Podcasts about techcentral

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Best podcasts about techcentral

Latest podcast episodes about techcentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS + | HP's AI future - how on-device intelligence is redefining work in Africa

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 27:11


AI has advanced at breakneck speed in the last few years, with most knowledge workers using the technology to enhance their work in some shape or form. Most of this computing has been happening in the cloud. However, the advent of the neural processing unit, or NPU, has made it possible to move AI computation to the edge, which not only improves speeds but also protects personal and company data. In this episode of TechCentral's TCS+, we were on location at the Maslow Hotel in Sandton where HP recently hosted its 2025 Future of Work event. The event brings together industry leaders, decision-makers and innovators and explores the evolving landscape of work in the age of artificial intelligence. Ertug Ayik, vice president and MD for Middle East and Africa at HP, connects the dots between the company's new AI-infused product line and broader concepts shaping the way in which work is being done. Ayik delves into: • HP's shift from a product focused company to a solutions and services outfit; • Why on-device AI processing capability has become a priority for HP; • The advantages on-device AI have for performance, security and power efficiency; • HP's strategy for South Africa and the African continent; • Key initiatives HP is driving across Africa; and • What to expect from HP in the coming years. Don't miss the conversation! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS | Barney Harmse on building Paratus Group – and working with Starlink

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 56:37


Paratus Group executive chairman Barney Harmse joins the TechCentral Show to share the story of the telecommunications group's rise from small beginnings in Angola and Namibia more than 20 years ago and how it became one of Southern Africa's biggest ICT infrastructure players. Paratus started life in Angola in 2003, evolving from a local internet service provider into a pan‑African telecoms powerhouse. Co-founded by Harmse with Schalk Erasmus, Rolf Mendelsohn, Martin Boese and Miles October, it grew rapidly and now has infrastructure across the region, including in Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, Mozambique, the DRC and Namibia. This week, it officially launched the first privately owned mobile network operator in Namibia, which will compete directly with the state-owned incumbents. Today the business works closely with the likes of Starlink, Google and Meta Platforms and plays a significant role in long-distance, metropolitan and access networks across the region. It also helped land Google's Equiano cable on the Namibian coast. In this lively interview with TechCentral editor Duncan McLeod, Harmse unpacks the Paratus story, touching on: • What building telecoms infrastructure across the vast reaches of Southern Africa has entailed, including memorable moments along the way; • The company's financial backers, and its capital-raising plans – including a possible future listing in New York; • Why it built a network of long-distance fibre across Southern Africa; • Paratus's relationship with Elon Musk's Starlink, and why it's a key role player in the launch of the low-Earth orbit satellite provider's offering across the region; • The launch of the mobile network in Namibia and why it's a significant development in the Paratus story; and • The opportunities still ahead for Paratus Group. Don't miss a great interview! TechCentral

The Best of the Money Show
Blue Label restructures ahead of Cell C's JSE listing bid

The Best of the Money Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 6:51 Transcription Available


Stephen Grootes speaks to Duncan McLeod, Founder and Editor at Techcentral, about Blue Label’s strategic restructuring ahead of Cell C’s proposed unbundling and potential listing on the JSE, a move aimed at unlocking shareholder value and positioning Cell C for independent growth and sustainability. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TechCentral Podcast
TCS | Maziv goes massive: CEO Dietlof Mare on Vumatel's big roll-out plans

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 52:01


Maziv, the company that owns Vumatel and Dark Fibre Africa, plans to spend R12-billion over the next five years as its ramps its deployment of fibre infrastructure across South Africa. Poised for a big injection of cash and assets from Vodacom, which is buying a 30% co-controlling stake in the business, it has unveiled big plans to deploy fibre in townships and other underserved parts of the country. In this exclusive podcast interview, CEO Dietlof Mare unpacks Maziv's ambitious plans with the TechCentral Show, telling TechCentral editor Duncan McLeod about: • The painful three-and-a-half years it took to get the deal over the line with the competition authorities and how these delays undermined investment in new fibre builds in South Africa; • Why regulators need to reflect on the time it took to conclude the transaction, and why they need to be quicker in adjudicating M&A activity to grow the economy; • How the merging parties eventually secured the approval of the Competition Commission, which had initially recommended that the transaction be blocked on competition grounds; • Vumatel's deployment plans – where it's going to focus next with its new fibre builds and why; • The economics of rolling out fibre into townships and into low-income communities, a key focus for the business over the next five years; • What the conclusion of the deal means for the sector, including the potential for further consolidation of fibre network operators; • The policy and regulatory changes Maziv would like to see to help it speed up the deployment of fibre in South Africa; and • How the Maziv business is expected to change in the coming years. Don't miss a great discussion about the future of broadband internet infrastructure in South Africa! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | Arctic Wolf on cybersecurity in the age of AI

