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Africa’s Business Heroes annonce les 20 meilleurs entrepreneurs qui se qualifient pour les demi-finales à Dakar

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le concours Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) (https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/), une initiative philanthropique d’Alibaba Philanthropy, a dévoilé aujourd’hui les 20 meilleurs entrepreneurs sélectionnés pour participer aux demi-finales 2025, qui se dérouleront à Dakar, au Sénégal, les 10 et 11 septembre 2025.

La sélection des 20 finalistes est le résultat d’un processus rigoureux et hautement compétitif. Sur près de 32 000 candidatures provenant de tout le continent africain, les candidats ont passé plusieurs étapes, notamment les entretiens du deuxième tour des 50 finalistes et un processus de vérification approfondi.

Parmi eux, 20 entrepreneurs exceptionnels ont été choisis, représentant divers secteurs et incarnant l’esprit d’innovation et de résilience africain.

Ils ne sont plus qu’à un pas de la grande finale, où ils s’affronteront pour une place parmi les 10 meilleurs héros. Ceux qui se qualifieront se partageront non seulement une subvention allant de 100 000 à 300 000 dollars américains, mais bénéficieront également d’opportunités de mentorat, de réseaux internationaux et d’une visibilité mondiale sans précédent.

« Année après année, nous sommes inspirés par le calibre des entrepreneurs que nous voyons à l’ABH. Le Top 20 2025 couvre 9 pays et 10 secteurs, allant des technologies de la santé et des technologies financières aux technologies agricoles et à la durabilité, reflétant le paysage dynamique de l’innovation en Afrique. Nous continuons à observer une forte dynamique dans la transformation numérique, les modèles B2B et d’abonnement évolutifs, et les entreprises axées sur l’impact qui s’attaquent à des défis allant de l’inclusion financière à la sécurité alimentaire et à la durabilité environnementale. Ces tendances soulignent non seulement la résilience des fondateurs africains, mais aussi le potentiel du continent à générer à la fois de la rentabilité et un impact social », a déclaré Zahra Baitie-Boateng, directrice générale d’ABH pour l’Afrique.

La demi-finale de cette année marque la première fois qu’ABH organise l’événement dans un pays francophone et la première fois au Sénégal, soulignant l’influence croissante du pays en tant que pôle d’entrepreneuriat et d’innovation en Afrique. La forte croissance du PIB du Sénégal, qui atteint 8,6 %, et son rôle prochain en tant qu’hôte des Jeux olympiques de la jeunesse 2026, les premiers jamais organisés sur le sol africain, renforcent encore sa position de centre dynamique pour les talents, les affaires et les événements mondiaux. L’événement proposera des sessions de présentation à enjeux élevés, des opportunités de réseautage et des programmes de mentorat pour les finalistes.

Les 20 finalistes présenteront leur entreprise devant un jury prestigieux, dont chaque membre apporte une expertise et une perspective approfondies issues de l’écosystème entrepreneurial et d’investissement. Le jury comprend :

  • Hasan Haidar, directeur général de PlusVC et juge de longue date de l’ABH, reconnu pour sa vaste expérience dans le domaine du capital-risque et son engagement à soutenir les start-ups en phase de démarrage au Moyen-Orient et en Afrique.
  • Moulaye Taboure, PDG et fondateur d’ANKA, une plateforme pionnière dans le domaine du commerce électronique et des technologies financières qui permet aux artisans et aux commerçants africains d’accéder aux marchés mondiaux. Ancien lauréat du Top 10 Hero de l’ABH, la participation de Moulaye marque une étape importante pour le programme, car c’est la première fois qu’un ancien lauréat revient en tant que membre du jury.
  • Jason Pau, vice-président du groupe Alibaba et directeur général (international) de la Fondation Jack Ma, qui a mené des initiatives philanthropiques mondiales, notamment Africa’s Business Heroes.

Ensemble, ce jury évaluera les finalistes en fonction de leur innovation, de leur impact, de leur évolutivité et de leur leadership, afin de déterminer quels entrepreneurs accéderont à la phase finale du concours.

Cet événement historique est rendu possible grâce au soutien d’Alibaba Philanthropy, en collaboration avec les principaux sponsors sénégalais Wave, Sonatel et InTouch Group. Leur partenariat souligne leur engagement commun à favoriser l’innovation, à autonomiser les entrepreneurs et à positionner le Sénégal comme un moteur de la transformation économique de l’Afrique.

« Wave est honoré de s’associer à Africa’s Business Heroes pour organiser cet événement historique à Dakar. Pour nous, il s’agit plus que d’un simple parrainage, c’est un engagement à autonomiser les entrepreneurs, à accélérer l’innovation et à positionner le Sénégal comme un pôle de la transformation économique de l’Afrique. Le fait d’accueillir les demi-finales ici reflète notre conviction que les jeunes talents africains ont le pouvoir de façonner un avenir plus inclusif et plus prospère pour le continent », a souligné Coura Tine Sene, directrice régionale et responsable des affaires publiques chez Wave.

Maintenant dans sa 7e édition, le concours ABH Prize continue de mettre en avant et de soutenir les entrepreneurs africains qui ont un impact positif sur leurs communautés. La demi-finale de cette année est encore renforcée par la collaboration de partenaires clés de l’écosystème, notamment Ignite.E, Impact Hub Dakar, SenStartup et African Leadership University (ALU), qui contribuent à élargir la portée et à favoriser un engagement plus profond au sein du paysage entrepreneurial dynamique du Sénégal.

