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Coca-Cola Beverages Africa celebrates nine years of growth and shared opportunity

Source: APO – Report:

Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) (www.CCBAGroup.com) marks nine years since the transformative merger that established it as the continent’s largest Coca-Cola bottling partner.

This milestone is grounded in a proud legacy that began 85 years ago, when the first Coca-Cola was bottled in Gqeberha, South Africa in 1940 by the SA Bottling Company (Pty) Ltd. That same year, Philipp Rowland Gutsche joined the company, beginning a family legacy that would shape the business for generations. From those early beginnings, CCBA has evolved into a key player in Africa’s beverage industry, with a deep commitment to local communities and long-term development.

Today, CCBA continues to invest in new production capacity, reinforcing its belief in Africa’s potential and its commitment to creating shared opportunities across the value chain.

In the past year alone, CCBA has launched new state-of-the-art bottling lines in South Africa, Namibia and Malawi, increasing total production capacity by over 108,000 bottles per hour, and equipped with advanced technology, including artificial intelligence. CCBA has also opened a new polyethylene terephthalate (PET) flaking plant in Namibia which doubled the capacity of the only mechanical recycler of plastic in the country through a partnership with Plastic Packaging. The completion of this cutting-edge recycling facility has enabled Namibia Polymer Recyclers (NPR), a subsidiary of Plastic Packaging, to recycle up to 500 tons of PET per month.

CCBA has also announced the company’s intention to grow its investment in Kenya by up to $175m in the five years between 2024 and 2029, should it achieve its anticipated growth targets in the country.

“These investments are a demonstration of our progress and continued belief in the future of Africa,” said Sunil Gupta, Chief Executive Officer of CCBA.

“They reaffirm the Coca-Cola system’s local approach – we produce locally, distribute locally and, where possible, source locally. Our value chain includes a significant number of businesses, many of them small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

“These investments go beyond numbers, it’s about creating shared opportunities across the value chain,” Gupta said.

“Our vision is to refresh Africa and create shared value. As we celebrate our ninth birthday as a company, we aim to inspire excellence and set the standard as Africa’s leading and most admired company, fostering growth, innovation and impact across the continent,” Gupta said.

– on behalf of Coca-Cola Beverages Africa.

ISSUED BY:
Keli Fernie
Head: Reputation and Communication
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa
Tel: +27 82 419 8766
Email: kfernie@ccbagroup.com

Follow us on: 
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4l54fGW

About CCBA:
CCBA is the eighth largest Coca-Cola bottling partner in the world by revenue, and the largest on the continent. It accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola products sold in Africa by volume. With over 17,000 employees in Africa, CCBA services more than 800,000 customers with a host of international and local brands. CCBA operates in 14 countries, South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia, the islands of Comoros and Mayotte, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Malawi.

Learn more at  https://www.CCBAGroup.com

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Op-Ed: Financing Energy Access in Africa: Leveraging Fossil Fuel Revenues to End Energy Poverty (By NJ Ayuk)

Source: APO – Report:

NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (https://EnergyChamber.org)

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/3U6V4uH). 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/4odEQxF) 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/3GO1ImM) 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/4l5R2Of) 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.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Outreach brings government services closer to communities 

Source: Government of South Africa

A provincial outreach aimed at bringing essential government services to communities and fostering principles of transparency, accountability, and inclusive development was recently held in KwaZulu-Natal.

Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli together with Members of the Provincial Executive Council (MECs) led the community outreach in Mthonjaneni Local Municipality, as part of the ongoing Operation Sukuma Sakhe (stand up and build) Cabinet Day.

The flagship initiative is a cornerstone of the provincial government’s people-centred service delivery strategy.

The day-long programme on Wednesday saw provincial departments and government entities delivering a range of crucial services to residents, including assistance with identity documents, healthcare screenings, social grant applications, agricultural support, and youth development initiatives.

“Operation Sukuma Sakhe is about ensuring that government is present where the people are. It is about addressing challenges together and accelerating service delivery so that no community is left behind,” Ntuli said.

The outreach culminated in a community engagement session where residents had an opportunity to raise concerns and shared feedback directly with the Premier, MECs, and senior officials.

Inadequate road infrastructure, limited access to healthcare, water and sanitation, and the need for increased economic opportunities were among the key issues raised at the session.

In response, the Premier and the provincial leadership made commitments that the concerns raised will be addressed. 
“These dialogues are a vital reminder of why we serve. Listening to the voices of the people helps us to deliver better, and it keeps us accountable as leaders,” the Premier said.

In a special tribute to the district’s elderly, the Premier and Cabinet members also honoured local centenarians from the King Cetshwayo District with certificates and gifts, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to family and society.

“Our centenarians are living testaments of resilience, wisdom, and community spirit. They deserve to be honoured for the lives they have built and the families and communities they continue to inspire,” the Premier said.

Operation Sukuma Sakhe continues to strengthen the partnership between government and communities, ensuring that service delivery is not only improved but also guided by the needs and aspirations of the people.

The visit to Mthonjaneni reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to responsive governance, inclusive development, and the dignity of all its people. –  SAnews.gov.za
 

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Canon named a Leader in IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Hardcopy Remanufacturing 2025 Vendor Assessment

Source: APO

Today, Canon (https://en.Canon-CNA.com) is pleased to announce that it has been named as a Leader in The IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Hardcopy Remanufacturing 2025 Vendor Assessment [1]. The report highlights the increased demand for circularity and sustainability in the print and document solutions market and takes an in-depth look at the global, regional, and local level activities of eight major industry vendors.