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2025 33:39


What does it really take to defend a business in an era of AI-driven attacks? In this episode of TechCentral's TCS+ ,Clare Loveridge, vice president and GM for Europe, Middle East and Africa (Emea), and Johnny Ellis, senior director of Emea channel sales, both at Arctic Wolf, go beyond the buzzwords to confront the uncomfortable truth: despite billions spent on security tools, cyber losses are still mounting. Arctic Wolf's answer is a different model, one that combines its artificial intelligence-powered Aurora Platform with human expertise in a concierge delivery approach. It's a strategy that tackles the industry's “effectiveness gap” head-on by integrating people, processes and platforms to deliver outcomes, not just alerts. The conversation is blunt about the shifting threat landscape: AI has overtaken ransomware as the top emerging risk, and no single tool can fix it. What organisations need is visibility at every layer – from endpoints and cloud to people. Equally compelling is Arctic Wolf's commitment to channel-first partnerships in South Africa, ensuring trusted local expertise underpins global innovation. From the acquisition of Cylance Endpoint to the launch of Incident Response 360, the company is pushing to redefine what operationalised security means. But the biggest takeaway is simple: cyberattacks are no longer an “if” but a “when” – and every organisation needs a plan. Watch or listen to the full discussion to explore why Arctic Wolf believes security must move beyond tools to become a living, breathing business function – and how leaders can finally start sleeping better at night. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS | The story behind Nedbank's R1.65-billion iKhokha deal

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2025 26:43


Nedbank announced last week that it was acquiring Durban-based fintech iKhokha in a R1.65-billion deal that could signal the start of further consolidation in the payments industry in South Africa. Nedbank described the deal as a “significant milestone” in its strategy to target small and medium enterprises. iKhokha co-founder and CEO Matt Putman is TechCentral's guest in this episode of the TechCentral Show. He unpacks the deal with TechCentral editor Duncan McLeod, explaining how it came about and what it means for the company's further growth. Founded in Durban in 2012, iKhokha provides mobile point-of-sale solutions to SMEs. Its products include card machines and a mobile app that allows merchants to accept card payments, with added business management tools. It was founded by Putman, Ramsay Daly and Putman's father Clive. Putman tells the TechCentral Show about: • How the deal with Nedbank happened; • The origins of iKhokha and its growth over the past 13 years, leading to the sale to Nedbank – a deal that is still subject to regulatory approval; • How iKhokha will work with Nedbank (it will remain an independent brand within the banking group), including a possible expansion into new markets in Africa; and • The exit of iKhokha's backers, including Crossfin Technology Holdings, Apis Partners and the International Finance Corporation. Don't miss a great discussion! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | Kinetic Skunk: fintechs risk cloud bill shock without proper planning

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 37:38


Fintechs choose cloud technologies in the hopes that the efficiency and scalability of cloud computing will give them a competitive advantage. But cloud adoption is no silver bullet. If done incorrectly, a migration to the cloud can cause costs to balloon instead of decreasing them, leading to frustration and even lost revenue. Kinetic Skunk is an Amazon Web Services-certified partner offering cloud solutions with a specialisation in fintech start-ups. In this episode of TechCentral's TCS+, Donovan Mulder, CEO at Kinetic Skunk, explains the ins and outs of cloud adoption for fintech companies. Mulder delves into: • The importance of timing when it comes to cloud adoption and when the best time is to plan for a migration into the cloud. • Common errors fintechs that have already migrated to the cloud make that can cause costs to balloon out of control. • Why developers are often not the right people to handle cloud infrastructure architecting and provisioning (hint: it's a completely different skill set). • How gaps in cloud infrastructure architecture can lead to security holes. • The cost optimisation tools available in the AWS cloud environment. • How tools such as the AWS well-architected framework help fintech's comply with regulations such as Popia and Fica. • Advice for South African fintechs before their next cloud bill arrives. Don't miss the discussion! TechCentral

The Money Show
Vodacom's R13bn fibre deal gets court nod; Immersive cinema experience returns to Joburg

The Money Show

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2025 39:07 Transcription Available


Stephen Grootes speaks to Duncan McLeod, Founder and Editor at Techcentral, about Vodacom's acquisition of a 30% stake in Maziv receiving approval from the Competition Appeal Court, marking a significant milestone in the R13 billion fibre merger deal. In other interviews, the SecreEats Events Director for South Africa, Darren Meltz, chats about the return of Secret Cinema, an immersive cinematic experience in Johannesburg featuring exclusive screenings, high tea, and bespoke cocktails in an elegant, secretive setting. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape. Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa Follow us on social media 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalkCapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalkCapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Best of the Money Show
Vodacom's R13bn fibre deal gets boost with court approval

The Best of the Money Show

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2025 6:22 Transcription Available


Stephen Grootes speaks to Duncan McLeod, Founder and Editor at Techcentral, about Vodacom's acquisition of a 30% stake in Maziv receiving approval from the Competition Appeal Court, marking a significant milestone in the R13 billion fibre merger deal. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TechCentral Podcast
TCS | Alan Knott-Craig unveils Fibertime's big bet on township fibre