Découvrez les 20 héros de 2025 :

  1. Adriaan Kruger – nuvoteQ (Afrique du Sud) – HealthTech (Technologies de la santé) / Solutions numériques
  2. Baraka Chijenga – Kilimo Fresh Foods Africa Limited (Tanzanie) –AgriTech (Technologies agricoles) / Sécurité alimentaire
  3. Blandine Umuziranenge – Kosmotive (Rwanda) – Technologies de la santé / Autonomisation des femmes
  4. Bundi Mbuthia – Uzapoint Technologies Limited (Kenya) – Technologies pour les PME / Outils numériques
  5. Diana Gerald – NovFeed (Tanzanie) – AgriTech (Technologies agricoles) / Biotech
  6. Gohar Said– Suplyd (Égypte) – FoodTech (Technologies alimentaires) / Chaîne d’approvisionnement
  7. Janet Kuteli – Fortune Credit Limited (Kenya) – FinTech (Technologies financières) / Microfinance
  8. Jean Lobe Lobe – Waspito (Cameroun) – HealthTech (Technologies de la santé) / Télémédecine
  9. Jessica Roussos – BluLever Education Pty Ltd (Afrique du Sud) – EdTech (Technologies de l’éducation) / Formation professionnelle
  10. Khadija Churchill – Kwanza Tukule Foods Limited (Kenya) – FoodTech (Technologies alimentaires) / Distribution
  11. Louisa Olafuyi – Kunda Kids Ltd (Ouganda) – EdTech (Technologies de l’éducation) / Médias pour enfants
  12. Mofehintolu Funso – CredPal (Nigéria) – FinTech (Technologies financières) / Accès au crédit
  13. Dr. Moka Lantum – CheckUps Medical Center (Kenya) – Santé / FinTech (Technologies financières)
  14. Mukashahaha Diane – DIKAM Ltd (Rwanda) – Textiles / Autonomisation des femmes et des jeunes
  15. Neamat Eltazi – Poultry Sync (Égypte) – AgriTech (Technologies agricoles) / Durabilité
  16. Racine Sarr – SAWA by Shop Me Away (Sénégal) – Logistique / Plateformes numériques
  17. Samwel Bahebe Ezikiel – Mwamba Mining Limited (Tanzanie) – Exploitation minière / Durabilité
  18. Siny Samba – Le Lionceau (Sénégal) – FoodTech (Technologies alimentaires) / Nutrition infantile
  19. Thomas Brennan Patrick – Franc Group (Afrique du Sud) – FinTech (Technologies financières) / Gestion de patrimoine
  20. Wycliffe Omondi Onyango – BuuPass (Kenya) – Transport / Billetterie numérique

Pour plus d’informations sur les 20 héros, rendez-vous sur : https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/

Distribué par APO Group pour Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH).

Pour obtenir des ressources médiatiques et un dossier de presse, rendez-vous sur :
https://apo-opa.co/4mJQ5gh

Pour toute demande médiatique, veuillez contacter :
pr@africabusinessheroes.org

À propos d’Alibaba Philanthropy :
Alibaba Philanthropy est la branche sociale du groupe Alibaba, qui s’engage à mettre la technologie et les partenariats au service du bien commun. Son action couvre la revitalisation rurale, la protection de l’environnement, les secours en cas de catastrophe et l’autonomisation des communautés vulnérables. En Afrique, Alibaba Philanthropy mène des initiatives phares telles que Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH), qui soutient les entrepreneurs qui œuvrent pour une croissance inclusive et durable sur tout le continent.    

À propos de Wave :
Wave s’est donné pour mission de faire de l’Afrique le premier continent sans numéraire. Wave Mobile Money offre des solutions financières mobiles radicalement inclusives et extrêmement abordables à des millions d’utilisateurs à travers l’Afrique. Nous développons des solutions qui permettent à nos clients d’économiser et de transférer de manière abordable l’argent dont ils ont besoin pour réaliser leurs rêves. Nous sommes fiers de donner la priorité à nos clients. Pour en savoir plus, rendez-vous sur : https://www.Wave.com/en

À propos de Orange StartUp Studio :
Orange Startup Studio est le pôle d’innovation et d’entrepreneuriat de Sonatel. À travers ses deux programmes phares – 1) le Startup Lab, qui accompagne les entreprises en phase de démarrage, et 2) Orange Fab, qui accélère les start-up prêtes à croître –  le Studio soutient les entrepreneurs en leur donnant accès à l’expertise technique et sectorielle d’Orange, à des opportunités de collaboration, à un réseau de partenaires stratégiques et à une visibilité renforcée. Sa mission est de promouvoir des solutions innovantes à fort impact économique et social au Sénégal et à travers toute l’Afrique.

À propos du groupe InTouch :
Crée en 2014, InTouch a pour ambition d’être l’acteur panafricain de référence du paiement omnicanal. Avec une présence dans 27 pays, près de 4 000 entreprises clientes et un réseau de 60 000 TouchPoint à travers l’Afrique, l’entreprise a traité à ce jour près de 10 000 milliards de FCFA pour ses clients. Elle propose des solutions de paiement sur mesure permettant à ses clients de gérer l’ensemble de leur chaîne de valeur transactionnelle. Ses clients et partenaires tirent parti de son réseau de distribution multi-pays pour la collecte de paiements et la distribution de leurs services. Elle a également construit et alimente régulièrement un catalogue de plus de 400 services digitaux qu’elle met à la disposition de ses clients. InTouch est en mesure de collecter et d’effectuer des règlements pour ses clients à travers le continent. Pour en savoir plus sur InTouch : https://www.InTouchGroup.net/en

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Africa’s Business Heroes Announces Top 20 Entrepreneurs Advancing to the Semi-Finals in Dakar

Source: APO

The Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) (https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/) Prize Competition, a philanthropic initiative of Alibaba Philanthropy, today revealed the Top 20 entrepreneurs selected to advance to the 2025 Semi-Finals, taking place in Dakar, Senegal on 10 – 11 September 2025.

The selection of the Top 20 reflects a rigorous and highly competitive process. Starting from nearly 32,000 applications spanning the African continent, candidates advanced through multiple rounds, including the Top 50 Round 2 interviews and a thorough due diligence process.

