Africa’s renewable energy leaders: Looking towards an energy secure continent
By Jessie Taylor As the global community intensifies efforts to combat climate change, several African nations are emerging as frontrunners in renewable energy and green innovation. South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, and Kenya are at the forefront, implementing ambitious projects and policies to harness their abundant natural resources and drive sustainable development. Africa’s transition to renewable energy is not just a climate imperative—it’s an economic and social necessity. Over 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa still lack access to electricity, accounting for 77% of the world’s unelectrified population, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). Meanwhile, energy demand is expected to grow by 60% by 2040 as Africa’s population rapidly increases and urbanisation accelerates. Renewable energy offers a sustainable solution to meet this demand, especially as the continent holds immense potential: Africa receives 10 TW of solar radiation, has vast wind corridors, and has significant geothermal reserves. Harnessing just a fraction of this could dramatically improve living standards while reducing dependence on expensive fossil fuels and vulnerable energy imports. Additionally, renewable energy could create over nine million jobs by 2030, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), stimulating local economies and reducing poverty. As the global community pivots toward net-zero emissions, Africa has a chance to leapfrog to cleaner technologies, develop green industries, and ensure energy security for future generations. The time to act is now—and renewables are at the heart of that transformation. South Africa: Transitioning from coal to renewables South Africa, traditionally reliant on coal, is undergoing a significant energy transformation. The South African Renewable Energy Master Plan aims to deploy at least 3 GW of new renewable energy capacity annually, increasing to 5 GW by 2030. This initiative is expected to create approximately 25,000 jobs in the renewable energy and storage sectors. The country is also exploring green hydrogen production, leveraging its vast solar and wind resources. International partnerships, such as the European Union’s €4.7 billion investment, support South Africa’s transition to cleaner energy sources. Egypt: Harnessing solar and wind power Egypt is capitalising on its solar and wind potential to become a regional energy hub. The government aims to increase the share of renewables in its electricity mix to 42% by 2030. A notable project is the 1.1 GW Obelisk solar and 100 MW/200 MWh battery storage facility, currently under construction by Scatec ASA. Additionally, Egypt is positioning itself as a leader in green hydrogen production, with plans to produce green hydrogen for under two dollars per kilogram by 2030. The Suez Canal Economic Zone has been identified as a hub for green hydrogen development, attracting investments from companies like Siemens and Scatec. Nigeria: Expanding access through mini-grids Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, faces challenges in electricity access, particularly in rural areas. To address this, the government has initiated projects to develop and operate 400 mini-grids and 50 MetroGrids across the country, aiming to improve electricity access for an estimated 1.5 to 2 million people. The country is also investing in solar home systems and hydropower projects, such as the Zungeru Hydropower Plant, to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Support from international organisations, including a planned $1 billion investment by the African Development Bank, is bolstering Nigeria’s renewable energy initiatives. Morocco: Advancing solar and green hydrogen projects Morocco has set an ambitious target to have renewables constitute 52% of its installed electricity capacity by 2030. The country is investing heavily in solar energy, with projects like the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex, one of the world’s largest concentrated solar power plants. In addition to solar, Morocco is focusing on green hydrogen, approving projects worth $32.5 billion. Partnerships with companies like TotalEnergies and Engie aim to produce ammonia from green hydrogen, positioning Morocco as a key player in the global green hydrogen market. Kenya: Leading in geothermal and off-grid solutions Kenya is a leader in geothermal energy, with facilities like the Olkaria I geothermal power plant contributing significantly to the national grid. The country aims to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030, focusing on geothermal, wind, and solar power. Kenya is investing in off-grid solar solutions to address electricity access in remote areas. Initiatives like the Intersolar Summit Africa in Nairobi highlight the country’s commitment to advancing photovoltaic technologies and energy storage solutions. The efforts of South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, and Kenya underscore Africa’s potential to lead in renewable energy and green innovation. By leveraging their natural resources and implementing forward-thinking policies, these countries are addressing their energy needs and contributing to global sustainability goals. Sources: Africa Trade News | AP News | Reuters | IOL | AGBI | Africa Exponent | IEA | IRENA
Overcoming talent scarcity: How South African businesses can overcome the skills shortage
By Daniella Frank & Susan Truter According to the Forvis Mazars C-Suite Barometer: Outlook 2025, business leaders are focusing on new or revised talent and retention strategies, which will play a major role in redefining organisations and creating opportunities to unlock growth, compete for market share, and sustain a competitive advantage. However, as talent rises as a strategic priority in 2025, just under half (43%) of organisations continue to report a struggle to recruit talented people, with the emphasis shifting to high-quality employees at more junior levels. Executives are reporting widespread difficulty in attracting and hiring the right talent and the bigger challenge now is in recruiting entry and mid-level talent, rather than senior talent as we saw in 2024. In some regions, C-suite executives are having an especially tough time finding the right people. Leaders in Africa report the most difficulty, with smaller businesses bearing the brunt of recruitment challenges, with more than half struggling to hire top talent compared to around a third of $1-billion+ organisations. Locally, businesses are struggling to attract and retain skilled professionals, despite rising unemployment. Findings from the report reveal that South Africa faces a dual challenge of high youth unemployment and a skills mismatch, particularly in tech and finance. From a talent acquisition standpoint, companies are seeking individuals