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Gauteng Education provides update on municipal debt payment 

Source: Government of South Africa

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has paid R426.27 million of the R426.45 million that was owed to municipalities and Eskom for schools without Section 21(1)(d) functions. 

“As of 30 June 2025, the GDE had successfully paid a total of R426.27 million, representing 99.95% of the R426.45 million that was owed to municipalities and Eskom for schools without Section 21(1)(d) functions. The small outstanding balance of R175,853.61 (0.05%) was due to a delay resulting from updates to the Standard Chart of Accounts (SCOA), a reform implemented by the Provincial Treasury to improve public financial management systems,” the provincial department said.

Earlier this month, the department reiterated that, in line with legislation, schools – specifically those granted Section 21 functions – are entrusted with managing their own finances. These schools are responsible for a range of functions, including the payment of municipal services such as electricity and water.

READ | Gauteng Education allocates funds to schools 

This as the department provided an update on the fulfilment of its commitment to settle all outstanding municipal debts owed by schools as of 31 March 2025 and outline critical infrastructure interventions aimed at addressing overcrowding across the province’s public schools.

In its update on Thursday, the department confirmed that the remaining balance will be paid during the scheduled payment runs between 25 July and 8 August 2025. 

“This payment will bring the total settlement to 100%, thereby closing the commitment made in April 2025,” it said.

The GDE provides annual allocations to schools in accordance with the Amended National Norms and Standards for School Funding. School Governing Bodies (SGBs) are guided through circulars and compliance workshops to ensure appropriate usage of these funds and are expected to supplement state resources to ensure sustainability.

Currently, the GDE retains direct financial oversight of 40 schools in the province that have not been granted Section 21 functions. 

“As of 30 June 2025, these schools collectively owed R105,391.24 in municipal debt. The department confirms that none of these schools experienced any water or electricity disconnections and continues to monitor and manage service payments on their behalf. The department reaffirms its commitment to ensuring no public school in Gauteng is or will be disconnected from water and electricity due to unpaid accounts,” it explained.
 

Overcrowding 

As part of efforts to address overcrowding in provincial schools, the department has allocated R2.8 billion in the 2025/26 financial year toward school infrastructure. 

“Of this allocation, R1.489 billion is dedicated to the construction of new and replacement schools; R615 million will support upgrades and additions, including mobile classrooms and self-build projects; R166 million is earmarked for refurbishment and rehabilitation; and R476 million is allocated for maintenance interventions.”

The GDE’s approach to overcrowding combines various infrastructure strategies, including the construction of new schools on available sites, brick-and-mortar self-build classroom projects within existing schools, and the provision of mobile classrooms where immediate relief is required. 

It added that it procures mobile classrooms are procured directly and not through monthly lease agreements, ensuring cost-effectiveness in their deployment.

To accelerate school infrastructure delivery in high-pressure areas, the department is exploring a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

Under this model, private sector partners would finance, design, build, and potentially operate or maintain public schools for a defined period, with the department amortising payments over time. This model aims to unlock private capital, fast-track delivery timelines, and ensure long-term sustainability while maintaining public oversight and accountability.

MEC Matome Chiloane said the department remains committed to ensuring sound financial governance.

“As the department, we remain committed to ensuring sound financial governance, transparency, and service continuity in all public schools. We call on all education stakeholders, particularly parents, communities, and School Governing Bodies, to continue working closely with the Department to deliver quality learning environments across Gauteng,” he said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Government cracks down on water mafia

Source: Government of South Africa

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo has reaffirmed government’s commitment to tackling the growing challenge of water infrastructure sabotage and criminal activities of the so-called “water mafia”, who continue to violate citizens’ constitutional right to water access.

Speaking during a webinar hosted by the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), Mahlobo described the destruction, vandalism and extortion within the water sector as acts of “economic sabotage that preys on the most vulnerable and obstructs the country’s developmental goals”.

He highlighted how criminal syndicates, often in collusion with unscrupulous individuals, are deliberately disrupting water supply networks, including damaging pump stations, pipelines, and valves. They then profit by selling water through tankers at inflated prices.