From this pool, 20 exceptional entrepreneurs were chosen, representing diverse sectors and embodying the spirit of African innovation and resilience.

They now stand just one step away from the Grand Finale, where they will compete for a place among the Top 10 Heroes. Those who advance will not only share in grant funding ranging from $100,000 to $300,000 USD but also gain access to mentorship opportunities, international networks, and unparalleled global visibility.

“Year after year, we are inspired by the caliber of entrepreneurs we see at ABH. The 2025 Top 20 span 9 countries and 10 sectors from healthtech and fintech to agritech and sustainability, reflecting Africa’s dynamic innovation landscape. We continue to see strong momentum in digital transformation, scalable B2B and subscription models, and impact-driven businesses tackling challenges from financial inclusion to food security and environmental sustainability. These trends not only highlight the resilience of African founders but also underscore the continent’s potential to deliver both profitability and social impact,” said Zahra Baitie-Boateng, Africa MD of ABH.

This year’s Semi-Final marks the first time ABH is hosting in a francophone country and a first in Senegal, underscoring the country’s growing influence as a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation in Africa. Senegal’s strong 8.6% GDP growth and its upcoming role as host of th*2026 Youth Olympic Games—the first ever on African soil—further cement its position as a dynamic center for talent, business, and global events. The event will feature high-stakes pitch sessions, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs for the finalists.

The Top 20 finalists will present their businesses before a distinguished panel of judges, each bringing deep expertise and perspective from across the entrepreneurial and investment ecosystem. The panel includes:

  • Hasan Haidar, Managing Director of PlusVC and a long-standing ABH judge, recognized for his extensive experience in venture capital and commitment to supporting early-stage startups across the Middle East and Africa.
  • Moulaye Taboure, CEO and Founder of ANKA, a pioneering e-commerce and fintech platform empowering African artisans and merchants to access global markets. A former ABH Top 10 Hero, Moulaye’s participation marks a milestone for the program as the first time an alumnus has returned to serve as a judge.
  • Jason Pau, Vice President of Alibaba Group and Executive Director (International) of the Jack Ma Foundation, who has spearheaded global philanthropic initiatives including Africa’s Business Heroes.

Together, this panel will evaluate the finalists based on innovation, impact, scalability, and leadership, ultimately determining which entrepreneurs will advance to the Top 10 stage of the competition.

This landmark event is made possible through the support of Alibaba Philanthropy, together with leading Senegalese sponsors Wave, Sonatel and InTouch Group. Their partnership underscores a shared commitment to fostering innovation, empowering entrepreneurs, and positioning Senegal as a driving force in Africa’s economic transformation.

“Wave is honored to partner with Africa’s Business Heroes in bringing this landmark event to Dakar. For us, this is more than sponsorship, it is a commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, accelerating innovation, and positioning Senegal as a hub of Africa’s economic transformation. Hosting the Semi-Finals here reflects our belief in the power of young African talent to shape a more inclusive and prosperous future for the continent” emphasized Coura Tine Sene, Regional Director and Head of Public Affairs at Wave, said.”

Now in its 7th edition, the ABH Prize Competition continues to spotlight and support African entrepreneurs who are making a positive impact in their communities. This year’s Semi-Final is further strengthened by the collaboration of key ecosystem partners, including Ignite.E, Impact Hub Dakar, SenStartup, and African Leadership University (ALU), who are helping to expand outreach and foster deeper engagement within Senegal’s vibrant entrepreneurial landscape.

Meet the 2025 Top 20 Heroes:

  1. Adriaan Kruger – nuvoteQ (South Africa) – HealthTech / Digital Solutions
  2. Baraka Chijenga – Kilimo Fresh Foods Africa Limited (Tanzania) – AgriTech / Food Security
  3. Blandine Umuziranenge – Kosmotive (Rwanda) – HealthTech / Women Empowerment
  4. Bundi Mbuthia – Uzapoint Technologies Limited (Kenya) – SME Tech / Digital Tools
  5. Diana Gerald – NovFeed (Tanzania) – AgriTech / Biotech
  6. Gohar Said– Suplyd (Egypt) – FoodTech / Supply Chain
  7. Janet Kuteli – Fortune Credit Limited (Kenya) – FinTech / Microfinance
  8. Jean Lobe Lobe – Waspito (Cameroon) – HealthTech / Telemedicine
  9. Jessica Roussos – BluLever Education Pty Ltd (South Africa) – EdTech / Skills Training
  10. Khadija Churchill – Kwanza Tukule Foods Limited (Kenya) – FoodTech / Distribution
  11. Louisa Olafuyi – Kunda Kids Ltd (Uganda) – EdTech / Children’s Media
  12. Mofehintolu Funso – CredPal (Nigeria) – FinTech / Credit Access
  13. Moka Lantum – CheckUps Medical Center (Kenya) – Healthcare / FinTech
  14. Mukashahaha Diane – DIKAM Ltd (Rwanda) – Textiles / Women & Youth Empowerment
  15. Neamat Eltazi – Poultry Sync (Egypt) – AgriTech / Sustainability
  16. Racine Sarr – SAWA by Shop Me Away (Senegal) – Logistics / Digital Platforms
  17. Samwel Ezikiel – Mwamba Mining Limited (Tanzania) – Mining / Sustainability
  18. Siny Samba – Le Lionceau (Senegal) – FoodTech / Infant Nutrition
  19. Thomas Patrick – Franc Group (South Africa) – FinTech / Wealth Management
  20. Wycliffe Onyango – BuuPass (Kenya) – Transport / Digital Ticketing

For more information on the Top 20 Heroes, visit: https://AfricaBusinessHeroes.org/

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH).