who can effectively integrate artificial intelligence (AI) with business goals and utilise it adeptly. The success of AI and the businesses that embrace it is dependent on the skills of those who implement and operate it, because the technology will not replace professions like auditing. Instead, AI will enhance organisational efficiency and help distinguish the service offering by enhancing human skills and traits like understanding, trust, empathy, personal connections, and nuanced approaches to the specific cultures and needs of its people. Establishing trust with clients and effectively communicating findings and solutions are critical skills that AI cannot replicate. Our auditors are evolving into strategic advisors, concentrating on higher-value tasks such as interpreting complex data trends, focusing on areas of judgement and estimate, offering insights, and making risk-based decisions. As such, all staff, from the CEO to team members, need to enhance their proficiency in AI applications, which is why we have launched initiatives like our data school. However, finding, attracting and retaining people with these skills is a major challenge facing organisations in every sector. While a generous salary and benefits remain the top factor (96%) in the report, the salary premium already being paid in certain sectors is making it harder for organisations to put inflated offers on the table that are big enough to persuade candidates to join. As such, companies need to look at other means to secure the right candidates for the business. In this regard, learning and development opportunities (94%) continue to feature highly as important factors to attract and retain talent. To get the best people, organisations must recognise the importance of learning and development opportunities for employees and their business but may need to review with their people what they expect from their employer of choice. In addition, findings from the report suggest that companies need better employer branding, upskilling programmes, and flexible work models to remain competitive, as how companies structure work will impact talent attraction and retention. To make their organisations more attractive places to work, C-suite executives are focusing on flexibility and hybrid working. However, there is still a split in consensus regarding ways of working. While many are leaning into flexible working, another group is doubling down on standard working hours, with compliance with this traditional model still chosen by 37% of executives. In South Africa, certain industries like finance, law, and consulting are resisting full flexibility. The reality is that business leaders cannot bring back the working models used before COVID-19, and they cannot lead an organisation as they did even 10 years ago. If leaders expect and push everyone back to the office, they will struggle to retain their best people. Business leaders need to consider intergenerational differences in how and where people want to work. Among organisations that use hybrid working, the aim is to be as flexible as possible for employees, not ensure that everyone is in the office. Based on the findings shared in the report, three in five executives say that a key goal of hybrid working for their business is to “be fully flexible for our people”. Business leaders should view the workplace model as an opportunity to readdress their business strategies, listen to their people and create a sustainable working model that retains experienced workers and attracts new talent, states the report. Alongside this, a modern working environment with access to tech increased by three points (93%) in the 2025 report, with employee engagement emerging as another important factor. To create engagement, it’s important to give people the trust and responsibility to ensure they know that they matter. At Forvis Mazars, we do this through our own people surveys to capture a consensus of opinions as well as the more personal day-to-day discussions during development. This is a great way to establish engagement and receive more value in return from your people. Ultimately, the talent is out there, leaders just need to approach their needs differently. Talent today does not necessarily need or want to work from a specific location or office. The more flexible organisations can be with their people, the more opportunities they will have to attract the best talent when combined with other factors, such as top-paying jobs and access to the latest technologies. Daniella Frank is the HR Senior Manager & Susan Truter is the Audit Partner and Member of the Executive Committee for Talent at Forvis Mazars in South Africa.
It’s just good business – this is why businesses enter awards
By Koketso Mamabolo When we watch awards ceremonies we see the flashing lights, red carpets and dazzling attire. We see the celebrations, hear the acceptance speech and debate who we think should’ve won. But why do people and organisations enter awards? What are the benefits? While a study by the University of Leicester found that within three years of receiving an award businesses see increases in, amongst others things, sales and share value, it’s about more than just money. Researchers have found that while business excellence awards (BEAs) have an impact on the long-term performance of a business – projecting status and credibility – they also have the effect of encouraging good and sustainable business practices. Markets are crowded, talent is scarce, and BEAs provide an opportunity for businesses, from SMEs to multinational corporations, to set themselves apart from the competition and attract talent. Here we breakdown the four main reasons businesses enter awards: 1. Credibility Whether local, regional or international, business excellence awards are a way for organisations to build trust in their brand with the stamp of approval from a respected third party. In a crowded market, traditional approaches to marketing aren’t as effective as they used to be in boosting an organisation’s reputation. Awards are tied to criteria which provide quality assurance, ultimately enhancing the business’ reputation. This is particularly true for new and small businesses – especially when awards are more niche and focused on issues such as gender empowerment or focused on a particular region. Interestingly, researchers have found that in South Korea businesses who enter awards are often the ones who are most involved in corporate social responsibility work despite it not increasing the prospects of winning. Simply put, organisations that do good tend to enter awards. 