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2025 22:19


Alan Knott-Craig's new fibre internet business has been flying below the radar for some time now, but the serial telecommunications entrepreneur has finally unpacked his plans for the business. Speaking to the TechCentral Show this week, Knott-Craig – who has led a range of well-known tech businesses, including Mxit, World of Avatar, Project Isizwe and iBurst – talks about why he believes there's money to be made in wiring up townships with fibre and how Fibertime (stylised as “fibertime”) hopes to reach millions of data-poor South Africans who, until now, have had to rely on expensive mobile data for connectivity. In the interview, with TechCentral editor Duncan McLeod, Knott-Craig also chats about: • What's been involved in building Fibertime; • The Fibertime business model and the economics of township fibre; • The network's footprint and where the company plans to build next (it is currently deploying infrastructure in Alexandra in Johannesburg); • Why fibre beats wireless for township internet services; • The difficulties of working in township settings, including the threat posed by crime; • Plans to list the business, possibly in 2027; and • The recently approved Vodacom/Maziv deal, and what that means for the telecoms sector. Don't miss a fascinating interview! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS | Pick n Pay's Enrico Ferigolli on building asap! and taking on Shoprite

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 49:30


Although Shoprite Group stole a march on many of South Africa's retailers in on-demand online grocery delivery during the Covid-19 lockdowns, Pick n Pay has a clear plan to make up lost ground and compete aggressively for market share. Enrico Ferigolli, who co-founded the liquor delivery app Bottles – which was later acquired by Pick n Pay to form the basis of its online shopping push with asap! – joins the TechCentral Show to unpack the journey Pick n Pay is on, and how the e-commerce market is likely to develop in the coming years. Ferigolli tells TechCentral editor Duncan McLeod about: * Why and how technology has become fundamental to modern retail; * The launch of Bottles and what led to the Pick n Pay acquisition; * The dynamics of on-demand delivery and what it takes to be a successful player; * How Pick n Pay is working to convince people to try asap! for their grocery needs; * The role of AI (and AI agents) in future omnichannel retail environments; How online shopping is likely to change the way Pick n Pay designs its physical stores; * Pick n Pay's relationship with Takealot Group, and where that alliance is headed; * Pick n Pay's plans to expand into townships and other underserved markets with on-demand deliveries; and * The threat posed by international e-commerce companies that don't have a presence in South Africa but which ship goods to local consumers. It's a great interview about the future of e-commerce in South Africa – be sure not to miss it! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | Cassava's Adil El Youssefi on data centre growth in Africa

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 30:07


In this episode of TCS+, Adil El Youssefi, newly appointed CEO of the colocation business at Cassava Technologies and CEO of Africa Data Centres, chats about the challenges and opportunities in sub-Saharan Africa. El Youssefi delves into: • His background prior to being appointed into the role and how it has influenced his career as a technologist; • His personal connection to the African continent and why growing its digital economy excites him; • The data traffic boom taking place in Africa and the drivers behind it; • The industries fuelling the demand for data centre capacity on the continent; • The infrastructural challenges dampening data centre growth and the different ways they are being surmounted; and • What the future of data centres looks like in sub-Saharan Africa; Don't miss the discussion! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
Watts & Wheels Ep 3: 'We drive the new Dongfeng Box'

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 46:08


The Dongfeng Box electric city runabout has landed in South Africa, and Watts & Wheels has taken the vehicle – one of the cheapest electric cars currently on sale in the country – for a test drive. One of China's biggest and oldest motoring manufacturers, the state-owned Dongfeng Motor Corporation has identified South Africa as a key export market and, through E Auto Motor, has launched the brand in South Africa – starting with the Dongfeng Box, whose pricing begins at R460 000. Watts & Wheels hosts William Kelly and Duncan McLeod take the Box for a drive around Johannesburg and share their thoughts on this intriguing and relatively low-cost hatchback designed for urban and city driving. Also in this final episode of the three-part pilot season of Watts & Wheel, William and Duncan get animated about: • The state of the EV charging infrastructure market in South Africa – and is it getting overtraded?; • A new report on EV sales in South Africa over the next five years; • Chery's reporting plans to build a car plant in South Africa; • The challenges at Mercedes-Benz South Africa's East London production plant, especially in the light of US President Donald Trump's tariff wars; • Tesla's challenge to the like of Waymo – a look at Elon Musk's determination to win in autonomous ride-hailing services; • Xiaomi's beautiful YU7 and how it's going toe-to-toe with Tesla in China; • What's happening at Porsche; and • Christian Horner's exit at Red Bull Racing. Don't miss this episode. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
Watts & Wheels Ep 2: ‘We test drive the Riddara electric bakkie'

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2025 49:15


Enviro Automotive has launched the Riddara RD6, South Africa's first fully electric 4x4 bakkie – and Watts & Wheels has taken it for a test drive. In episode 2 of Watts & Wheels – the brand-new South Africa motoring show from TechCentral (subscribe on YouTube) – hosts William Kelly and Duncan McLeod throw the Riddara around some corners and chat with Enviro Automotive's Francois Malan about why the company has introduced the Geely Auto-owned brand in South Africa. If you miss Ep 1 of Watts & Wheels, catch it here. Also in this week's episode of Watts & Wheels: • Ford's beastly new Ranger Raptor vs BYD's Shark 6 sprint to the chequered flag (can you guess which one won?); • What to expect at SA Auto Week in Gqeberha in October amid immense pressure on the local motor manufacturing industry; • Why William thinks Ashok Leyland's new “no-frills” EV truck could prove to be a big hit in South Africa; • Huawei's new supercar, the Maextro S800, developed in collaboration with JAC Group, and why we're excited about it; • Why Xiaomi's new SU7 Ultra sportscar should have Porsche and even Rimac concerned; and • The flying cars are here (well, kind of). Subscribe to the channel on YouTube and never miss an episode! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | Zahir Cajee on Samsung's new Galaxy Z Fold7, Flip7 and Watch8 line-up