For media resources and press kit, visit:
ABH Top 20 Press Kit (https://apo-opa.co/4mJQ5gh)

For media inquiries, please contact:
pr@africabusinessheroes.org

About Alibaba Philanthropy:
Alibaba Philanthropy is the social impact arm of Alibaba Group, committed to harnessing technology and partnerships for good. Its work spans rural revitalization, environmental protection, disaster relief, and empowering vulnerable communities. In Africa, Alibaba Philanthropy drives flagship initiatives such as Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH), supporting entrepreneurs who are building inclusive and sustainable growth across the continent.    

About Wave:
Wave is on a mission to make Africa the first cashless continent. Wave Mobile Money offers radically inclusive and extremely affordable mobile financial solutions to millions of users across Africa. We build solutions that allow our customers an affordable way to save and transfer the money they need to achieve their dreams. We take pride in putting our customers first. You can learn more at:
https://www.Wave.com/en

About Orange StartUp Studio:
Orange Startup Studio is the innovation and entrepreneurship hub of Sonatel. Through its two flagship programs 1) the Startup Lab, which incubates companies in the start-up phase and 2) Orange Fab, which accelerates growth-ready startups. The Studio supports entrepreneurs by giving them access to Orange’s technical and sectoral expertise, collaboration opportunities, a network of strategic partners and enhanced visibility. Its mission is to promote innovative solutions with high economic and social impact in Senegal and throughout Africa.

About InTouch Group:
Created in 2014, InTouch has had the ambition to be the pan-African player of reference for omnichannel payment. With presence in 27 countries, nearly 4,000 corporate clients, and a network of 60,000 TouchPoints across Africa, it has to date processed close to 15 billion dollars for its customers. It offers tailor-made payment solutions that allow its customers to manage their entire transactional value chain. Its customers and partners benefit from its multi-country distribution network for the collection of payments and the distribution of their services. It has also built and regularly updates a catalogue of more than 400 digital services that it makes available to its customers. The company is able to collect and make settlements across the continent.  To earn more about InTouch: https://www.InTouchGroup.net/en

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Digital gossip: When WhatsApp groups become serious cyber-risk zones

Source: APO

Despite their popularity among employees, informal messaging platforms pose significant risks to organisations’ cybersecurity. The 2025 KnowBe4 (www.KnowBe4.com) Africa Annual Cybersecurity survey (https://apo-opa.co/47oRLHi) found that 93% of African respondents use WhatsApp for work communications, surpassing email and Microsoft Teams. What can organisations do to protect themselves from data leakage and other threats? 

For many organisations, platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram have become integral to workplace communication. Ease of use is what makes them so popular, explains Anna Collard, SVP Content Strategy and Evangelist at KnowBe4 Africa. “Particularly on the continent, many people  prefer WhatsApp because it’s fast, familiar and frictionless,” she asserts. “These apps are already on our phones and embedded in our daily routines.” 

In terms of collaboration, these platforms also help employees to work together, especially in remote or hybrid work environments. “It feels natural to ping a colleague on WhatsApp, especially if you’re trying to get a quick answer,” she says. “But convenience often comes at the cost of control and compliance (https://apo-opa.co/41vySyw).” 

Informal messaging, formal risks 

Recent cases have underscored the risks of using informal platforms for professional communication. Increasingly, WhatsApp messages are being used as evidence (https://apo-opa.co/4oZcMOS) in employee tribunals and other legal cases. The British bank NatWest has gone so far as to ban WhatsApp messages (https://apo-opa.co/3UQCnMl) among its staff. In the US, a top-secret military attack on Yemen was leaked on the messaging platform Signal (https://apo-opa.co/3I2wskn) earlier this year, with the plan inadvertently shared with a newspaper editor and other civilians, including the Defence Secretary’s wife and brother.  

Official communications ending up on personal devices and informal platforms is a problem very clearly not exclusive to the corporate sector. 

“There are multiple layers of risk,” states Collard. “It’s important to remember that WhatsApp wasn’t built for internal corporate use, but as a consumer tool. Because of that, it doesn’t have the same business-level and privacy controls embedded in it that an enterprise communication tool, such as Microsoft Teams or Slack, would have.” 

The biggest risk for organisations is data leakage. “Accidental or intentional sharing of confidential information, such as client details, financial figures, internal strategies or login credentials, on informal groups can have disastrous consequences,” she says. “It’s also completely beyond the organisation’s control, creating a shadow IT problem.” This is a growing concern, as the 2025 KnowBe4 Africa Annual Cybersecurity survey (https://apo-opa.co/47oRLHi) noted that up to 80% of respondents  use personal devices for work, many of which are unmanaged, creating significant blind spots for organisations. 

Another major risk is the lack of auditability. “Informal platforms lack the audit trails necessary for compliance with regulations, particularly in industries like finance with strict data-handling requirements,” explains Collard. 

Phishing and identity theft (https://apo-opa.co/4g2Kyi5) are also threats. “Attackers love platforms where identity verification is weak,” she says, adding that at least 10 people in her personal network have reported being victims of WhatsApp impersonation and take-over scams. “Once the scammer gains access to the account, in many cases via SIM swaps,, the real user is locked out and they have access to all their previous communications, contacts and files,” she comments. “They then impersonate the victim to deceive their contacts, often asking for money or even more personal information.” 

Beyond security, using these channels can also lead to inappropriate communication among employees or the blurring of work-life boundaries, resulting in burnout. “Having a constant stream of messages can also be distracting and lower productivity,” says Collard. 

Having the right guardrails in place 

For organisations wanting to mitigate these risks, it’s important to set up a clear communications strategy, Collard maintains. “First, provide secure alternatives,” she says. “Don’t just tell people what not to use. Make sure that tools like Teams or Slack are easy to access and clearly endorsed.” 

The next step is to educate employees on why secure communication matters (https://apo-opa.co/42a27qN). “This training should include digital mindfulness principles, such as to pause before sending, think about what you’re sharing and with whom, and be alert to emotional triggers like urgency or fear, as these are common tactics in social engineering attacks (https://apo-opa.co/4g4kSlh),” shares Collard. “By promoting psychological safety, employees feel comfortable questioning odd requests, even if they appear to come from a boss or client.”  