2. Image repair The reach of social media and the rise of conscious consumers means that a businesses reputation can be damaged extensively and at a rapid pace. What awards offer is a chance to show the good that businesses are doing, particularly with regards to ethics, community investment and people management. In the case of CEOs and other business leaders, individual awards have the potential to enhance a businesses reputation through association. The more credible the leader, the more likely people are to view the business itself as more credible – it starts at the top, as the saying goes. 3. Publicity Awards and the ceremonies themselves bring with them a large amount of press coverage. As a finalist or winner, your achievements will be broadcast across on multiple channels, reaching a wide audience, which not only includes consumers but also investors, lenders and potential suppliers. Whether it’s the organisation that organises the awards programme, their sponsors, or the media, the results and build-up to the ceremony will be covered extensively, giving you another marketing platform. Customers and investors want to know they’re putting their time and money into the best that is on offer. Entering an award opens up the opportunity for investors and customers to see what your company is about and where you are compared to your competitors. 4. Motivation In their paper, The gold rush for Business excellence awards: A discursive practice approach, Brunel University’s Asante Shadrack highlights the motivational aspect of entering awards: “These awards events provide staff with something to look forward to after their hard work throughout the year and also give employees to aim for or look forward to at the beginning of the next working year.” With specific criteria that needs to be met, businesses can set targets accordingly, giving employees a sense of purpose. Even if the business does not win, they know how they need to improve and can learn from their competitors. Internally, employees are able to focus on what the organisation is doing well which builds a sense of pride. When it comes to people management, awards can also serve as a motivator for executives and senior management to work consciously to empower and support employees. Awards that recognise innovation in a particular sector help encourage the kind of behaviour which leads to innovation: taking risks and experimenting with creative solutions. Get ahead of the pack It is said that sprinters run faster times when they have people to compete against. They’re given a push knowing they have someone to measure themselves against. Entering an award allows business a chance to see where they stand in their industry and the broader business community. Competition does not mean peers cannot celebrate each other’s achievements. There’s an old African proverb: If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together. We’re continually moving forward and often don’t have time to pause and reflect on the journey we’ve taken. Sitting down to submit an application for an award and putting together a motivation, attempting to meet all the criteria, can be a great ‘stock-taking’ exercise. Award ceremonies themselves are an opportunity for the business community to come together. Entrepreneurs are able to network with people, inside and outside their sector, exchanging ideas, opinions, stories and contact details. In the end it’s not only about performing better and taking home the bragging rights. As we say here at Topco Media, It’s about inspiring the world to do good business. Are you a tech giant or startup looking to stand out from the rest? For over two decades Topco Media has been recognising and giving exposure to organisations doing good business. Be part of the Africa Tech Week awards. Enter now. Sources: Brunel University | Wiley
Imtiaz Sooliman – Gift of the Givers: Practicing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging on a global scale
By Fiona Wakelin “Best among people are those who benefit mankind” Early days Beginning his humanitarian work in Mozambique during the 1990s, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman raised significant funds in just five days to provide boreholes, medical supplies, and malaria medication for the country. His philanthropic work continued in Iraq and Bangladesh – and then the life-changing trip to Istanbul, Turkey, where he received an instruction from teacher Sufi Sheikh Muhammed Saffer Effendi al Jerrahi: “My son, you will form an organisation. The name will be Waqful Waqifin (the closest translation is ‘Gift of the Givers’). You will serve all people of all races, of all religions, of all colours, of all classes, of all political affiliations and of any geographical location. You will serve them unconditionally.” Imtiaz did not speak Turkish but understood the instruction. How was that possible? “When there is a meeting of hearts, language is not necessary.” After receiving this message from the spiritual leader, Imtiaz Sooliman, at the age of just 30, built the Gift of the Givers from humble beginnings into what has become the largest disaster response, non-governmental organisation of African origin on the African continent. He and the team live by the maxim: “Best among people are those who benefit mankind”. He established the organisation with family support – started in a small 12m² room with a fax machine. The first major project was during the Bosnian civil war in August 1992, delivering 32 containers of aid and creating the world’s first containerised mobile hospital in 1993, including surgery theaters, ICU, X-ray, and other medical units. CNN reported the mobile hospital as ‘equal to any of the best hospitals in Europe’. The dedicated team is committed to addressing crisis situations, showcasing innovative problem-solving and the importance of partnerships across sectors. We met at the Arabella Estate after a few months of planning – the Gift of the Givers are in big demand (not surprisingly) and it took a while for us to both be in the same province at the same time. The time flew by and it was so refreshing, and so easy to speak with this ego-free, quick, solutions-orientated, energetic, humanity-first human being. During our conversation he had 4 cell phones on the arm chair, all on silent. There are so many disasters happening all the time around the globe at any given time, I asked Imtiaz how they choose where to go – and where the funds come from: “If a country has hit something major, the head of state must come on world TV and announce they have a problem. Only then will we respond. But sometimes before he or she makes the statement and we hear about, say, a tsunami in Indonesia, an earthquake in Haiti, an earthquake in Nepal, a typhoon in the Philippines, I put my teams on standby. Usually Africa comes first. Money matters? “My spiritual teacher said, ‘You will never need to look for money. People will come to you. You’ll never have to ask for money.’ We never have to go to people to ask for funds. We have no need for fund raisers in our organisation. “Things just happen. Everything falls into place. The teacher said, ‘things will work out for you’ – and they do”. Knysna fire response and Cape Water crisis – diversity in action The Gift of the Givers responded to the 2017 Knysna fires with medical teams, food for firefighters, and essential supplies and set up a warehouse operation in the Checkers parking lot to coordinate massive aid distribution. This was diversity in action with teams of all backgrounds working together. They responded to the Western Cape water crisis by drilling 238 boreholes at a cost of R19-million, saving farming communities and livestock; and successfully navigated the flood response by coordinating multiple stakeholders, with partnerships across political parties, race, and class to reach isolated communities. CSI, ethics, economic philosophy and personal values We spoke about how Corporate Social Investment (CSI) is evolving from ‘ticking boxes’ to meaningful engagement and corporates in South Africa are developing a purposeful CSI focus: “CSI – we don’t just tick the box anymore. Now the CEOs call and ask for us to take them and their staff to be on site to see. To feel what it is like to be on the ground. Big companies like Sibanye-Stillwater, Bonitas, FNB, see first-hand where the CSI money is going. They feel the words of the people. “And we are growing. Now because we have got a new thing called virtual. They call you any time. On 31st December 2024, afterhours, the FNB guys called – ‘We’ve got all these fires in Cape Town. On the 2nd of January, the money will be in your account’. “ And when you think of COVID, the ethical business practices of keeping staff employed – ultimately benefitted the economy”. I had to ask about his take on the ramifications of the Trump administration withdrawing funding from Africa: “I am very happy about it. We should have cut ties long ago. We don’t need to have a begging bowl. We are self-sufficient and have the resources to manage our own needs. Companies are already calling to see how we can fill the gap. America is one country in the world. There are 199 others and we are about to sign an agreement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations”. And what gives him joy? “The relief of suffering – a mother feeding a child, restoring sight to the blind – when a person has cataracts and they open and they can see. Or they can hear you because of a hearing aid. It’s priceless. Absolutely, absolutely priceless. “When I was in Somalia I saw a child who had been bed-ridden for 8 months and sepsis was creeping into the bone. Nobody could fix it. I brought my doctors from South Africa. They did the operation in 20 minutes. The father gets up and says, I like to appreciate you.
Empowering ourselves: The past is past but the future is not here yet!
By Professor Bonang Mohale, Chancellor of the University of the Free State After World War II, in a new age of empire, great powers aimed to carve up the planet and nations pledged to create a more equal and law-abiding world. Now, Russia, China and the USA are returning to an older model in which powerful countries impose their will. Nearly five years since the COVID-19 pandemic upended the global economy, growth is slow but stable, inflation has gradually declined in advanced economies and trade trends have turned positive. Despite this, there remain challenges such as high public debt burdens, ongoing geoeconomic tensions and the potential impact of industrial policies on smaller countries. Poverty reduction is possible China has lifted over 800 million people out of poverty since the late 1970s. This is the largest reduction in inequality in modern history by focusing on no more than six economic reforms, namely economic growth (which grew rapidly after 1978 with an average annual growth rate of over 9%); infrastructure investment (invested in roads, railways, water supply and electricity); education and health (improved access to education, health care and social security); targeted policies (targeted the most poverty stricken areas with public policies); data collection (used data to identify the poorest areas and their needs and public support and mobilised the public to assess the status of each household). China’s poverty reduction efforts have helped the world achieve the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development goals. South Africa’s tax base According to the latest tax statistics from the National Treasury and the South African Revenue Service (SARS), 490 676 South Africans earned over R1-million in the 2024/25 financial year. This figure represents 6.7% of the country’s 7.4 million registered taxpayers and marks a significant increase of 82 000 individuals compared to the previous financial year when 408 288 South Africans earned above this threshold. These millionaires, who cover around 50% of all assessed income tax paid in the 2024 tax year, demonstrate the country’s progressive tax regime is in full effect, with the majority of income tax being paid by the country’s richest individuals at R2.2-trillion in gross tax revenue – R87-billion or 4.2% more than in the prior year. Personal Income Tax (PIT) revenue remained the biggest contributor to the tax haul, accounting for 35.7% – R641-billion of the total tax collected. Just 1 660 182 individuals, a mere 2.6% of the country’s 64 million people contribute 76.2% of all personal income tax. The situation is equally concerning in the corporate sector where only 1 051 companies, representing 0.1% of the total, pay 72.3% of all company income tax. Over 30% of the population, approximately 19.2 million people, currently rely on social grants, a figure projected to grow to 19.7 million by 2026/27. This means that about 12% of South Africans who pay income tax are supporting a social safety net for nearly half the population! Youth unemployment Youth unemployment has been at catastrophic levels since ‘two weeks in July 2021’ at 74.9 percent! Four years later, it is still hovering at 60.2% compared to Spain’s 26.6; France 20.5; Italy 17.7; China 17.1; Turkey 15.8; Canada 14.4; UK 14.4; USA 9; Australia 8.8; Netherlands 8.7; Germany 6.5; South Korea 5.5; Japan 3.2 and Switzerland 2.7. It is Mosibudi Mangena who opines that, ‘poverty and inequality are a menacing reality in South Africa. Unless the state and the citizens do something to share the fruits of the economy, things might unravel very soon. It is simply unsustainable to have wealth concentrated in the hands of a minority race whilst the vast majority wallow in abject poverty’. Human rights Human rights are those basic and fundamental rights to which every person – for the simple reason of being human – is entitled. These rights are inalienable – a person has them forever and they cannot be taken away. The natural rights of South Africans received no protection before the country became a constitutional democracy in 1994. Chapter 3 of the Interim Constitution introduced legally protected fundamental rights to South Africa for the first time. Now fundamental human rights are entrenched in Chapter 2 – Sections 7 to 39 – of the 1996 Constitution. The Bill of Rights is arguably the part of the Constitution that has had the greatest impact on life in this country. As the first words of this chapter say: ‘This Bill of Rights is a cornerstone of democracy in South Africa. It enshrines the rights of all people in our country and affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality and freedom.’ It has also been the source of the majority of the groundbreaking rulings the Constitutional Court has handed down. In an address to the South African Constitutional Assembly on 8 May 1996, the day of the adoption of the final Constitution, President Rolihlahla N. Mandela declared that ‘now it is universally acknowledged that unity and reconciliation are written into the hearts of millions of South Africans. They are an indelible principle of our founding pledge – ‘the glowing fire of our New Patriotism’. At the same occasion, Deputy President Thabo M. Mbeki asserted that the Constitution ‘constitutes an unequivocal statement that we refuse to accept that our Africanness shall be defined by our race, colour, gender or historical origins’. Constitutional patriotism The University of the Witwatersrand’s Elsa Huyssteen reminds us that this is a patriotism of new South Africans who do not belong on the basis of race or ethnicity but on the basis of a shared loyalty to a constitutional state and a commitment to national unity, reconciliation and human rights. The creation of such a ‘constitutional patriotism’ is intended to establish the legitimacy of the outcome of the transition as well as to promote national unity and reconciliation, both seen as crucial to the consolidation of democracy in South Africa. Constitutional patriotism is seen as capable of meeting these challenges to the consolidation of democracy in South Africa as it ensures that the principles and values
Five ways to green your home on a budget
By Jessie Taylor As homeowners battle rising energy costs and increasing power outages, many turn to energy solutions such as generators and inverters. While these may keep the lights running, they still come with a cost to the environment. Renewable energy, such as solar heating, may be more attractive for those seeking a greener solution to meet their home’s energy needs. But unfortunately, these alternatives can come with a price tag beyond the average homeowner’s budget. However, there are affordable options that every family can implement to make their home greener. Here are five ways to green your home on a budget: 1. Reduce your energy consumption There are several ways to reduce your energy consumption with minimal cost. This includes tricks such as fitting a timer or adding insulation to your geyser. You can also replace outdoor lighting with solar lights to reduce the energy you use and replace indoor light bulbs with energy-saving ones. If you have some budget, consider making a few strategic changes to your home, such as installing infrared heaters, which can save up to 50% on energy costs, or connecting a solar heat pump to your geyser. 2. Refit your home If you plan to renovate your home, it is the ideal time to include some greener choices. Consider using eco-friendly flooring like bamboo, which is becoming the go-to alternative for wooden floors. Also, consider improving your home’s insulation to reduce the amount you spend on heating your home in winter and cooling it in summer. One way to insulate your home is to include eco-friendly cellulose-fibre ceiling insulation. When repainting your home, change to low volatile organic compound (VOC) paints. VOC are some of the most harmful chemicals found in paint. Changing to low-VOC paint will reduce the number of contaminants in the ozone layer, groundwater and landfills, and it also has less toxic emissions and less impact on air quality. 3. Become water wise South Africa is a water scarce country and every drop of water you can save at home counts. Fortunately, there are a few affordable ways to save water in your home. You may consider a solution for your toilet that only allows flushing when the toilet handle is held down, which is easy to add to your existing cistern. You could also invest in water-efficient shower heads in your bathrooms. If you have a budget, you could also invest in a greywater system or rain tank. Rainwater tanks are an excellent alternative for watering gardens, and with the inclusion of a cleaning device, they could even be used to supply water to your swimming pool or taps. Greywater systems can divert water from your bath, shower or basin for irrigation. These systems could reduce your water bill by a third. 4. Reduce your waste There are affordable ways to reduce your impact on the planet by reducing the amount of waste your home generates. The most effortless change is using environmentally friendly detergents, dishwashing liquid and washing powder. You can also reduce your waste through recycling. Numerous companies will collect and sort your recyclable waste, but you can also sort them yourself and drop them at your local municipal depot. Food waste is another area where you can easily make affordable changes. Consider starting a worm farm at home to generate compost for your garden. Not only will your plants thank you, but you will also be part of diverting a fifth of all the waste that goes into landfill sites. 5. Green gardening Gardens are an area that can significantly make your home more environmentally friendly. A garden helps purify the air, reduce noise pollution, and cool your home in summer. You can set aside space for a vegetable garden, which will help reduce your food bill at the end of the month. In addition, using indigenous plants reduces your water usage and provides a home for indigenous insects and birds. If you’ve got some funds set aside, consider investing in a natural pond to ensure your garden has a vibrant ecosystem of dragonflies, toads and other wildlife. Some great solar options of filters and aerators will ensure you don’t increase your electricity bill. Sources: IOL | Private Property | Reman
Be in the middle of the action: Why you need to attend a tech conference