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 18:47


Folding phones are advancing at light speed. For consumers, the appeal is self-evident: on one hand, folding phones give them the option to have a larger, tablet-like interface that offers enhanced productivity and a better user experience. On the other hand, the fit-in-your-pocket design when folded maintains easy portability. Samsung pioneered the folding phone category in South Africa with the first-generation Galaxy Fold in 2019. The Z Fold series is now in its seventh generation, with the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 launched earlier this month. In this episode of TechCentral's TCS+, Zahir Cajee, mobile experience lead for product and commercial services at Samsung South Africa, talks through the design elements and software features in the newest foldables. Cajee delves into: • What smartphone manufacturers like Samsung are trying to achieve with foldable phones; • The market segments Samsung's Z Fold and Z Flip phones appeal to; • The latest features in the new Z Fold7 and Z Flip7; • The Z Fold7's new 200-megapixel camera; • Samsung's thinking behind the introduction of the lower-cost Samsung Flip7 FE; • The AI features in the new Galaxy Watch8; and • When the new devices are going to be available and how much they'll cost. Don't miss the discussion. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS | Britehouse MBO: Graham Parker on what's next for software firm

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 25:17


A recent management buyout of Britehouse from NTT Data – previously Dimension Data – has put the software development house on a new trajectory. In this episode of the TechCentral Show, Duncan McLeod chats to Britehouse executive chairman Graham Parker about the MBO of Britehouse Mobility and what it means for the future of the business. Dimension Data acquired the 60% of Britehouse it didn't already own in a 2015 transaction, buying out shareholders that included Remgro and Convergence Partners. The IT group had held a 40% stake since 2007 before buying out other shareholders eight years later. “Britehouse is embarking on a new era of innovation and independence following a management buyout transaction that effectively acquired the business from NTT Data,” a statement at the time said. “The acquisition from NTT Data marks a pivotal moment in Britehouse's journey.” Following the deal, Britehouse Mobility will operate as a fully independent company. The Britehouse brand will cease to exist inside NTT Data, but the latter will retain the enterprise applications business, with specific focus on SAP and Microsoft, it said. “After several successful years of operating as part of the global NTT Data group, Britehouse is excited to return to its roots as an independent, South African-led business,” said Parker at the time. Parker tells the TechCentral Show about: • His history with Dimension Data and Britehouse; • The story of Britehouse; and • What the business looks like today, and management's plans for growth. Don't miss the discussion! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
Meet the CIO | How Marijke Guest steered Nedbank through an IT crisis

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 56:36


When Nedbank realised early last year that its mammoth core banking overhaul and modernisation programme was going awry, it turned to Marijke Guest for help. Guest, CIO of Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) and payments and a veteran of the financial services group, tells TechCentral's Meet the CIO about how the bank realised it was headed for trouble, and what it took to get the project back on track and delivered – all in little under a year. According to Nedbank, the project was thought to be 80% complete, but when it was reassessed in January 2024, it became clear that only around 20% of the actual scope had been delivered. “Designs were incomplete,” the bank said. “Engineering practices were out of date. Key components, such as the liability rates engine, product lifecycle workflows and real-time processing, were either broken or unbuilt. The programme was years behind its intended outcomes, and the bank's reputation was at stake.” Guest, who has worked at Nedbank for the past 25 years, tells Meet the CIO's Duncan McLeod about: • When and why Nedbank first decided it needed to modernise its core banking systems and what the project would entail; • What's involved in an undertaking like this, and why there's potential for things to go wrong that could lead to huge cost overruns – as has happened at other South African banks that have embarked on similar modernisation programmes; • What Nedbank's core banking modernisation project aimed to achieve, and why it was at risk of being derailed; • What she did to get it back on track and motivate the IT teams involved; • What it took to get everyone to start pulling in the same direction and ensure the project was delivered on time with zero reputational impact to the bank; • How she coped with the immense pressure she and her teams were under from the board and top management to get the project done right, on time and within budget; • What Nedbank can do now that it couldn't do before, and how that positions it next to its rivals – both the traditional banks and the new digital bank challengers that have emerged in recent years; and • What CIOs who are embarking on similarly complex IT projects can learn from Nedbank's project – including the pitfalls they should watch out for, and what areas they should be careful not to neglect. Guest was ultimately awarded Nedbank's Chief Executive Award for her leadership of the project. No one involved in IT management should miss this fascinating discussion! TechCentral

Afternoon Drive with John Maytham
Power Play: Who's in the Driver's Seat in the MultiChoice–Canal+ Merger?