“These activities not only cripple infrastructure but also endanger public health, inflate municipal budgets through recurring repair costs and degrade the dignity of affected communities,” Mahlobo said.

The webinar held this week under the theme: ‘Sabotage of Essential Water Infrastructure and Water Mafias: What Can Be Done?’, focused on initiatives underway to address the sabotage of essential water infrastructure and water mafias.

Mahlobo noted that the widespread and coordinated criminal operations have led to water outages due to the theft of critical components like pipes, cables and meters.

He warned that the problem is not only limited to urban centres but is emerging across the country and requires urgent, coordinated and forceful action.

He said department would intensify its collaboration with law enforcement agencies and all levels of government to ensure that those behind the sabotage are identified and prosecuted.

“We will not tolerate the deliberate sabotage of our water infrastructure. These criminal acts are an attack on our constitutional democracy and our commitment to human rights.

“There will be no hesitation in acting against those responsible. We are closing the space for criminals to operate, and we will pursue them relentlessly through law enforcement, community mobilisation and with the full weight of State institutions,” the Deputy Minister warned.

Mahlobo underscored the importance of community participation in protecting infrastructure. He urged citizens to report suspicious activities, support educational campaigns, and embrace a culture of whistleblowing to expose criminal networks and corruption within the water sector.

He also called for a culture of whistleblowing, encouraging individuals with knowledge of criminal networks or corruption in the sector to come forward, adding that their role is vital in rooting out entrenched criminality.

The Deputy Minister outlined the department’s comprehensive response, including the implementation of the 2025 National Water and Sanitation Indaba resolutions, which prioritise infrastructure protection strategies, public education campaigns and partnerships with law enforcement.

“Communities are also being urged to embrace innovation, as municipalities begin deploying technology such as surveillance systems, remote sensors and smart infrastructure to detect and prevent sabotage.”

Mahlobo called on all South Africans, particularly civil society, organised labour, water activists, conservation groups and traditional leaders, to unite against the sabotage of national infrastructure.

“All acts of theft, vandalism or extortion should be reported without delay to local law enforcement or municipal security authorities,” he said.

Mahlobo reaffirmed government’s stance that water access is a non-negotiable human right and “must never be held hostage by criminals”.

“Water is life, and no criminal syndicate will be allowed to hijack the public’s right to it. We are acting decisively, and we urge every South African to be part of the solution.

“We must defend this resource together. Through strong partnerships, community vigilance and courageous whistleblowing, we will protect our water and secure our future,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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How Customer Experience Management Summit (CEM) Africa, the continent’s leading CX Summit signals the next wave of customer experience innovation

Source: APO

Customer expectations are evolving, and businesses must keep pace to stay competitive. The Customer Experience Africa Summit (CEM), hosted by Vuka Group (www.WeAreVUKA.com) on 12 – 14 August 2025 at Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town, is set to be a defining moment for the industry. CEM Africa is where customer experience leaders meet to explore industry shifts, solve pressing CX challenges, and innovate solutions that create measurable business impact. Featuring impactful presentations and workshops led by CX leaders like Zendesk, Cisco and CX Experts, this event will unpack the transformative role of AI and other innovations in reshaping customer engagement.

Here’s why the summit is a must-attend for anyone looking to lead in the CX space.

AI: The Engine of CX Transformation

Artificial intelligence is no longer a buzzword, it’s a cornerstone of modern customer experience. Delegates will be treated to an exciting keynote, delivered by Ahmad Zureiki, Director of Cisco Collaboration Business for MEA. Titled “Driving Business Success: AI’s Role in Redefining Customer Experience,” Zureiki’s session will explore what it truly takes to unlock AI’s potential for reimagining customer interactions and driving enterprise success. Moving beyond hype to practical applications, Cisco’s insights will set the stage for a summit focused on actionable strategies.

This theme of AI-driven transformation runs through the summit’s workshops. For example, Zendesk’s James Stubbs and Matt Harman will lead “Beyond Bots: AI at Every Stage of the Customer Journey,” a 60-minute interactive session. This workshop will showcase how Zendesk AI enhances self-service resolutions, empowers agents with real-time insights, and streamlines contact centre workflows. Through practical examples, attendees will learn how to embed AI to tackle complex issues, boost productivity, and deliver seamless customer experiences.