This is particularly vital given the “confidence gap” highlighted in the new KnowBe4 Africa Human Risk Management Report 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/4n5wjeL), where high perceived awareness of cybersecurity policies often doesn’t translate into employees feeling fully confident or supported in reporting incidents or questioning suspicious communications. 

By introducing approved communication tools, organisations can benefit from additional security features, such as audit logs, data protection, access control and integration with other business tools. “These platforms also support more mindful communication norms, like scheduling messages or setting availability statuses,” says Collard. “Using approved platforms helps maintain healthy boundaries, so work doesn’t creep into every corner of your personal life. It’s about digital wellbeing as much as it is about cybersecurity.” 

In conclusion, Collard maintains that while informal messaging offers convenience, its unchecked use introduces significant cyber risks. “Organisations must move beyond simply acknowledging the problem and proactively implement clear policies, provide secure alternatives, and empower employees with the digital mindfulness needed to navigate these cyber-risk zones safely,” she emphasises. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KnowBe4.

Contact details: 
KnowBe4
Anne Dolinschek
anned@knowbe4.com 

Red Ribbon:
TJ Coenraad
tayla@redribboncommunications.co.za

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Ragots numériques : quand les groupes WhatsApp deviennent de sérieuses zones à cyber-risques

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Malgré leur popularité auprès des employés, les plateformes de messagerie informelle posent des risques importants à la cybersécurité des organisations. L’enquête annuelle sur la cybersécurité de KnowBe4 (www.KnowBe4.com) Afrique 2025 a révélé que 93 % des répondants africains utilisent WhatsApp pour les communications professionnelles, dépassant les e-mails et Microsoft Teams. Que peuvent faire les organisations pour se protéger des fuites de données et d’autres menaces ? 

Pour de nombreuses organisations, des plateformes comme WhatsApp et Telegram sont devenues partie intégrante de la communication sur le lieu de travail. Leur facilité d’utilisation est ce qui les rend si populaires, explique Anna Collard, SVP Content Strategy and Evangelist chez KnowBe4 Africa. “Particulièrement sur le continent, beaucoup de gens préfèrent WhatsApp parce que c’est rapide, familier et sans friction”, affirme-t-elle. “Ces applications sont déjà sur nos téléphones et intégrées à nos routines quotidiennes.” 

En termes de collaboration, ces plateformes aident également les employés à travailler ensemble, surtout dans des environnements de travail à distance ou hybrides. “Il semble naturel de “pinger” un collègue sur WhatsApp, surtout si vous essayez d’obtenir une réponse rapide”, dit-elle. “Mais la commodité a souvent un coût en termes de contrôle et de conformité.” 

Messagerie informelle, risques formels 

Des cas récents ont souligné les risques liés à l’utilisation de plateformes informelles pour la communication professionnelle. De plus en plus, les messages WhatsApp sont utilisés comme preuves dans les tribunaux du travail et d’autres affaires juridiques. La banque britannique NatWest est allée jusqu’à interdire les messages WhatsApp à son personnel. Aux États-Unis, un plan d’attaque militaire top-secret au Yémen a été divulgué sur la plateforme de messagerie Signal plus tôt cette année, le plan ayant été involontairement partagé avec un rédacteur de journal et d’autres civils, y compris la femme et le frère du secrétaire à la Défense. 

Les communications officielles qui se retrouvent sur des appareils personnels et des plateformes informelles sont un problème très clairement non exclusif au secteur des entreprises. 

“Il y a plusieurs niveaux de risque”, déclare Collard. “Il est important de se rappeler que WhatsApp n’a pas été conçu pour un usage interne en entreprise, mais comme un outil grand public. De ce fait, il n’intègre pas les mêmes contrôles de niveau professionnel et de confidentialité qu’un outil de communication d’entreprise, tel que Microsoft Teams ou Slack.” 

Le plus grand risque pour les organisations est la fuite de données. “Le partage accidentel ou intentionnel d’informations confidentielles, telles que les coordonnées des clients, les chiffres financiers, les stratégies internes ou les identifiants de connexion, sur des groupes informels peut avoir des conséquences désastreuses”, dit-elle. “C’est aussi totalement hors du contrôle de l’organisation, créant un problème d’informatique fantôme.” C’est une préoccupation croissante, car l’enquête annuelle sur la cybersécurité de KnowBe4 Afrique 2025 a noté que jusqu’à 80 % des répondants utilisent des appareils personnels pour le travail, dont beaucoup ne sont pas gérés, créant des angles morts importants pour les organisations. 

Un autre risque majeur est le manque d’auditabilité. “Les plateformes informelles n’ont pas les pistes d’audit nécessaires pour se conformer aux réglementations, en particulier dans des secteurs comme la finance où les exigences en matière de traitement des données sont strictes”, explique Collard. 

Le phishing et le vol d’identité sont également des menaces. “Les attaquants adorent les plateformes où la vérification d’identité est faible”, dit-elle, ajoutant qu’au moins 10 personnes de son réseau personnel ont signalé avoir été victimes d’usurpation d’identité et d’escroqueries de prise de contrôle de compte WhatsApp. “Une fois que l’escroc a accès au compte, dans de nombreux cas via des échanges de cartes SIM, l’utilisateur réel est bloqué et il a accès à toutes ses communications, contacts et fichiers précédents”, commente-t-elle. “Ils se font alors passer pour la victime pour tromper leurs contacts, leur demandant souvent de l’argent ou même des informations plus personnelles.” 

Au-delà de la sécurité, l’utilisation de ces canaux peut également entraîner des communications inappropriées entre les employés ou le flou des frontières entre vie professionnelle et vie privée, entraînant un épuisement professionnel. “Un flux constant de messages peut également être distrayant et réduire la productivité”, déclare Collard. 