Afternoon Drive with John Maytham

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 10:02 Transcription Available


John Maytham speaks to Duncan McLeod, founder and editor of the tech news site TechCentral, to unpack what the Competition Tribunal’s approval means, and what lies ahead for both companies — and for South African media consumers. While Canal+ brings scale and capital to a struggling MultiChoice, local regulators have secured firm conditions to preserve South African control, jobs, and transformation goals. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TechCentral Podcast
Watts & Wheels Ep 1: ‘BYD Shark 6 and the electric bakkie revolution'

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 57:54


This is Watts & Wheels, a new motoring show hosted by motoring journalist (and “buzzhead” – or is that “electronhead”?) William Kelly and TechCentral editor (and wannabe EV owner) Duncan McLeod. With a focus on the shift to electric motoring, the pilot season of Watts & Wheels consists of three episodes. The focus of the show is the “lived EV experience”, with the aim of helping “dispel some of the misconceptions” about owning and driving an EV in South Africa. What else can you expect from Watts & Wheels? We'll look at the latest EV models – from mild hybrids to plug-in hybrids and full battery-electric vehicles – making their way to South African shores. We'll also test drive many of them for the show. We'll also look at the business of motoring, and the challenges and opportunities facing the local industry amid the tectonic shifts that are remaking the global automotive sector, including the rapid rise of Chinese EV brands. Whether you're pondering your first EV purchase, are keen to understand the nuances of local charging networks or are simply fascinated by the future of sustainable transport, let Watts & Wheels be your guide. In episode 1, William and Duncan dive into: • The different types of new energy vehicles available in South Africa, explaining terms like EV, BEV, HEV, PHEV and REEV. What do they all mean, and how are prospective buyers to choose between these technologies? • Should consumers really be worried about long-term battery health in EVs? Spoiler alert: no! In fact, the data now shows battery endurance in EVs has been vastly underestimated. • The power of VTOL, or vehicle-to-load, technology and how it can be used to power everything from a kettle to your house. • The electrification of bakkies, including a look at BYD's exciting new Shark 6 PHEV (and whether it can beat the monstrous 3l Ford Raptor from a standing start to 100km/h); Nissan's sexy Frontier PHEV (not confirmed for South Africa); and Ford's new PHEV Ranger (made in Silverton in Pretoria). • The controversial Jaguar Type 00 – and why William thinks why the critics have it completely wrong. If you like what you see, please subscribe to Watts & Wheels on YouTube – and share the word with family and friends. It's also available as an audio podcast in your favourite podcasting app. In episode 2, out next week, look out for an exclusive look at – and first media test drive of – South Africa's first 4x4 fully electric bakkie. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | Lessons from South Africa's biggest cyberattacks

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 15:59


IT security breaches are on the rise in South Africa and worldwide, and with AI tools at their disposal, criminals are scaling up their attacks. With the risk of attack so high, organisations are forced to look beyond beefing up security – they must prepare for the unfortunate event where their systems are, in fact, breached. One way to do this is to learn from those organisations whose systems have been breached in the past. This episode of TechCentral's TCS+, the third in a series of three with First Distribution on how to manage cyber crises – watch episodes 1 and 2 here – sees Microsoft portfolio manager at First Distribution Kejen Pillay back to share more insight on this topic. Pillay discusses various lessons from: - The TransUnion breach of March 2022, where 5.2 million records were compromised and a US$15-million ransom demanded; - The CIPC hack of February 2024 and the media furore that ensued; and - The National Health Laboratory Services breach of June 2024. Don't miss this important discussion. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | First Distribution's guide to a bulletproof cyber crisis response strategy

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 11:41


In cybersecurity, prevention is always better than cure. However, organisations have to prepare for the worst-case scenario, one where their systems are breached by cybercriminals. This is the second in a series of three podcasts on how to manage cyber crises effectively when they happen. The first episode – watch it here – centred on defining what a cyber crisis is and the different ways cybercriminals exploit an organisation. In episode 2, Kejen Pillay, portfolio manager for Microsoft at First Distribution, discusses the strategies and tools organisations use to craft an effective crisis response plan. Pillay delves into: • The elements of an effective crisis response plan; • The Microsoft tools businesses can use to prepare for a cyber crisis; • Backups and other tools that aid in the speedy recovery of operations following a cyber crisis; • The importance of training non-IT staff on what to do in a cyber crisis; • How AI tools can help protect organisations; and • Advice for organisations wanting to begin crafting their cyber crisis response plan. Don't miss the discussion. TechCentral

The Best of the Money Show
Canal+ and MultiChoice get green light for R53 billion deal

The Best of the Money Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 4:13 Transcription Available


Stephen Grootes speaks to Duncan McLeod from TechCentral, about Canal+ getting anti-trust approval for its R53 billion takeover of MultiChoice, clearing the way to form Africa’s largest pay-TV and streaming group. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | How cyberthreats turn into cyber crises

