Chekkit, Blackcopper, 43 Other startups make long-list of finalists for 2023 AfricaTech Awards

The top 45 startups have been long-listed for the second edition of the AfricaTech Awards, a pan-African initiative celebrating enterprises driving innovation and development impact throughout the continent. The list was revealed on Thursday, April 27, by Viva Technologies and the International Financial Corporation (IFC).

Trevor Noah stars in a new TV commercial for KFC

KFC has announced the release of a new TV commercial for a national breakfast campaign, as well as its collaboration with renowned comedian Trevor Noah. Six months after leaving the Daily Show, Noah went to South Africa to help KFC launch its national breakfast push, asking Mzanzi, "Where did breakfast Chicken go?"

Emirates opens new ‘City Check-In and Travel Store’ in Dubai International Financial Centre

Emirates is poised to open a new City Check-in and Travel Store in the heart of Dubai's bustling financial sector, allowing clients to book travel, check-in for flights, drop luggage, shop for travel needs, and save time at the airport. Travellers can get free access to and discounts on lifestyle amenities. The cutting-edge facility, housed in the prestigious ICD Brookfield Place in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), will open on April 27.

Namibia International Energy Conference Officially Opens

The fifth edition of the Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) began today, April 26 with a welcome address by Ndapwilapo Selma Shimutwikeni, Managing Director of the strategic advisory firm - and founder and convener of the NIEC - RichAfrica Consultancy. The conference aimed to shine a light on Namibia's energy sector while enhancing collaboration, knowledge, and investment linkages to drive Africa's energy landscape as a catalyst for socioeconomic development.

MultiChoice Talent Factory alumni receive five nominations for 2023 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards

Five alumni of the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF), an entertainment-industry training and talent-development project, have been nominated in three categories for this year's Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA).

WhatsApp now allows you to use the same account on multiple phones

WhatsApp users are no longer limited to using their account on only one phone. The Meta-owned messaging service has announced the expansion of its multi-device feature, which previously allowed you to access and send messages from multiple Android tablets, browsers, or PCs in addition to your primary phone. "One WhatsApp account, now across many phones," the service says of the functionality, which it says will be available to everyone in the coming weeks.

37% of users in Nigeria lost money from an incident involving digital payments

According to the Kaspersky Digital Payment survey, 37% of Nigerians have lost money as a result of hazards when using online banking and mobile wallet services. As a result of these incidents, the majority of consumers (97%) reported losses of up to $1,000 equivalent, with 3% reporting losses larger than $1,000 equivalent.

Vantage Capital Exits Dynamic Bedding

Vantage Capital, Africa's largest mezzanine loan fund manager, has completed its investment in Dynamic Bedding, a leading South African specialist bed manufacturer and retailer. Vuna Partners, a black-empowered private equity fund manager, and senior management have acquired the company.

ADVAN lists members of NMDT as GARM kicks off operations

Having announced penultimate week that the umbrella body of advertisers in Nigeria, the Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN) was willing to advance further the course of marketing and advertising in the country, the names of the Nigerian Marketing Development Team members have been unveiled.

AfDB, ILX sign partnership to mobilize European institutional capital for sustainable projects across Africa

The new agreement will mobilize institutional investor capital in support of AfDB’s private sector loan operations focused on African countries; partnership to support the UN SDGs and climate finance-related targets, and enable investments in Africa for ILX’s European pension fund participants. AfDB is strongly committed to mobilizing more private sector finance across Africa; ILX is a key partner in catalysing new SDG and Climate focused investments.

Vertiv to Showcase Latest Innovations at Datacloud Global Congress 2023

Vertiv, a global provider of critical digital infrastructure and continuity solutions, will showcase its latest innovations at Datacloud Global Congress, the premier leadership gathering for senior executives in the ICT space, on April 25-27, 2023 at Grimaldi Forum, Monaco. Vertiv will be presenting advancements in power, cooling and IT infrastructure solutions for data centres at its stand #42, offering visitors the opportunity to discuss challenges with its team of experts and experience its innovative technology firsthand.