By Topco Marketing The tech industry in Africa is buzzing with innovation but how can you get involved in this dynamic ecosystem? Whether you’re a B2B startup, multinational corporation, investor, policymaker, or academic, you’re always looking for a way to stay on the cutting-edge of one of the most impactful industries. Here are six reasons why you should attend a tech conference in 2025. 1. Keep your team inspired and motivated Attending conferences in the heart of Africa’s booming tech scene is more than just a routine – it’s a journey that will keep your team inspired and motivated. Hearing from successful entrepreneurs can be a powerful boost, pulling your team outside the office walls and into an environment that breathes innovation. It’s an excellent opportunity for employees to gain a fresh perspective on their roles, the company’s mission, and the challenges that lie ahead. 2. Invest in knowledge and skills development Compared to formal training programmes, conference tickets are often more cost-effective, giving you valuable insights that can help to alter the trajectory of your company. A single idea learned at a conference can sometimes have a substantial impact. In short, consider attending conferences as a strategic business investment that can enrich your team and positively impact your bottom line. 3. Learn from other leaders Targeted conferences, like B2B conferences, are hubs of innovation, where entrepreneurs and experts shape the continent’s future. They are an excellent way to expand your network, gain insights, and exchange best practices with peers and business partners. Attending conferences in Africa is an absolute must if you want to meet new prospects and develop long-lasting business relationships. You can gather feedback, forge meaningful relationships, and gain valuable insights that can help you grow and stay ahead of the competition. As a sponsor, exhibitor, speaker, or attendee, you can target key accounts, engage in post-talk conversations, or connect at booths. There is no better way to establish and maintain customer relationships than by meeting them face-to-face. 4. Find new talent You could meet talented professionals who can add value to your company. Tech conferences are highly focused, which increases your chances of finding individuals who align with your company’s needs. Whether you’re looking for engineers, sales professionals, or marketers, tech conferences provide an ideal platform to connect with potential employees who share your industry interests. 5. Meet attendees from around the world The tech conferences in Africa are no longer confined to the continent’s borders, as businesses from Europe and Asia are increasingly showing interest in attending these events. With a thriving tech ecosystem and numerous opportunities, these conferences provide an entry point for international companies looking to establish a foothold in the African market. For European businesses, exploring partnerships and collaborations in Africa presents untapped potential and access to new markets. These conferences offer a firsthand look at the innovative solutions emerging from the continent, enabling European companies to diversify their portfolios and stay ahead in a competitive global landscape. Networking with African startups and industry leaders can lay the groundwork for mutually beneficial ventures, fostering innovation and cross-cultural collaboration. Likewise, Asian countries with a reputation for tech prowess are keen to expand their businesses to Africa. Attending these conferences allows Asian companies to understand the local dynamics, explore investment opportunities, and build strategic alliances in the continent. The events provide a platform for knowledge exchange, enabling Asian companies to leverage their technological expertise while contributing to the growth and development of Africa’s tech ecosystem. In essence, these conferences serve as melting pots for diverse perspectives, creating an environment where European and Asian businesses can engage with their African counterparts, share insights and explore opportunities for collaborative ventures. The potential for cross-continental partnerships is immense, and these events act as catalysts for building bridges between continents, creating a global tech landscape that thrives on diversity and innovation. The stage is set for a collaborative future, where businesses from Europe and Asia converge in Africa, embracing the opportunities that these tech conferences bring to the forefront. The 2025 Sentech Africa Tech Week Summit promises to offer a vibrant and innovative atmosphere, with opportunities to gain inspiration, knowledge, and make valuable connections. Embrace this chance to be part of Africa’s tech revolution and constructively contribute to the growth of the tech industry in Africa. Get your tickets here.
From start-up to scaling: The growth goal of South African small businesses
By Magdaleen Scott, Managing Director at KVD Communications Starting a small business is a significant milestone; however, the transition to scaling it presents a unique set of challenges that many entrepreneurs often underestimate. While South African visionaries aspire to transform their start-ups into flourishing enterprises, the reality is that scaling demands meticulous strategic planning, effective marketing, and an acute awareness of the ever-evolving business landscape. To put this into perspective, consider that approximately 66% of small businesses in South Africa fail within the first five years, with nearly 50% not surviving beyond their inaugural year. This stark reality not only highlights the need for innovative solutions but also underlines the necessity of a cohesive growth strategy aligned with the Theory of Constraints, as articulated by Eliyahu Goldratt in his seminal work, The Goal. This theory posits that every organisation has at least one constraint that limits its performance. Identifying and addressing these limitations is crucial for long-term success. In the start-up phase, an entrepreneur’s vision must align seamlessly with exceptional execution, as identifying market gaps, developing compelling offerings, and establishing a strong brand are foundational steps in this journey. However, many ventures stumble at this stage largely due to a lack of scalability in their business models and little understanding of an evolving economy and market entry dynamics. Without these insights, business owners often struggle to grasp the needs and behaviours of their target audience, hindering their ability to create sustainable models. Additionally, a distinctive brand identity is crucial for differentiation in a competitive market, while delivering exceptional customer experiences is vital for building trust and credibility, both of which are essential for fostering repeat business and driving future growth. Navigating the growth stage is a pivotal moment for any business that has begun to gain traction. At this juncture, the primary focus must shift towards enhancing sales, expanding market reach, and optimising operational efficiency. However, it is often during this important phase that many organisations encounter significant roadblocks. Limitations in resources, ineffective marketing strategies, and an inability to adapt to the ever-changing consumer landscape frequently hinder progress. This is where the Theory of Constraints becomes essential; identifying and addressing the specific ‘bottlenecks’ within your operations is crucial for unlocking growth potential. By recognising these constraints and developing targeted strategies to overcome them, businesses can not only navigate the prevailing challenges but also position themselves for sustained success in