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 13:57


In today's hyperconnected society, a cybersecurity crisis isn't just a technical glitch; it's a profound disruption that can bring businesses, governments and even entire countries to a halt. For organisations to protect themselves effectively, they must understand what cybercriminals are capable of, where the vulnerabilities in their own systems are and – most importantly – be prepared for the worst-case scenario where their systems are breached. In this episode of TechCentral's TCS+, Kejen Pillay, Microsoft portfolio manager at First Distribution, discusses the anatomy of a cyber crisis and how businesses should prepare for it. Pillay delves into: • The difference between a cyberthreat and a cyber crisis; • How cybercriminals are using AI tools to develop increasingly sophisticated methods of attack; • How organisations can keep pace with the rapid changes in the threat landscape to keep their systems secure; • The difference between a crisis management plan and an incident response plan; • Some common errors businesses make when responding to a cyber crisis; and • What South Africa's leading organisations are doing to prepare for a cyber crisis. This informative show is not to be missed. * TCS+ episodes are sponsored TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | Vox's Craig Blignaut on the data boom and the future of Wi-Fi

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 14:54


Data is like oxygen in the digital era, and people are using more of it. In 2025 alone, global mobile data usage is projected to reach 200 exabytes per month. That is 200 billion gigabytes of data consumed monthly by everything from high-definition video streaming to online gaming and IoT. This trend has implications for infrastructure – in the home, in business and even in shared outdoor spaces. For the people consuming the data, connecting with ease as they migrate between different environments is paramount; but so is the privacy and integrity of their personal data. In this episode of TCS+, Vox Wi-Fi product manager Craig Blignaut discusses the trends in data consumption, their drivers and how Wi-Fi technology is evolving to meet people's needs. Blignaut delves into: • Why data has become the lifeblood of modern society; • How newer technologies like generative AI are shaping trends in data consumption; • The different ways people gain access to the internet; • How Wi-Fi has contributed to making the internet cheaper and more accessible; • How an enterprise's Wi-Fi experience contributes to how visitors experience a company's brand; and • The role is AI playing in enhancing network connectivity. Don't miss an informative discussion. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | Samsung unveils significant new safety feature for A-series phones

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 18:49


Samsung Electronics recently launched the latest line-up of its popular Galaxy A-series of midtier smartphones, with the A26, A36 and A56 replacing the older A25, A35 and A55 models. One of the most notable new features of the A-series is a curated artificial intelligence module, dubbed Awesome Intelligence, that brings powerful AI features previously exclusive to its top-tier Galaxy S-series phones to its midrange devices for the first time. Unique to the A-series is a new safety feature called Samsung SOS+, a free-to-use, 24/7 subscription service exclusive to owners of the new Galaxy A56, A36 and A26 devices. In an emergency situation – and on-demand – the service immediately geolocates the user and sends private security and medical emergency services to their location at the press of a button. In this episode of TCS+, Justin Hume, vice president for mobile at Samsung Electronics South Africa, tells TechCentral about how SOS+ works in the new Galaxy A-series line-up. Hume delves into: • The inspiration behind SOS+ and why Samsung has chosen the A series to pilot the service; • How the service works and its benefits for A-series smartphone users; • Why the service is currently limited to users of the A56, A36 and A26 devices and Samsung's plans for expanded roll-out; • Key features that set the SOS+ service apart; and • Why Samsung has chosen Aura as its partner in providing the SOS+ service. Don't miss a fascinating discussion! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | MVNX on the opportunities in South Africa's booming MVNO market

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 23:42


For years, mobile telecommunications was dominated by a handful of large operators, or MNOs. Now, with almost 30 MVNOs, or mobile virtual network operators, serving niche consumer bases in banking, retail and education, among other sectors, the MVNO market is thriving. However, brands looking to take advantage of this boom and add mobile services to their offerings are not guaranteed success. There are several critical decisions regarding strategy, process and choosing the right technology platform that are key to building a critical mass of loyal MVNO customers. In this episode of TCS+, Daniel Swart, chief commercial officer at MVNX, an MVNO enablement specialist, discusses the opportunities and threats facing MVNOs in South Africa today. Swart Delves into: • The services MVNX, as an MVNO enabler, offers to brands looking to launch MVNO services in South Africa; • How South Africa's MVNO market has developed since its inception in 2006 with the entry of now-defunct Virgin Mobile; • The markers of success separating successful MVNOs from those that have struggled to gain a foothold in the market; • The benefits MVNO brands reap from using an enablement platform to launch and distribute their mobile services; • The importance of understanding the competitive dynamics of the MVNO market and how new MVNOs should position themselves; • The regulatory aspects of running an MVNO; and • International MVNO trends Swart believes are likely to be emulated in South Africa. This discussion is not to be missed. TechCentral

The Best of the Money Show
Vodacom's bid for Vumatel owner Maziv is back after a major twist

The Best of the Money Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 6:24 Transcription Available


Stephen Grootes speaks to Duncan McLeod, Founder and Editor at Techcentral, about the recent agreement between Vodacom and Maziv, in partnership with the Competition Commission, which revises conditions to address competition concerns and potentially paves the way for the R14 billion merger deal to proceed. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape. Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa Follow us on social media 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalkCapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalkCapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TechCentral Podcast
TCS | Connecting Saffas – Renier Lombard on The Lekker Network