Practical Strategies for Exceptional CX

Delivering outstanding customer experiences requires more than technology, it demands strategy and execution. The summit’s workshops address this head-on. One session, “Practical Insights on Delivering a Great Customer Experience,” will explore how organizations can blend proactive engagement, digital channels, and AI-driven solutions to achieve meaningful outcomes. Attendees will tackle key challenges, such as where to begin and how to prioritise, to create CX strategies that drive results.

Another workshop, “Delivering Great CX from Within: Enhancing Employee Experiences with AI,” highlights the critical link between employee empowerment and customer satisfaction. This session will demonstrate how AI can streamline workflows for customer-facing teams, enabling agents and supervisors to deliver better experiences with greater efficiency. By focusing on employee experience, organisations can create a ripple effect that transforms customer interactions.

Learning from AI’s Real-World Impact

As AI reshapes CX, real-world lessons are invaluable. The workshop “Realisation of AI in the Customer Experience Domain – Lessons Learnt So Far” will delve into the evolving landscape of AI adoption. This session will cover trends, challenges, and insights from early adopters, offering practical guidance for organizations at any stage of their AI journey. Whether you’re just starting or refining existing strategies, this workshop will help you avoid common pitfalls and embrace sustainable AI adoption.

Why CEM Africa Summit Matters

The stakes for CX are higher than ever. A recent study by PwC found that 73% of consumers prioritise experience over price, making CX a key driver of loyalty and revenue. The CEM Africa Summit addresses this reality by bringing together industry leaders like Cisco and Zendesk to share actionable insights. As Terry Southam, Group Director: Retail at Vuka Group, notes: “CEM Africa is a catalyst for redefining how businesses connect with customers. By bringing together visionaries like Cisco’s Ahmad Zureiki and Zendesk’s James Stubbs and Matt Harman, we are equipping attendees with the tools to lead in CX innovation.”

Looking Ahead

CEM Africa Summit, taking place at Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town, is more than an event, it is a glimpse into the future of customer experience. By spotlighting AI’s transformative power, practical CX strategies, and real-world lessons, the summit will inspire and empower professionals to drive meaningful change.

Learn more and register at www.CEMAfricaSummit.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

For media enquiries, contact:
Steven Dennett
steven.dennett@wearevuka.com

Social Media:
Join the conversation on social media by following CEM on LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/45e91fs

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Home Affairs dismisses a further five officials 

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, July 31, 2025

The Department of Home Affairs has dismissed five officials for corruption and sexual assault.

“On Monday, 28 July 2025, the Department of Home Affairs dismissed a further five officials, with immediate effect, for offences ranging from fraud to sexual assault. The total number of officials dismissed between July 2024 and July 2025 now stands at 38,” the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Ministry said eight officials have already been convicted and sentenced to prison terms ranging from four to 18 years, while the criminal prosecution of another 19 is underway. 

“These dismissals follow on the crackdown on a passport syndicate in Durban just last month, where two officials and three members of the public were arrested. These results demonstrate the growing success of Home Affairs in dealing with criminal syndicates both inside and outside the department,” said the Ministry.

Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber said the days of defrauding the department are over.

“In just 12 months, we have already rid Home Affairs of 38 crooked and delinquent officials. I repeat my warning to anyone involved in corruption: the days of defrauding this department or committing acts of sexual harassment or abuse while relying on long drawn-out disciplinary processes, are over.”

The Minister thanked the department’s diligent officials, including those involved in accelerating disciplinary processes, who are playing a critical role “in our work to clean up Home Affairs”.

“Committed officials like these are the future of Home Affairs, as we continue to work together as #TeamHomeAffairs to clean out the corrupt elements that represent the past,” said the Minister.-SAnews.gov.za 

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Navigating the Jukskei: An in depth look into the legendary Joburg river

Source: Government of South Africa

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) Press will launch a new book this evening that explores the diverse ways in which the Jukskei River has influenced the cultural, social, political and scientific narratives of Johannesburg.

Titled ‘Johannesburg from the Riverbanks: Navigating the Jukskei’, this engaging volume is edited by Mehita Iqani and Renugan Raidoo.