Microsoft is removing Twitter from its advertising platform

Elon Musk's attempts to make Twitter profitable have hit a new snag, as Microsoft has chosen to exclude the social media business from its advertising platform beginning next week.

Human Capital Africa launches the Foundational Learning Scorecard in Malawi

The Human Capital Africa (HCA) team, led by founder Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has completed a seven-day mission to Malawi to formally launch the Malawi Foundational Learning Scorecard, an accountability and analytical tool to improve the literacy and numeracy skills of children. Three elements make up the Foundational Learning Scorecard: a macro indicator scorecard, a micro indicator tracker, and an adoption tracker that tracks managerial and pedagogical inputs from the ministry. 

Owen Omogiafo, Godrey Ogbechie, 91 Others Make the List of 2023 Africa.com Definitive Women CEOs

Godrey Ogbechie, Group Executive Director, Rainoil, Owen Omogiafo, President and Group CEO, Transcorp Plc and 91 others made the 2023 Africa.com Definitive List of Women CEOs, sponsored by Standard Bank Group. The list was revealed on April 19, 2023 during a virtual event. No other list of African businesswomen running big businesses is grounded in this type of quantifiable research. The list is unique in that it is based on data-driven research, with data provided by Bloomberg.

Third Edition of Global Black Impact Summit to Hold in Dubai from 30 November to 1 December

The most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai will play host to the third edition of the Global Black Impact Summit that will take place from 30 November to 1 December 2023, the Black Impact Foundation has confirmed.

9mobile CEO Juergen Peschel to deliver Keynote at the Fintech Cybersecurity & Fraud Summit 2023

Chief Executive Officer of 9mobile, Juergen Peschel, has been listed as one of the eminent personalities to speak at the Fintech Cybersecurity & Fraud Summit 2023 scheduled to hold on April 27, 2023 at the Civic Center Lagos. Peschel will deliver a keynote address titled, 'The Role of Cybersecurity in a FinTech Regulatory Digital Economy'.

Yellow Card's Payments API Opens Doors for Businesses to Access African Markets

Yellow Card, Africa's largest cryptocurrency exchange, has announced the release of its new Payments API. This new tool will allow businesses to onboard and offboard clients via Yellow Card's crypto rails.

Tech-enabled healthcare platform, CloudClinic, unveiled in Lagos

CloudClinic Limited (CCL), a digital healthcare service company, has launched its cloud-based healthcare solution called CloudClinic to facilitate virtual consultation between patients and licensed medical practitioners. The platform makes it possible for anyone to access affordable health care from the comfort of their homes, offices or on the go with the aid of their internet-enabled devices.

ChatGPT Applications in Media Intelligence: Its Benefits and Limitations

By Philip Odiakose

As technology advances, media intelligence has become an increasingly important service for brands to stay ahead of the competition. One of the latest developments in this area is the application of ChatGPT, a language model developed by OpenAI, in media intelligence. ChatGPT has the ability to analyze vast amounts of data and provide insights in real-time, making it an attractive tool for businesses looking to improve their media strategy. In this article, we will explore the benefits and limitations of using ChatGPT in media intelligence.

PrimePay Disburses over 1000 Loans in Six Months of Operations, secures FCCPC Approval

…promises Nigerians smarter digitally driven financial products

Prime Avis Investment Services Limited also known as “PrimePay”, a digital lending company, has announced that it has successfully disbursed 1000 loans in less than 6 months of operations this is coming on the heels of the company’s recent approval from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), which will further help boost its operations.

Why Pepsi is Changing Its Logo and Visual Identity

The iconic global brand Pepsi is introducing a new logo and visual identity system, the first change to the iconic Pepsi globe logo in 14 years. Pepsi will unveil its refreshed look in North America this autumn, in time for the brand's 125th anniversary, and globally in 2024, ushering in the brand's next age with a forward-thinking approach.

Bolt Food increases presence in Lagos, expands service to inner cities

Bolt Food has announced its expansion into inner cities in Lagos enlarging its coverage in the state and delivering on its promise to continue providing easier access to daily essentials. The leading mobility platform launched its food delivery vertical in Lagos in 2021 which provides customers with competitively affordable and efficient food delivery service while offering good working conditions to food couriers and profit to restaurant partners.