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 20:39


The Lekker Network is a recently launched global business platform designed to help South African expatriates find business and investment opportunities around the world, including at home. Founded by a group of well-known businesspeople, The Lekker Network was launched in March and offers members access to a business directory, a jobs portal (for employers and job seekers), a social platform with “likeminded individuals” and events around the world for people, including non-South Africans, to meet up. Renier Lombard, a co-founder of The Lekker Network, is our guest on this episode of the TechCentral Show. He said the platform, whose ambassadors include well-known journalist and speaker Bruce Whitfield and former Springbok and now businessman Bob Skinstad, is designed to “forge connections between South African businesses and businesspeople, regardless of their location”. In this episode of TCS, Lombard unpacks: • Who founded The Lekker Network and why; • Who it is aimed at and who can join; • How much it costs and what members get for the fee; • The markets where The Lekker Network is focused – not surprisingly, the attention is on countries where there are a large number of South African expats; • How (and why) non-South Africans can join the network; and • The importance of the tech sector, including start-ups, to The Lekker Network community. Don't miss the interview! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TechCentral Nexus S0E4: Takealot's big Post Office jobs plan

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2025 19:21


This is the fourth episode of a new podcast series curated by TechCentral's editorial team and generated by artificial intelligence tools. It's an experiment that's in beta for now, but if it works well, we'll consider making it a regular feature by launching a season 1. In this episode, we highlight some of the biggest technology news stories from South Africa and the world over the last week, as covered by TechCentral. Note that even using the most accurate and reliable sources, AI can and will occasionally make mistakes. In this episode, we look at: • Takealot's talks about hiring thousands of retrenched Post Office employees to support its e-commerce expansion plans; • Why South Africans' use of cash is costing the economy billions of rand a year, according to the Reserve Bank; • City Power's plan to roll out electric vehicle charging stations in Johannesburg; • The Internet Service Providers' Association's view of communications minister Solly Malatsi's plan to introduce equity equivalence in licensing in the ICT sector; • Intel's pivot to the “14A” manufacturing technology and what it means in its fight with TSMC for foundry customers; • Bank Zero's sale to Lesaka Technologies; and • The mental health impact of AI chatbots. Again, this podcast is experimental. We welcome your feedback. Would you like this podcast to become a regular feature? Is there anything you'd like us to improve? Is it too short or too long? Drop us a line at nexus@techcentral.co.za. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | First Distribution on the latest and greatest cloud technologies

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 11:08


The pace of innovation in the cloud space is breathtaking. Gone are the days when the cloud was just about virtual machines and storage; today, it is a dynamic ecosystem, constantly introducing features that are fundamentally transforming how businesses operate, from the smallest start-ups to the largest enterprises. Preegan Chetty, Azure product manager at First Distribution, returns to TechCentral's TCS+ to discuss some of the latest and most exciting features available in the Azure cloud environment and how businesses are leveraging those capabilities to facilitate growth. This is the third in a series of three episodes with Chetty and First Distribution. Episode one covered cloud cost optimisation in Azure and episode two looked at how businesses can manage the complexities of data residency in hybrid cloud environments. In this episode, Chetty delves into: • The benefits cloud-based IT environments offer over on-prem installations and how they help companies experiment and adopt new technologies faster; • How businesses can ensure they are able to keep pace with new technologies so they are not left behind; • How South African businesses are using the newest AI tools in Azure to build new products and services; • How to approach responsible AI development in the cloud; • How cloud AI tools can help with code modernisation; • How small businesses can take advantage of cloud technology; and • Emerging cloud technologies to keep an eye on. This discussion is not to be missed. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | First Distribution on data governance in hybrid cloud environments

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 12:32


Data is the lifeblood of every organisation, driving innovation, enhancing customer experiences and influencing strategic decisions. But managing this invaluable asset has never been more challenging. Hybrid IT environments – where some organisational data sits in the cloud other data resides in on-premises infrastructure – only adds to this complexity. In this second episode in a series of three delving into the ins and outs of Azure cloud deployments, Preegan Chetty, Azure product manager at First Distribution, discusses the data governance procedures that ensure organisational data is stored in the most useful, cost-effective and compliant ways. The first episode centred on effective cost management techniques for the Azure cloud environment. You can watch that episode here. In this episode, Chetty delves into: • Why the complexity of data governance increases when organisations migrate from on-premises to hybrid cloud environments; • The factors organisations should consider when deciding which data they should keep where; • What Dora legislation is and how it affects the hybrid data strategies of South African organisations; • Other legislation impacting data governance in South Africa; • The tools Azure provides to help data architects structure distributed data in ways that do not have a negative impact on performance; • Data governance for disaster recovery; and • The impact data governance decisions have on an organisation's cloud costs. Don't miss an informative discussion! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | First Distribution on cloud cost management in Microsoft Azure