the marketplace. We have to remain agile and responsive, continually assessing our capabilities to drive scalability and achieve our growth objectives. The role of marketing in scaling a business cannot be overstated, particularly for small enterprises striving to make their mark. Strategic marketing can serve as a transformative force, propelling businesses toward enhanced brand awareness, lead generation, and ultimately positioning them as industry leaders. It is essential to recognise the importance of investing wisely in marketing strategies that drive growth. In South Africa, where access to connectivity continues to rise, establishing a digital presence is non-negotiable. Businesses that adeptly leverage digital platforms — such as social media, search engine marketing, and content marketing — gain a distinct competitive advantage. Furthermore, adopting a data-driven approach allows businesses to harness customer insights effectively, refining their marketing strategies and enhancing engagement. Don’t underestimate the influence of public relations and thought leadership initiatives – it’s still one of the best spheres in marketing strategies for establishing credibility through media placements which amplifies brand authority. According to Goldratt, if resources are limited, marketing investments must be strategically targeted to address the most pressing constraints within the organisation. By focusing on overcoming these challenges, businesses can ensure their marketing efforts not only resonate but also contribute to long-term growth. To achieve successful scaling, it is imperative to automate and streamline operations by investing in technology that enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and improves service delivery. This is also the time to look at expanding your customer base through the exploration of new markets, forging strategic partnerships, and adopting innovative distribution channels is essential to broadening your reach. Furthermore, investing in your team is not just an option—it is a necessity. A business is only as strong as its people, so upskilling employees and making strategic hiring decisions are crucial for laying the foundation for long-term success. We must identify and address ‘what’ inhibits growth, ensuring that every area of the business operates at its full potential as we move beyond the small business status. The South African market, while presenting unique challenges, also offers incredible opportunities for entrepreneurs who are willing to embrace change and invest strategically in their brand’s growth. We can identify and overcome the barriers that hinder progress, ensuring that we not only navigate the complexities of the market but also capitalise on the strengths of our dynamic environment. In this landscape, success belongs to those who are committed to evolving and redefining their approach at every turn. At KVD Communications, we are dedicated to assisting businesses in navigating this critical transition through strategic communication, brand positioning, and marketing excellence. By establishing a solid foundation, embracing digital marketing, and optimising operations, small businesses can not only scale but thrive in today’s economic landscape—moving beyond mere survival to achieving enduring success.
Let’s debate about BEE – but with respect and nation-building responsibility
By Tshediso Matona (Commissioner: B-BBEE Commission) For me as the Commissioner for Black Economic Empowerment, a positive factor of the current sharp spotlight on BEE is the louder and widening conversation ensuing in the country about BEE policy and legislation. When BEE and transformation are understood as a tool to correct racial inequality that our economy inherited from apartheid and colonialism, it becomes clear that it is a matter of existential importance which we do need conversation about, because transformation is an ongoing project; a work-in-progress. Equally, it is a matter that deserves to be engaged with respect, integrity and nation-building responsibility, because it is about our painful past and our desired future; as such, our debates must be fruitful and take the country forward. Moreover, whatever US President Trump’s quarrel is with BEE, the events ensuing from it serve to affirm to South Africans that transformation is our domestic, sovereign issue, rooted in our circumstances, and best answered by none other than ourselves. This moment prompts us to recall that it is we, the people of South Africa, black and white, who proclaimed in our Constitution that “We Recognise the injustices of the past” and “Believe that SA belongs to all who live in it” and that we commit to “Heal divisions of the past and establish a society based on social justice”; and to this end to adopt “laws and other measures to advance persons disadvantaged by unfair discrimination”, including the use of preferential procurement. Any ideas that lower the bar of our values and ideals seek to place us in reverse-gear as a country when we ought to be accelerating forward. Ironically, BEE follows in the footsteps of affirmative action, a policy born out of the self-same US. It is based on the principle that to achieve social justice, governments are enjoined to take proactive and targeted measures for the socio-economic upliftment and inclusion of certain population groups, as this would not be achieved by market forces on their own. This is practised in many countries and has evolved into formal global policies, such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, or the Sustainable Development Goals under the UN, and the emerging corporate Environment, Social and Governance standards. My view is that the newly emerging challenges against BEE, whether emanating within the country or sponsored from outside, are in fact an opportunity for us to deepen and discipline our dialogue about transformation as a nation. In doing so we need to be honest that transformation is an unfinished business, and to find each other about the imperative for changing the status-quo of living with the worst inequality in the world. To this end, the correct place to proceed from is accepting that BEE was created as a tool to solve the inherited problem of a racially skewed ownership, opportunities, and participation in the economy. At the same time, it is acknowledged that BEE as a transformation tool might not be working perfectly, and indeed many shortcomings and loopholes about BEE are being encountered. But this cannot justify this being mischievously exploited by those who now pretend that the problem for which BEE seeks to solve is no longer an issue. Such mischief amounts to a negation of our collective duty to implement the Constitution and correct the economic injustice inherited from our past Read the full story in the 24th edition of Impumelelo: Top Empowerment and find out what the numbers say about transformation in South Africa.