New Security Features: Account Protect, Device Verification, Automatic Security Codes

At WhatsApp, we believe that your messages should be as private and secure as an in-person conversation. Protecting your personal messages with default end-to-end encryption is the foundation of that security, and we'll never stop building new features to give you extra layers of privacy, and more control over your messages. 

Pompigne-Mognard appointed as founding Advisory Board member of Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa Conference

Founder and Chairman of APO Group, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, has been invited to join the Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa Advisory Board as a founding member. The inaugural Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa conference, in partnership with the Kingdom of Morocco, will be held in Marrakesh in June 2023.

OPEC Confirms Participation at South Sudan Energy Summit

Dr. Ayed S. Al-Qahtani, Director of the Research Division for the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), has confirmed participation as a speaker at the sixth edition of South Sudan Oil & Power (SSOP) 2023, taking place from June 14-16 in Juba.

Afreximbank to hold 30th Annual Meetings in Accra, Ghana, from 18-21 June 2023

The 30th Annual Meetings of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) will take place in Accra, Ghana, from 18 to 21 June 2023. The event will mark the high point of the Bank’s year-long 30th-anniversary celebrations, under the theme “Delivering the Vision. Building Prosperity for Africans”.

ADVAN to unveil NMDT, GARM at 2023 ADVAN Ignites

The Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN), has concluded plans to unveil two key sub-bodies for the Association namely the Nigerian Marketing Development Team (NMDT) and the Nigerian Chapter of Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM) at the 2023 ADVAN Ignites scheduled to hold on April 19th, 2023 in Lagos.

GTCO Plc Releases 2022 Full year Audited Result, Reports Profit Before Tax of ₦214.2billion and FY Dividend of ₦3.10

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc has released its Audited Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2022, to the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) and London Stock Exchange (LSE).

Vertiv Appoints Wojtek Piorko as New Managing Director for Africa

Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), a global provider of critical digital infrastructure and continuity solutions, has announced the appointment of a new managing director for Africa. Vertiv has promoted Wojtek Piorko with immediate effect, from his previous position as South East Africa regional director. The role was previously held by Pierre Havenga, who will be leaving Vertiv at the end of June after 12 years as a strategic leader in the region.

Twitter no longer exists: Here's what Elon Musk has done

Twitter no longer exists as a separate entity. Elon Musk has merged it with a newly formed firm called X Corp., raising questions about his intentions for the social networking site.

How Airtel Africa's Valuation Drop by N1.056trn in a Week

Airtel Africa Plc recorded a 10% price down in its market valuation as sell-side investors unpacked the telecoms company’s shares in the local bourse.

LG Unveils Latest Cutting-Edge Innovations At 2023 MEA LG Showcase, Aims to Enhance Customer Experience

• The Triumphant Return of ‘Life’s Good’ in the Middle East and Africa
• LG’s flagship event returns after 4 years to highlight the company’s latest products

LG Showcase MEA 2023 is now open, marking the first time in four years that LG Electronics is presenting its latest products in the region. The two-day event will take place at Habtoor City in Dubai, UAE, with over 400 expected guests. Visitors will have the chance to witness LG's latest innovations, which will soon be rolled out in the region.

Africa becoming the gender hub for gender mainstreaming success

Over the years, the Gender Mainstreaming Awards have proven to be a powerful indicator of the strides made to create more gender-balanced corporate entities. Business Engage developed the Gender Mainstreaming Awards to encourage and motivate private corporates to buy into achieving more meaningful representation of women in the mainstream of business as a strategic imperative. Individuals are also recognised for their role in the gender mainstreaming journey.

Application Still Open for 2023 Canon Student Development Programme until April 16th

The Canon Student Development Programme 2023 aims to provide aspiring photographers with the necessary resources and opportunities to take their careers to the next level and become professional photographers. This programme includes a range of valuable offerings, such as mentorships, industry visits, grants, portfolio reviews and networking. Supporting events such as Instagram live sessions (IG live sessions) will be held on Canon’s official Instagram page, featuring Canon ambassadors and CSDP 2022 Alumni.