Mettre en place les bonnes protections 

Pour les organisations qui souhaitent atténuer ces risques, il est important de mettre en place une stratégie de communication claire, soutient Collard. “Premièrement, proposez des alternatives sécurisées”, dit-elle. “Ne vous contentez pas de dire aux gens ce qu’il ne faut pas utiliser. Assurez-vous que des outils comme Teams ou Slack sont faciles d’accès et clairement approuvés.” 

La prochaine étape consiste à éduquer les employés sur l’importance d’une communication sécurisée. “Cette formation devrait inclure les principes de pleine conscience numérique, tels que faire une pause avant d’envoyer, réfléchir à ce que vous partagez et avec qui, et être attentif aux déclencheurs émotionnels comme l’urgence ou la peur, car ce sont des tactiques courantes dans les attaques d’ingénierie sociale”, partage Collard. “En promouvant la sécurité psychologique, les employés se sentent à l’aise de remettre en question les demandes étranges, même si elles semblent provenir d’un patron ou d’un client.” 

Ceci est particulièrement vital compte tenu du “fossé de confiance” souligné dans le nouveau rapport KnowBe4 Africa Human Risk Management Report 2025, où une perception élevée de la sensibilisation aux politiques de cybersécurité ne se traduit souvent pas par une confiance ou un soutien total des employés pour signaler les incidents ou remettre en question les communications suspectes. 

En introduisant des outils de communication approuvés, les organisations peuvent bénéficier de fonctionnalités de sécurité supplémentaires, telles que les journaux d’audit, la protection des données, le contrôle d’accès et l’intégration avec d’autres outils métier. “Ces plateformes favorisent également des normes de communication plus conscientes, comme la planification de messages ou la définition des statuts de disponibilité”, déclare Collard. “L’utilisation de plateformes approuvées aide à maintenir des limites saines, afin que le travail n’envahisse pas tous les recoins de votre vie personnelle. Il s’agit autant du bien-être numérique que de la cybersécurité.” 

En conclusion, Collard soutient que si la messagerie informelle offre de la commodité, son utilisation incontrôlée introduit des cyber-risques importants. “Les organisations doivent aller au-delà de la simple reconnaissance du problème et mettre en œuvre de manière proactive des politiques claires, proposer des alternatives sécurisées et donner aux employés la pleine conscience numérique nécessaire pour naviguer en toute sécurité dans ces zones à cyber-risques”, souligne-t-elle. 

Distribué par APO Group pour KnowBe4.

Détails du contact : 
KnowBe4 : 
Anne Dolinschek
anned@knowbe4.com

Red Ribbon : 
TJ Coenraad 
tayla@redribboncommunications.co.za

Media files

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308 arrested in N Cape Operation Shanela

Source: Government of South Africa

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape is continuing its efforts to address crime through Operation Shanela II. 

The most recent phase of the operation, conducted from Monday, 25 August to Sunday, 31 August, resulted in the arrest of 308 individuals.

The operation included vehicle checkpoints, stop-and-search activities, foot and vehicle patrols, compliance inspections, and targeted interventions aimed at curbing drug trafficking and illicit goods smuggling.

During the week-long initiative, police stopped and searched 3 546 vehicles and 6 663 individuals.

Compliance inspections were also carried out at various premises, including second-hand goods dealers, scrapyards, recyclers, private security companies, firearm dealers, formal and informal businesses, farms, and mining sites.

The arrests were related to a range of offences, such as murder, attempted murder, rape, assault, burglary, theft, possession of unlicensed ammunition, malicious damage to property, illegal liquor trading, possession of dangerous weapons, driving under the influence, drug-related offences, illicit mining, stock theft, and immigration violations.

According to a SAPS statement, several individuals wanted for outstanding warrants and violations of court orders were also apprehended. Police confiscated quantities of alcohol, drugs, and cash suspected to be linked to criminal activity.

In addition to enforcement efforts, awareness campaigns addressing women’s empowerment and gender-based violence were conducted across the province. These initiatives were undertaken in partnership with the SAPS Women’s Network, Men for Change, and community policing forums.

Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, the Provincial Commissioner of the Northern Cape, acknowledged the contributions of all law enforcement agencies involved and highlighted the importance of cooperation between the police, communities, and the private sector in combating crime. — SAnews.gov.za

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SANParks reopens hiking trail on Table Mountain

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, September 1, 2025

The South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced the second phase of the reopening of Silvermine Gate 1 and most of the trails in the Silvermine area on Table Mountain on Monday.

This follows the successful reopening of Silvermine Gate 2 and areas of Tokai on 1 July after the fire in late April 2025 that affected approximately 2 800 hectares in the area.

Located in the central section of the Table Mountain National Park, Silvermine offers some of the best hikes in the park with beautiful fynbos landscapes.

“Upper Tokai will also reopen on 1 September 2025, including Levels 4 and 5, which were previously closed in July due to unstable terrain during the rainy season. However, a section of the road from the Silvermine boom gate to the junction of Level 4 and 5 will remain inaccessible to cyclists, as rehabilitation efforts are still ongoing,” SANParks said.

The Donkey Trail from Silvermine to Upper Tokai and the Level 1 and 2 Jeep tracks for horseback riders will remain closed until further notice due to severe rain damage.

Silvermine Gate 1, located on the western side of Ou Kaapse Weg, which includes the Silvermine Dam, the Elephant’s Eye trail and the Silvermine Riverwalk, will be officially open to the public. 

“Maintenance work will continue in certain areas, including the construction of new ablution facilities. Visitors will be able to make use of the ablution facilities located at the entrance gate and near the western side of the dam until the burnt facilities near the dam parking can be reconstructed. The uThango braai area will remain closed and is expected to reopen in December 2025, pending ongoing restoration of the infrastructure.