According to HSRC, this innovative volume brings together an array of interdisciplinary voices, shedding light on the complex and often tangled relationships between the city and this vital waterway. 

Five different launches have been organised, starting with the launch at Exclusive Books in Rosebank on Thursday, 31 July 2025, from 6:30 pm.

The organisation said the book builds on the insightful discussions and interdisciplinary perspectives shared at the 2022 Riparian Urbanism Conference, which brought together a diverse range of voices to explore the complex relationship between the city and this river. 

“From the bustling inner city to the tranquil northern suburbs, the Jukskei’s history acts as a mirror reflecting the city’s growth, struggles and stark inequalities. 

“Readers will uncover the dynamic interaction of memories, identities, and aspirations that the river embodies, all while addressing the urgent environmental challenges resulting from modernisation.” 

Professor Emeritus at the University of the Witwatersrand, Isabel Hofmeyr, said this “treasure trove of a book” tells stories of how Johannesburg and the Jukskei River make each other. 

“A sparkling compendium of chapters and images by artists, activists, scientists, urban planners, and historians will make you think about the river in new ways,” she said. 

Professor of History at the University of the Witwatersrand, Mucha Musemwa, believes the book not only investigates the Jukskei River itself but also enriches the city’s understanding of Johannesburg in refreshing ways. 

“[It is] an invigorating read for anyone interested in the intersection of nature and urban life,” he said. 

The Head of the History Workshop at the University of the Witwatersrand, Noor Nieftagodien, believes that authors highlight how the processes of modernisation, such as the mining industry and urbanisation, have contaminated this historic waterway. 

Nieftagodien said they also illustrate how the banks of the river reflect the city’s significant inequalities.

“Yet, amidst these challenges, artists and activists offer hope by reimagining our relationship with the river, making this a crucial contribution to current conversations about environmental crises,” Nieftagodien added. 

Click here on the link to RSVP https://exclusivebooks.co.za/pages/events#?event-id=55150. – SAnews.gov.za

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Un héritage vivant : Arbre flamboyant planté à Grenade pour rendre hommage au Président sortant d’Afreximbank Benedict Oramah

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Lors de la deuxième journée du Forum Afrique-Caraïbes sur le commerce et l’investissement (ACTIF2025), une cérémonie symbolique de plantation d’arbres s’est tenue à Grenade en l’honneur du Professeur Benedict Oramah, Président sortant de la Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (« Afreximbank ») (www.Afreximbank.com) pour sa contribution durable aux relations afro-caribéennes.

Le flamboyant, arbre originaire de Madagascar mais largement répandu dans les Caraïbes, a été choisi pour sa beauté et sa résonance symbolique. Connu pour ses fleurs d’un rouge éclatant, il est perçu comme une représentation de la vitalité, de la paix et de la promesse de croissance, faisant écho aux principes mêmes qui ont défini le leadership d’Oramah.

Le Premier ministre de Grenade, Dickon Mitchell, a présidé l’hommage, saluant l’impact transformateur d’Oramah dans la région.

« Cette plantation symbolique mais significative d’un flamboyant, un arbre originaire de Madagascar qui a trouvé sa place aux Caraïbes et embellit le paysage où que vous alliez. Lorsqu’il fleurit, ses magnifiques fleurs rouges inspirent beauté, tranquillité et paix en chacun de nous. Cet arbre témoigne du rôle important que vous avez joué pour que l’Afrique puisse s’élever, s’épanouir, fleurir et servir de témoignage et d’héritage aux générations futures », a déclaré le Premier ministre Mitchell.

En réponse, le Président Oramah a exprimé sa profonde gratitude à Grenade et à l’ensemble de la communauté des Caraïbes :

« En tant qu’économiste agricole, je connais la valeur d’une plante. Dans le cycle de vie des aliments, c’est la plante qui constitue le point d’ancrage. En m’associant à l’honorable Premier ministre pour planter cet arbre, je me rappelle que j’ai trouvé un point d’ancrage très profond à Grenade et dans la CARICOM ».