The study looks specifically at device and consumables remanufacturing, assessing the capabilities of those surveyed through a number of factors including types of remanufactured products, levels of innovation, cost of ownership, sales strategy and distribution. With demand for remanufactured printing technology increasing as sustainability becomes an integral business priority, the report provides a strong reference point for businesses who wish to improve the carbon footprint of their print infrastructure.

The IDC MarketScape report highlighted Canon’s strengths including its remanufacturing history and resources, citing that “Canon has been remanufacturing its products since the last millennium and has a wealth of experience and resources across the globe to meet current and future market trends for reuse”. It also noted the breadth of Canon’s office multifunction printer portfolio, highlighting. that “Canon’s remanufactured devices include monochrome and colour A3 devices and cover a wide variety of speed segments”.

Building on this, Hiro Imamura, Executive Vice President, Digital Printing & Solutions at Canon Europe comments; “With a strong heritage in sustainability and global remanufacturing and refurbishing expertise, we are well placed to help our customers make concrete steps to improve their carbon footprint and meet their environmental goals. Reusing, recycling and repairing our products for a second life is a core part of this approach and we are delighted to be recognised as a Leader in this important IDC MarketScape report. We will continue to accelerate our efforts towards the circular economy, reducing impacts across every single part of our business and expanding our sustainable product range, from our printers to our papers, to further support our customers for the future”.

About Canon’s sustainability actions

Canon is committed to achieving carbon net zero emissions by 2050 and has recently been awarded with the EcoVadis Platinum Rating for its sustainability efforts, placing it within the top 1%  of companies assessed, with an overall score in the 99th percentile. This accolade highlights Canon’s strong sustainability focus throughout its global business, across crucial areas covering environmental, social and governance criteria.

Circular approach

Support for the circular economy also forms a significant part of Canon’s sustainability strategy. The robust and durable nature of Canon’s products provides a strong platform for refurbishment and remanufacturing processes – supporting the organization in its efforts to recycle parts and hardware, where possible, for a second life.

Canon remanufactures its flagship imageRUNNER ADVANCE multifunction devices, which it markets as the imageRUNNER ADVANCE ES and ES+ range in the EMEA region, and as the Refreshed Series in Japan. This robust monochrome and colour A3 range is made with at least 90%+ reused parts, undergoing intensive cleaning, part replacement and rebuilding processes at Canon’s specialist factories. This result is a like new quality product which delivers optimal performance to support different business needs. Within its production print business, Canon also remanufactures its Arizona devices to support customers in the wide format segment. 

Additionally, in EMEA, Canon also refurbishes its imageRUNNER ADVANCE range to create its Certified Used (CU range) – these multifunction devices deliver quality, high performance printers, which are designed for a second life.

Canon’s second life products are also supported by regular firmware and software updates – helping customers to deliver high levels of workflow productivity with security and further contributing towards their sustainability efforts.

Recycling

Canon also has a long-established inkjet cartridge recycling programme, which began in 1996 and is available in 15 countries across Europe. At Canon Bretagne in France, Canon operates a closed loop toner cartridge recycling programme and since 2011, has established a system for collecting used toner bottles, refilling them with toner, and supplying them to the European market, helping to further reduce Canon’s plastic usage.

To learn more about Canon’s approach to sustainability, please see here (http://apo-opa.co/46BqReK)

[1] Doc # EUR153222025, March 2025

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About IDC MarketScape:
IDC MarketScape vendor assessment model is designed to provide an overview of the competitive fitness of technology and service suppliers in a given market. The research utilizes a rigorous scoring methodology based on both qualitative and quantitative criteria that results in a single graphical illustration of each supplier’s position within a given market. IDC MarketScape provides a clear framework in which the product and service offerings, capabilities and strategies, and current and future market success factors of technology suppliers can be meaningfully compared. The framework also provides technology buyers with a 360-degree assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of current and prospective suppliers.

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (https://en.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (http://apo-opa.co/4moTJvy) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: https://en.Canon-CNA.com

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Western Cape school transfer applications to open on 4 August

Source: Government of South Africa

Parents in the Western Cape, who wish to apply for a school transfer for their children for the 2026 school year, can submit their applications between 4 and 18 August 2025. 

According to the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), this applies to learners currently enrolled in Grades 2 to 7 and Grades 9 to 12.

“Transfer applications can also be submitted at the relevant school to which the parent or caregiver wishes to transfer, or at the relevant district office,“ the department explained. 

Parents applying will need supporting documents, including the last school report card, identity document (ID), birth certificate, passport, study permit or proof of application or police affidavit, and proof of address or police affidavit. 

“Parents who have not registered on the online system previously will first need to register on the online site. Once registration is completed, they can then proceed to the application,” the statement read. 

According to the department, schools can only capture applications for their institution, but the online system allows for applications to multiple schools.

Parents or caregivers will be required to fill out the WCED application form, which can also be downloaded from the WCED website. The form can only be submitted to schools or the district office from 4 August 2025 onwards.

Parents can drop off the application form and supporting documents directly at the school or contact the school for details on electronic submissions using only the official WCED form.

Regarding Grades R, 1, and 8 applications, the department announced that schools are currently finalising their admission lists and confirming placements for children on their waiting lists. This process is still ongoing.

“We do, however, appeal to all parents and caregivers who have not yet applied for Grade 1 and Grade 8 for the 2026 school year to do so immediately. The online platform is closed for these late applications.” 

Parents are advised to contact their district office or call 0861 819 919 for more information.

Online video tutorials and step-by-step guidelines for school transfer applications are available on the website: https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/admissions. 

Visit the admissions site for the form and relevant details: https://wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/admissions. 

Applications can be done online at: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/education/service/learner-admissions. – SAnews.gov.za

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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