Easter Celebration: CAN Accuses Peak Milk Company of 'Offensive Advert', Demands Apology

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has accused FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC, the makers of Peak Milk, of posting an insensitive Easter advert that has infuriated Nigerian Christians.

FC Bayern Youth Cup Nigeria 2023 Opens Registration

The VOE Foundation has announced that registration for the highly anticipated 2023 FC Bayern Youth Cup Nigeria is now open. This tournament has become a true testament to the power of sportsmanship, skill and competition, and we cannot wait to witness the incredible display of talent that is expected this year.

World Health Day 2023: An Open Letter to the Honourable Minister of Health

In commemoration of World Health Day, young change leaders under the aegis of We Create Change Nigeria Community wrote an open letter to the Honourable Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire.

Below is the open letter: 

New ARCON law has prevented N120 billion capital flight annually, says Buchi Johnson

The new advertising regulation law, which transformed the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON) to the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has been applauded by some practitioners in the country as one of the best initiatives by the government for the advertising industry in Nigeria.

Customer Experience with LG

...Increasing Customer Satisfaction with skilled Customer Service Agents and Technicians

In recent years, the idea of the customer experience (CX) has gained prominence in the media, in academia, and across a range of industries. Several businesses have even changed the names of their divisions to reflect the phrase. This is to be expected given that, as we've seen over the past few years, delivering a high-quality CX has become essential to an organization's capacity to succeed and expand.

First NBA Academy Showcase Africa to be held April 6-9 in Senegal

NBA Africa has announced the 71 high-school-age prospects from 26 countries who will participate in the first NBA Academy Showcase Africa at NBA Academy Africa in Saly, Senegal from Thursday, April 6 – Sunday, April 9.

Steve Omojafor, Felix King, Steve Babaeko, Others shine at The Industry Awards

Steve Omojafor, Chairman, STB-McCann clinched The Industry Award for the Doyen of Advertising at the just concluded The Industry Award 4.0, while Felix King Eiremiokhae, Chief Executive Officer of MABISCO Limited won the award for CEO of the Year.

Bolt Women’s Summit on Financial Independence, Leadership, and Self Defence

To support the reduction of the gender gap across employment and entrepreneurship and in line with its commitment to the Nigeria2Equal program with the International Finance Corporation and building an inclusive society for women and overall economic growth, Bolt, the leading mobility app, recently held a Capacity Building Summit on Financial Independence, Leadership, & Self Defence among women in Nigeria.

9mobile Bags the Industry Awards for Innovation

Nigeria's most innovative brand, 9mobile, has been recognized for its innovative efforts in the telecommunications sector at the 2023 edition of The Industry Awards held recently in Lagos.

MFS Africa partners Access Bank to enable outward remittances from Nigeria and Kenya

MFS Africa, the largest digital payments network in Africa, operating in over 35 African countries, has partnered with Access Bank, Nigeria’s largest bank which operates across 17 markets, to expand AccessAfrica remittance corridors. 

LG Brings Together the Most Innovative Kitchen Appliances with Style this Ramadan

…Own the best Kitchen in this Holy Month with LG Refrigerator and NeoChef Microwave

As Muslim Faithful all over the world celebrates the Holy Month, family, food, culture and traditions are key elements that are of central focus. Cravings for a hearty, warm, and well-prepared meal become the families' delight. Ramadan is the ideal time for families to come together and create memories at home, whereby people enjoy mouth-watering dishes prepared with a variety of ingredients that include dates and fruits, meats, rice and bread and more. Homemakers cook up the most decadent meals for their family and friends to enjoy during Iftar or Suhoor and now with smart technology, they can be confident that their meals not just look and taste delicious, but are extremely healthy as well.

OpenAI: Italy temporarily bans ChatGPT over privacy concerns

Due to alleged privacy violations, Italy's data protection authorities have imposed an immediate restriction on access to OpenAI's extensively used artificial intelligence chatbot, ChatGPT.

Impact Amplifier calls for applications under its $1,000,000 Africa Online Safety Fund

Impact Amplifier (IA) has sent out a call for applications for the award of grants under its $1,000,000 Africa Online Safety Fund (AOSF).  This project is made possible with the support of Google.org.