“Although some trails may seem visually unaffected, access is being restricted in specific areas to ensure user safety and support ecological restoration efforts. Public safety is our top priority,” SANParks said.

Therefore, all trail users are urged to strictly adhere to signage, area closures, and instructions from rangers. 

Visitors must remain vigilant and stick to designated paths at all times.

“To ensure the safe reopening of these areas, SANParks is conducting Safety Awareness Campaigns as it welcomes visitors back. SANParks appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as we work towards safely restoring access to these important areas.” –SAnews.gov.za

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Government extends fishing permits for small pelagic sector

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, September 1, 2025

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has extended permits for the Small Pelagic sector due to review applications brought before the Western Cape High Court on the finalisation of appeals in the 2021/22 Fishing Rights Allocation Process (FRAP).

The department had originally aimed to complete this process by 29 August 2025. 

However, later court orders required adjustments to this timetable. Following consultation with stakeholders, the new deadline for finalisation is 30 October 2025.

“By extending permits and engaging openly with stakeholders, we are safeguarding stability in the sector while honouring the principle of fairness. Our goal is to build trust, certainty and sustainability for the fishing communities who depend on these resources,” Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George said.

The Minister said fairness and transparency are non-negotiable in the allocation of fishing rights.
“That is why we must follow due process and resolve all legal matters before finalising decisions that affect rightsholders and the sustainability of our fishery. 

“Because allocations in this sector are interconnected, final decisions on rights and quantum can only be made once all appeals have been reconsidered and comments on the Provisional Sardine and Anchovy Appeals Reconsideration General Published Reasons (GPRs) have been taken into account,” George said. –SAnews.gov.za
 

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Global Research, Academic Institutions Join African Mining Week (AMW) 2025

Source: APO


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As global research firms expand access to market intelligence, their role in shaping Africa’s mining sector has become increasingly influential. By providing critical data and insights, these institutions are helping African governments design investor-attractive policies, supporting investors in identifying high-potential opportunities and enabling companies to make evidence-based strategic decisions.  

The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders, scheduled for October 1–3, 2025 in Cape Town – will connect research institutions with industry leaders, policymakers and global stakeholders. Speakers from leading research and academic institutions have joined this year’s event, set to drive collaboration and growth. 

African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Kiana van Vuuren, Director and Head of Mining at Moore Global – a knowledge partner of AMW 2025 – will participate in the panel Women Pioneering Leadership in Africa’s Mining Industry. van Vuuren is expected to share data-driven insights on the state of women’s participation in the sector as well as broader trends on Africa’s mining industry growth, revenue generation and investment flows.  

Christopher Vandome, Senior Research Fellow for the Chatham House Africa Program, will join the Mineral Traceability: Reshaping Global Supply Chains and Geopolitical Influence panel. Vandome is expected to highlight global best practices and technologies for enhancing transparency, traceability and sustainable governance in Africa’s mineral supply chains. 

Lawrence Bbosa, Executive Manager of the Mineral Processing Division at Mintek, is anticipated to spotlight South Africa’s efforts to build a globally competitive mining workforce. Bbosa is expected to focus on how the country is leveraging a blend of local expertise and international partnerships to address industry challenges and unlock new mining sector opportunities. 

Nils Backeberg, Co-Founder and Director of Project Blue, will speak on the Critical Minerals: Driving Renewable Development in Africa panel. Backeberg is expected to offer insights on the trends shaping Africa’s cobalt, lithium, copper, rare earths and platinum group metals sectors, linking these to global shifts driven by the energy transition and fourth industrial revolution.  

AMW will also feature Colin Coleman, Adjunct Associate Professor of Business at the Columbia Business School. Coleman is expected to present the university’s findings on how improved governance, legal frameworks, supply chain optimization, and the integration of ESG certification can collectively enhance the growth of Africa’s mining industry. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Speech by HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs At The High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Palestinian Cause and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution

Source: Government of Qatar

 

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia;

 His Excellency Mr. Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the friendly Republic of France;

 His Excellency the Secretary-General of the United Nations;

 His Excellency the President of the General Assembly;

 Your Excellencies;

Distinguished attendees;

I would like to begin by expressing my sincere appreciation to His Excellency President Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, and to His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, for their joint initiative in organizing this historic conference under the auspices of the United Nations. This conference addresses one of the prolonged issues of peace and security, and one of the last remaining manifestations of colonial injustice on the international agenda.

Distinguished attendees,

Although this conference represents a glimmer of hope, we are navigating a critical juncture in the region, amidst a devastating war waged by Israel on the Gaza Strip for two years and an escalating humanitarian crisis affecting over two million individuals, the majority of whom are women and children.

In one of the most harrowing and painful moments of this tragedy, we witnessed scenes that represent a disgrace to humanity as a whole—civilians, weakened by starvation and siege, killed while standing in queues waiting for a loaf of bread, a bag of flour, or a meal to sustain their children. What future can be built upon the corpses of the starving queues? And what peace can emerge amidst this level of starvation, humiliation, and killing?

In the face of this catastrophic situation, the State of Qatar has spared no effort in undertaking diplomatic endeavors to halt the bloodshed of innocent lives, alleviate their suffering, and secure the release of hostages and detainees. The State of Qatar, based on its unwavering stance, has condemned all forms of targeting civilians. However, we categorically reject double standards, as a human is a human, and a child is a child. No one has the right to discriminate against innocent people and their right to life based on political, racial, or other grounds.

The matter has reached the point where the normalization of using starvation and targeting hospitals as methods of warfare has become a precedent that can no longer be accepted, as if it has turned into a routine practice in every conflict. The State of Qatar reiterates its unequivocal rejection of the use of food as a tool of pressure or a weapon in conflicts, and strongly condemns the policies of blockade and forced displacement being practiced against innocent civilians, as well as the repeated targeting of hospitals, shelters for displaced persons, and vital facilities, in blatant violation of international law.