Réfléchissant sur le symbolisme, il a poursuivi :

« Une personne qui plante un arbre doit en prendre soin, une personne qui plante un arbre doit venir en récolter les fruits, une personne qui plante un arbre doit toujours veiller à ce que l’arbre dure et perdure… C’est pourquoi je considère cela comme une ancre, celle qui me ramènera et me retiendra ici ».

« L’Afrique est le berceau de la civilisation. L’Afrique a donné la vie au monde, et planter cet arbre en mon honneur témoigne de votre reconnaissance pour le travail que nous accomplissons pour donner la vie aux gens. Je tiens à vous assurer que je ferai tout ce qui est en mon pouvoir, jusqu’à ce que je sois à bout de forces, pour que nous continuions à avancer, ce à quoi nous sommes tous engagés, je crois ».

La plantation d’arbres a eu lieu au deuxième jour de l’ACTIF2025, réunissant de hauts responsables gouvernementaux, des chefs d’entreprise et des représentants de la société civile d’Afrique et des Caraïbes pour approfondir l’intégration économique et culturelle sous le thème : « Résilience et transformation : Renforcer la coopération économique Afrique-Caraïbes dans un contexte d’incertitude mondiale ».

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse :
Vincent Musumba
Responsable de la communication et de la gestion événementielle (Relations presse)
Courriel : press@afreximbank.com

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À propos d’Afreximbank :
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2024, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 40,1 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 7,2 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée A par GCR International Scale, Baa2 par Moody’s, AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et BBB par Fitch. Au fil des ans, Afreximbank est devenue un groupe constitué de la Banque, de sa filiale de financement à impact appelée Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure, (les trois entités forment « le Groupe »). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte.

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez visiter www.Afreximbank.com

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Bold Sports marks major digital milestone during Super Falcons’ Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 victory

Source: APO

Bold Sports (www.BoldSportsng.com), Nigeria’s emerging digital sports media platform, announced today that it recorded unprecedented audience growth across its digital platforms during the recently concluded Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024, where the Super Falcons lifted their 10th continental title.

From July 5 to 26, 2025, the tournament period saw Bold Sports significantly increase its reach and engagement across its digital platforms, positioning it as one of the most active and influential sports content creators in Nigeria during the championship.

On Facebook, Bold Sports attracted over 18 million video views, with reach climbing to over 4 million users and visits increasing by around 120% to over 120,000. The engagement also rose by over 141% to 1.2 million, while the platform gained more than 65,000 new followers, bringing its total Facebook community to over 130,000 followers.

TikTok content during the same period recorded over 1.2 million video views, with 90,000 likes, over 13,000 profile views, and a significant increase in user engagement, including comments and shares from football fans across the continent.

The official website, www.BoldSportsng.com, crossed 20,000 page views, while the brand’s YouTube channel registered over 146,000 views, fueled largely by interactive watch-along sessions and fan commentary during matchdays.

“The Super Falcons’ journey to a 10th WAFCON title was a historic moment for Nigerian football, and we were proud to capture it with the energy and passion it deserved,” CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Bold Sports, Tosin Oluwalowo, said. “We made a clear decision to cover the tournament from a fan-first, Nigerian perspective — and the numbers show that our audience responded powerfully to that approach.”

“Bold Sports really came through during WAFCON,” Tolu Onigbinde, a Nigerian football fan based in Lagos said. “It wasn’t just the scores from the matches, they made us feel like part of the journey. From the behind-the-scenes stories to the fan banter and post-match reactions, it felt fresh. I followed everything through them.”

Chief Operating Officer and Managing Editor, Kelvin Ekerete, added: “What we’ve seen in the past few weeks validates our belief that Nigerian fans want relatable, and quality content. Our team worked tirelessly across formats and the audience stayed with us every step of the way.”

The Super Falcons sealed their historic title win by defeating host nation Morocco 1–0 in the final played in Casablanca. The victory also marked the successful achievement of the Nigeria Football Federation’s “Mission X” campaign, which was launched prior to the tournament with the goal of winning Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON crown

Throughout the tournament, Bold Sports delivered dynamic coverage, including pre-match previews, behind-the-scenes, player features, match reactions, and engaging social commentary that resonated deeply with fans in Nigeria and across Africa.