Leveraging the full spectrum of human potential: The representation of women in STEM
By Dr Mmaki Jantjies As we celebrate Freedom month, it is important to acknowledge the progress made in ensuring the economic participation of women in South Africa, particularly in the STEM sector (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). The country’s history of working towards a free and just society has been underpinned by the important role that women have played in ensuring equality for all. In response, significant milestones have been achieved with policies enabling greater access to opportunities for women. The role of diversity in the STEM sector is vital to ensure national advancement. By leveraging the full spectrum of human potential, nations like South Africa will not only unlock innovation but also build a more equitable and prosperous future for all. Considering the significant strides made in advancing female participation in STEM sectors, South Africa still experiences the under-representation of women in key areas today, particularly in STEM leadership positions. What then has led to this “leaky pipeline”, and what initiatives are important in addressing these issues? Female representation in STEM The 2023 Report of the Engineering Council of South Africa underlined that only 14% of registered engineers were women. A 2024 skills survey conducted by the Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA) further explored the representation of women in the ICT sector. The survey found that although 39.5% of employees were female, only 5% had leadership positions in ICT companies. I recently had the opportunity of joining the launch of the South African chapter of the OWSD (Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World), an organisation describing itself as an “international forum to unite eminent women scientists from the developing and developed worlds with the objective of strengthening their role in the development process and promoting their representation in scientific and technological leadership”. The programme provides the mentorship, training and support necessary to ensure a consistent pipeline of women in STEM in the country. Supported by the National Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the OWSD event highlights the continuing need for tailored interventions to support the participation of women in key STEM areas. Early interventions in particular were highlighted as being key to facilitating stronger representation of women in the workforce. The local interventions highlighted below outline the key issues involved in working towards addressing greater gender equity in accessing employment opportunities: 1. Limited early exposure and encouragement One fundamental obstacle to increasing women’s involvement in STEM is the lack of early exposure and ways of encouraging participation. According to the 2021 data from the Council on Higher Education, female enrolment in STEM programmes at universities stood at around 40%. In line with this low number, the lack of young girls taking up studies in STEM is often attributed to lack of exposure. To address these shortcomings, initiatives aimed at foundational education through interventions like the Department of Basic Education’s TechnoGirl Programme. This initiative has been instrumental in ensuring early exposure, reaching over 30 000 girls from disadvantaged schools and fostering their interest in pursuing STEM careers. The programme is a partnership between Uweso Consulting in collaboration with UNICEF and the Department of Basic Education. By selecting high school girls from underserved communities, the programme has opened doors to STEM mentorship, skills development, and job shadowing Another key grassroot intervention has been the Department of Science and Innovation’s National Science Week (NSW). By strategically targeting youth, educators and the general public, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, NSW supports grassroot science literacy. It has programmes which demystify science while showcasing local innovations in those too young to be scientists. This annual event has demonstrated tangible impact by consistently engaging thousands of South Africans annually, enhancing STEM awareness and inspiring youth to pursue STEM careers. 2. Barriers to access and participation in higher education Data from the 2020 Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) study has revealed that students from lower socio-economic backgrounds have dropout rates up to 40% higher than their more affluent peers, primarily due to financial issues. Although both financial and systemic barriers have significantly impeded women’s access to tertiary STEM education, progress is now being made with targeted funding interventions acting to support the advancement of women in STEM. In responding to these challenges, the National Research Foundation (NRF) has set out to increase female participation in STEM through various initiatives. In 2022, over 60% of National Research Foundation-funded postgraduate students were women within specific STEM categories, demonstrating a clear move towards gender-sensitive funding. Programmes such as the black academic advancement programmes have also been introduced by the NRF to provide grants to black female academics, in order to increase scholarly output while increasing the number of research students supported by grants. Public private partnerships (PPP), such as the Telkom Centres of Excellence (CoE) based at 14 South African universities, are further examples of partnerships supporting the postgraduate STEM skills development of over 3 500 students. With this programme running over 25 years, Telkom and several ICT organisations have partnered with government in establishing centres at participating universities. These research centres have provided students with access to cutting-edge technology, resources and mentorship, both fostering innovation and contributing to the growth of the ICT sector in South Africa. The Telkom CoE programme supports postgraduate students and research projects, effectively building a pipeline of skilled professionals to meet the evolving demands of the telecommunications and technology industries in South Africa. 3. Lack of female role models and mentorship Globally, the 2023 Global Gender Gap Report states that women comprise 29.2% of the STEM workforce across the 146 nations evaluated, while locally women make up 23% of employed individuals in STEM occupations in South Africa. Organised STEM industry networks are therefore key to improving access to visibility and mentorship opportunities to increase representation. Examples of such in the STEM field are the organisation named Women in Mining South Africa (WiMSA) that offers networking, mentorship and career guidance. Meanwhile, the South African Women in Engineering (SAWomEng) focuses on professional development and creating a supportive community for