Excellencies, 

The mediation efforts undertaken by the State of Qatar, in partnership with the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America, have yielded tangible results, manifested in the delivery of substantial quantities of aid and the release of hundreds of hostages and detainees from both sides.

Despite recurring obstacles, attempts to undermine the humanitarian trajectory, and the demonization of the efforts of mediating states, our efforts continue with the aim of achieving an immediate ceasefire, paving the way towards the end of the crisis, and the initiation of recovery and reconstruction efforts. This necessitates that all parties exhibit a sense of responsibility and support all initiatives aimed at achieving this goal. 

Distinguished attendees, 

The war against the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip has not only resulted in unprecedented suffering for innocent civilians, but has also undermined the credibility of international law and the universal values upon which the institutions of the international community have been founded since the Second World War.

On the other hand, it has proved that policies of force have failed, and will continue to fail, in liquidating the Palestinian cause. All that such policies have achieved is the exacerbation of further tragedies, bitterness, feelings of injustice, and scenes of killing and destruction that will remain etched in the memory of peoples across the globe. The calamities caused by the war and its political failure underscore the necessity of achieving a just and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian cause. The key lies in acknowledging the injustice inflicted upon the Palestinian people and implementing justice that has been delayed for approximately eighty years.

Driven by its unwavering commitment to peace, the State of Qatar reaffirms its full support for the objectives of this conference and its dedication to playing an active role in ensuring its success and promoting opportunities for a peaceful resolution in the Middle East.

In this context, the State of Qatar, in collaboration with Canada and Mexico, co-chaired the third working group of the conference, which focused on the theme of “Peace Narratives.” This group addressed significant topics and concluded with priority principles and proposals aimed at achieving the overarching goal of the conference. To create an enabling environment for sustainable peace, there is a pressing need to promote positive narratives that support peace between both sides, grounded in the rejection of violence, the refusal of incitement rhetoric, and the countering of attempts to dehumanize the other party.

Distinguished attendees, 

The State of Qatar reaffirms its steadfast position in supporting the peaceful resolution of the Palestinian cause in accordance with the principles of international law and relevant international legitimacy resolutions, based on the two-state solution as the only viable option for putting an end to the conflict and achieving the just and comprehensive peace.

From this standpoint, Qatar calls for a clear and unified international stance that rejects all practices that serve to obstruct negotiations and opportunities for achieving just and comprehensive peace. In this context, we welcome the recognition of the State of Palestine by several states, within the borders of June 4, 1967, encompassing the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, as we firmly believe that this constitutes a fundamental step toward achieving regional and international security and stability.

We also welcome the commitment of the friendly French Republic to recognize the State of Palestine next September.

Distinguished attendees, 

The convening of this conference embodies a collective will of the international community to translate words into actions and to seriously contribute towards advancing the trajectory of the peaceful resolution of the Palestinian cause in all its dimensions. The international community bears a pivotal role in creating the appropriate conditions for reaching a permanent and just solution, by restoring the credibility of international legitimacy following this horrific war and providing the necessary political, economic, and humanitarian support.

We hope that this conference will serve as a turning point leading to tangible commitments that go beyond statements and positions, and pave the way for practical steps toward implementing the two-state solution, in a way that ensures a just, comprehensive, and lasting resolution to the conflict, and contributes to the establishment of peace, security, and stability across the entire region.

Thank you,

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African Mining Week (AMW) to Feature Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Malawi, South Sudan, Zimbabwe and Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) Ministers

Source: APO


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As more African governments introduce investor-friendly laws to enhance mining frameworks, the upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 will bring together several African mining ministers to showcase opportunities across their jurisdictions.

Confirmed ministerial participants include Martin Gama Abucha, Minister of Mining, South Sudan (https://apo-opa.co/4fYrotI); Winston Chitando, Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Zimbabwe; Kenneth Zikhale Reeves Ng’oma, Minister of Mining, Malawi (https://apo-opa.co/4gckcdJ); Khadidja Hassane Abdoulaye, Secretary of State for Petroleum, Mines and Geology, Chad; Teddy Lwamba, Minister of Hydraulic Resources and Electricity, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC); Emmanuel Kofi Buah, Ghana’s Minister of Lands and Natural Resources and Karim Badawi, Egypt’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources.

AMW will feature the Ministerial Forum which will include South Sudan’s Abucha, Zimbabwe’s Chitando, Malawi’s Ng’oma, Ghana’s Buah and Egypt’s Badawi. The forum will highlight how strategic policies, investment incentives and infrastructure plans are accelerating beneficiation and industrialization across Africa. Malawi is emerging as a key player in critical minerals, securing $12 billion in Chinese investments in June 2025 alone – reflecting growing investor confidence and the country’s resource potential. South Sudan, for its part, is experiencing a surge in international interest, partnering with investors from Russia, Qatar, the U.S., and South Africa to advance geological mapping and exploration efforts. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe continues to strengthen its position as a key global supplier of lithium, with new project launches and investments. Ghana is implementing a five-pillar strategy to strengthen its position as Africa’s largest gold producer and the world’s sixth largest while a five-pillar strategy – led by Minister Badawi – seeks to unlock Egypt’s gold, potash and phosphate potential.

With the World Bank estimating that Africa’s mining sector could generate an additional $2 billion in revenue and create 3.8 million new jobs by 2030 through localized value addition, AMW 2025 arrives at a critical moment. Chad’s Abdoulaye will join a panel titled Africa’s Mineral Future: A Roadmap Toward Sustainable Growth and Value Creation which will highlight strategies to boost sustainable development in the sector. Meanwhile, DRC’s Lwamba will feature in the Cobalt Opportunity: DRC’s Strategic Position in the EV Revolution panel, emphasizing the country’s strategic role in the global energy transition and its efforts to leverage energy infrastructure to unlock its estimated $24 trillion in mineral wealth.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

About African Mining Week:
African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com