The growth achieved during WAFCON 2024 highlights Bold Sports’ rising status as a trusted voice in Nigerian sports media, and underlines the company’s mission to tell Nigerian sports stories through a proudly local, digital-first lens.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Bold Sports.

Media Contact:
admin@boldsportsng.com

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About Bold Sports:
Bold Sports, published by Bold Media Innovations & Creative Hub Limited, is Nigeria’s leading digital sports media platform, providing high-quality, data-driven coverage of Nigerian athletes at home and abroad. Through video, storytelling, and real-time engagement, Bold Sports connects a passionate community of fans with the moments that matter — from grassroots to global competitions.

With a bold, multimedia-first approach, we celebrate Nigeria’s sporting excellence and foster national pride across generations and geographies.

Motto: Boldly Nigerian. Passionately Sporty.

Website: www.BoldSportsng.com

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5 Reasons to Consider Payroll Outsourcing

Source: APO

Accurate and timely payroll impacts costs, tax compliance, and employee morale. Many organisations assume that insourced payroll is inherently superior. Yet in today’s dynamic business environment, this assumption can be more costly. It can burden valuable personnel, increase compliance risks, and saddle organisations with expensive, yet obsolete, software.

Workplaces are becoming more complex through a wide variety of employment conditions, frequent regulation changes, and growth risks (especially when operating in multiple regions). Payroll systems don’t always keep up, which is why over a third of companies are dissatisfied with their internal payroll systems (http://apo-opa.co/45tJ0Ko).

“The importance of accurate and timely payroll is undeniable. But assuming that insourcing payroll is inherently superior misses the mark. In today’s dynamic business environment, clinging to outdated internal systems is costly, diverts valuable personnel, and complicates software management,” says Heinrich Swanepoel, Head of Business Development at Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace.

Outsourced payroll’s strategic advantages

Outsourcing payroll is a strategic move that adds scale and flexibility to an organisation’s operations. Whether it’s for five or five thousand employees, one office or multiple countries, using an experienced and technologically capable outsourced payroll provider creates crucial advantages in workforce management and adaptability.

Here are five key reasons why payroll outsourcing is a game-changer:

  1. Remove Legacy System Limitations and Costs: Outdated payroll software an expose you to delays, errors, and fragmented workflows. Outsourcing with modern technology provides flexibility. Providers can efficiently handle payroll tasks regardless of onboarding surges, market expansions, or workforce adjustments.
  1. Empower Staff for Higher-Impact Work: Outsourced experts add knowledge, coupled with payroll automation, secure collaboration tools, data integration, and enhanced financial visibility. They help key personnel in payroll, HR, and finance to focus on strategic, high-value priorities.
  1. Navigate Payroll Compliance: Outsourcing specialists make it their business to know local and international tax rules, labour laws, and data regulations. They use software with built-in compliance checks, audit trails, and secure document tracking. The provider shares and even inherits the responsibility of payroll software compliance such as GDPR, POPIA, SOC 1 & 2, and ISO 27001.
  1. Flexible payroll management: Outsourced payroll providers use scalable and flexible software to align with organisational changes, enabling their clients to adapt without reconfiguring payroll departments with restructuring or new hires.
  1. Access Advanced Features: Keeping up with new features and aligning them with operations is expensive and disruptive. Outsourced payroll providers introduce cutting-edge technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data analytics as part of their core business strategies. They offer seamless integration with client business systems for real-time, fully compliant payroll operations that the client controls without adding technical risks.

Evaluating an outsourced payroll partner

Outsourcing payroll creates huge advantages. But not all outsourced payroll providers are the same. The best candidates combine human expertise with the advantages of modern cloud-native payroll platforms.

To evaluate a provider, test their payroll expertise and compliance knowledge. Security and data protection are non-negotiable, and assess their track record with other clients. Look at what software they use—the capabilities of the software and how well their people can use those features are as important as the staff’s professional capabilities. Are they masters of their tools as well as their craft?

Interrogate their service levels and how they extend capabilities to clients, such as self-service and ad hoc reporting. Evaluate the technology platform in terms of real-time data access, automated calculations, integration with HR and accounting tools, and compliance.

“Outsourcing payroll isn’t just about saving time — it’s a strategic move that positions your business for growth, compliance, and agility,” says Swanepoel. “With the right partner, you can reduce costs, streamline operations, and focus your energy where it matters most: on your people and your business.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace.

For media queries please contact:
Victoria Lindsay:
victoria@innocomm.co.za.

About Deel Local Payroll:
Deel Local Payroll, powered by PaySpace (www.PaySpace.com), revolutionises payroll management. It offers online, multi-country payroll and HR management for businesses from start-ups through to enterprise in over 40 African countries, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and Brazil.

Cloud-native, Deel Local Payroll, is scalable, configurable, highly secure, and easy-to-use—delivering anytime, anywhere access. It features payroll automation, self-service features, automatic legislation and feature updates, customised reporting, and more.

Since 2024, Deel Local Payroll has been part of Deel, operating as an independent subsidiary, serving its customers through the PaySpace platform. 

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Op-Ed: Financing Energy Access in Africa: Leveraging Fossil Fuel Revenues to End Energy Poverty

Source: APO

NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber
 

In an emissions-focused world, do oil and gas revenues have a role to play in ending energy poverty in Africa? It may sound counterintuitive, but many would argue that they do, albeit as enablers of a future powered by alternative energy sources.  

The key lies in recognizing that Africa’s situation is unique, and solutions take time, building on what we have and what we can do with it. This means that, in working towards a just energy transition, the continent’s oil and gas resources shouldn’t be viewed as obstacles that need to be immediately replaced by renewable energy sources. Instead, rather than prematurely phasing out fossil fuels in response to global pressure, Africa should harness these revenues responsibly to finance its energy transition and ultimately eradicate energy poverty. 

Prioritizing Development Alongside Sustainability 

Nearly 600 million Africans still live without access to electricity (https://apo-opa.co/3IV6Rd8). This access is a fundamental human right, yet energy poverty remains one of the continent’s most significant barriers to development. This undermines health systems, education, industrialization, and dignity. As the world debates how to rapidly achieve net-zero, Africa’s priority is different: how to power its people now, while building a sustainable future. 

Measuring Africa’s energy transition progress against external calls for an abrupt end to fossil fuels risks leaving millions behind. Our continent contributes less than 4% (https://apo-opa.co/40Ilfvu) to global emissions, yet we are expected to decarbonize at the same pace as industrialized nations that built their wealth on hydrocarbons. 

Instead, the continent’s abundance of fossil fuels should be viewed as a bridge, not a barrier. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) Africa-Paris Declaration (https://apo-opa.co/4l4JTO2) underscores this principle – Africa’s oil and gas revenues can and must be used as a financial lever to invest in electrification, clean energy, and infrastructure projects. This pragmatic and just approach prioritizes development alongside sustainability, not instead of.  

There are several ways to achieve this. First, reinvesting oil and gas revenues into rural electrification can transform communities. Decentralized solutions like off-grid solar and mini-grids offer practical ways to reach remote areas. Although urban dwellers do experience power outages, for many rural populations, it’s a way of life. For the mother cooking with firewood or the student studying by candlelight, a small solar grid is life-changing. Fossil fuel revenues can finance these systems at scale, bridging the immediate access gap while longer-term grid expansions are in progress.  

Second, establishing innovative financing mechanisms is essential. For instance, the fledgling Africa Energy Bank (https://apo-opa.co/4laFrh1) aims to bridge the continent’s estimated $31 billion to $50 billion annual energy funding gap by focusing predominantly on financing energy projects. Launched in 2025, the bank is poised to play a transformative role in mobilizing capital for African energy projects. Additionally, global investors are increasingly exploring energy investment opportunities in Africa. In support of this, development finance institutions, such as the African Development Bank, the World Bank, and the International Finance Corporation, are de-risking investments by offering concessional loans, guarantees, and technical assistance, making investment in African energy projects more attractive.  

Third, policy reforms that create enabling environments are critical. Here, governments have a role to play in prioritizing revenue-generating projects, creating stable regulatory frameworks, and offering incentives for public-private partnerships. This will support investment, reduce risks, and unlock the transformative power of energy access. 

These solutions demonstrate the importance of a fair and equitable transition and the vital role that fossil fuels will continue to play in achieving this goal. They also prove that this goal is achievable, even if it is on the continent’s own terms. 

Unique Solutions to Africa’s Energy Challenges 

Africa’s path to net-zero has the same end goal as the rest of the world, but it can’t mirror their journey. Our starting points are different, and our development needs are urgent. We understand that climate action can’t be delayed. But it can be just, inclusive, and rooted in African realities. And it can also be supported by revenues from our abundant natural resources.   

The Africa-Paris Declaration notes that ‘a fair transition recognizes that fossil fuels remain valuable for Africa’s development, prosperity, and energy access goals. Africa doesn’t need to choose between oil and gas or renewables. Given our current position, all are important and require both strategic and sensible deployment. Fossil fuels generate the revenues to invest in solar, wind, hydropower, and grid infrastructure. They fuel industries that create jobs. They support healthcare, education, and innovation. 

When managed responsibly, Africa’s fossil fuel revenue can serve as a bridge to a brighter, greener, and more prosperous continent. Will it be quick and easy? No. Will some question the approach? Most certainly. But the alternative is leaving hundreds of millions of people in the dark. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of TotalEnergies.

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Petrofund Launches Flagship Scholarship to Empower Namibian Youth in Oil and Gas

Source: APO

Namibia’s Petroleum Training and Education Fund (Petrofund) officially launched its flagship scholarship program during the 2nd Youth in Oil and Gas Summit, reinforcing its commitment to building a highly skilled national workforce for the country’s burgeoning oil and gas sector. The new scholarship complements the Namibian government’s free tertiary education policy by fully funding undergraduate and postgraduate students in engineering, geosciences, paramedics and technical vocational training disciplines relevant to upstream oil and gas operations. Courses will be offered at accredited institutions across the Southern African Development Community region and internationally.

As the voice of the African energy sector, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) commends Petrofund’s leadership and forward-thinking strategy to anchor Namibian youth at the core of the country’s growing energy economy. With major discoveries in the Orange Basin and increasing momentum towards first oil, initiatives like this are essential to ensure local capacity meets international operational standards.

In addition to its flagship scholarship program, Petrofund has introduced several strategic initiatives to accelerate youth integration into Namibia’s oil and gas industry. Through its expanded on-the-job training program, more than 82 young professionals have been deployed across various technical roles in collaboration with premier service and operating companies including TechnipFMC, SBM, Subsea 7, Baker Hughes, Halliburton, SLB, BW Energy, Shell, ReconAfrica, TotalEnergies and QatarEnergy. Petrofund has also signed ten memoranda of understanding to deepen these partnerships and enhance practical industry exposure. Additionally, the government-led fund is developing a national oil and gas CV repository – set to launch in Q4 2025 – to bridge the gap between skilled graduates and industry demand.

Petrofund is also strengthening its collaboration with Namibian institutions of higher learning. Partners include the Namibia University of Science and Technology and University of Namibia, along with regulatory authorities such as the Namibia Qualifications Authority; National Council for Higher Education; Namibia Training Authority; and Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Art and Culture. This initiative aims to introduce and accredit more oil and gas-related programs locally, enhancing access to technical education aligned with global industry standards. To date, Petrofund has invested over N$115 million to support 438 Namibians in petroleum-related studies, achieving a 90% internship and employment placement rate for its Master’s level beneficiaries.

As Namibia progresses towards final investment decisions for high-impact offshore projects led by operators such as TotalEnergies and Shell, this program ensure that Namibians are equipped with the technical expertise to actively participate and lead in-country value creation. Imminent first production means Petrofund’s holistic approach to human capital development can align with the country’s Local Content Policy and sets the foundation for long-term, inclusive growth. The AEC supports these efforts as a model for Africa’s youth empowerment in energy.

“Petrofund is setting the standard for what youth empowerment in Africa’s energy sector should look like. By aligning skills development with industry demand and embracing inclusivity, Namibia is not just preparing its young people for jobs – it’s preparing them for leadership. The Chamber fully supports these efforts, which will ensure that Namibians are not just bystanders, but key drivers of their energy future,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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