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 13:17


Organisations are flocking to the cloud for its agility, scalability and innovation potential. But while the cloud promises big things, it also presents a set of financial challenges. Many businesses find their cloud bills spiralling out of control, eroding the very benefits they sought in the first place. In this episode of TechCentral's TCS+, Preegan Chetty, Microsoft Azure product manager at First Distribution, discusses the tools Azure provides for effective cost management and how businesses can take advantage of them to get the most out their cloud deployments without breaking the bank. Chetty delves into: • Some of the common pitfalls or hidden costs that organisations encounter when moving their workloads into the cloud and how to mitigate against these; • The different pricing models available in Azure and how organisations can leverage them; • What FinOps is and how businesses can benefit from it; • How organisational KPIs can be leveraged to manage cloud spending effectively; • How tagging can aid in cost centre management; • How to manage costs in more complex hybrid cloud environments; and • The AI tools Azure offers to aid businesses in managing their costs. This episode is not to be missed. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
Nexus S0E3: Behind Takealot's revenue surge

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 16:26


This is the third episode of a new podcast series curated by TechCentral's editorial team and generated by artificial intelligence tools. It's an experiment that's in beta for now, but if it works well, we'll consider making it a regular feature by launching a season 1. Note that even using the most accurate and reliable sources, AI can and will occasionally make mistakes. In this episode, we highlight some of the biggest technology news stories from South Africa and the world over the last week, as covered by TechCentral. In this episode, we look at: • Takealot Group's strong top-line performance; • The profit surge at Prosus and what's driving it; • The over-capacity crisis hitting China's motoring industry; • How Oracle, a dowdy database developer, got a new lease on life; • Jaltech's decision to back solar specialist Wetility; and • The State IT Agency hits back at its critics in government; Again, this podcast is experimental. We welcome your feedback. Would you like this podcast to become a regular feature? Is there anything you'd like us to improve? Is it too short or too long? Drop us a line at nexus@techcentral.co.za. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS | South Africa's Sociable wants to make social media social again

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 23:32


The digitisation of social interactions has made it easier for people to maintain contact and build online communities. However, there has been a decrease in in-person interaction that has contributed to a sense of disconnect. South African-made social media platform Sociable hopes to solve this problem by combining online engagement with in-person meetups, connecting people based on shared interests. In this episode of the TechCentral Show, Sociable co-founder and CEO Jason van Dyk tells TechCentral's Nathi Ndlovu about the importance of community and how Sociable is helping drive its development. In the show, Van Dyk delves into: • How community builders benefit from using the Sociable platform; • The features Sociable provides to communities and their members to enhance engagement; • How meeting spaces including coffee shops, bars and restaurants benefit from the in-person component of Sociable's community meetups; • Sociable's approach to safety for its users; • How Sociable positions itself against large social media platforms like Facebook; • Some of the most popular communities on the platform; and • The impact of AI on the social media landscape. Don't miss the conversation! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS | Tech, townships and tenacity: Spar's plan to win with Spar2U

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 22:36


Spar Group is determined to play a significant role in the on-demand grocery delivery space in South Africa despite coming from behind, its omnichannel executive for Southern Africa has told TechCentral. Speaking to the TechCentral Show, Blake Raubenheimer took the publication's editor, Duncan McLeod, through the retailer's plan to compete directly with the likes of Shoprite Holdings' Sixty60, which gained an early market lead during the Covid lockdowns. Spar has every intention of becoming a meaningful player in app-based on-demand deliveries, according to Raubenheimer, who unpacked the retailer's plan to gain market share in the increasingly competitive but fast-expanding segment with Spar2U. South Africa's grocery sector has become increasingly competitive as price-conscious consumers look for value, convenience and distinctive products. Shoprite and Woolworths are keeping their rivals on their toes as they continue to sign up customers. Pick n Pay, which is also coming from behind, is aggressively targeting the space, too. In this episode of the TechCentral Show, Raubenheimer discusses: * How Spar's business model – the vast majority of stores are run by franchisees – has complicated its move into the on-demand grocery game, and how it's working to turn this to its advantage; * How Spar is working to convince consumers to try Spar2U over other on-demand services; * The group's broader omnichannel strategy, where the retailer is positioned in the market, where it wants to get to, and how it plans to do it; * Its focus on the township and rural markets through partnerships with companies like KasiD and Delivery Ka Speed – and why it's important; Spar's partnership with Uber Eats; * How Spar's SAP enterprise software implementation in KwaZulu-Natal went awry and how it impacted the retailer; and * What Spar is working on from a technology perspective. Don't miss a fascinating discussion about how technology is transforming the retail industry in South Africa. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | AfriGIS's Helen Hulett on how tech can help resolve South Africa's water crisis

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2025 26:29


Many municipalities in South Africa are struggling to maintain a reliable supply of clean water to households and industries. Thankfully, technology is here to help. In this episode of TechCentral's TCS+, Helen Hulett, newly appointed chief sustainability officer at geospatial information science specialist AfriGIS, tells Duncan McLeod about the Resolve Water project that she leads and how she and her team are working with businesses and municipalities to try to address a problem that has reached crisis levels in some parts of the country. AfriGIS's technology is able to have a real-world impact on this crisis, according to Hulett, who specialises in industrial water risk, water-related governance and social issues, and sustainability. Hulett, who has consulted with leading companies on the topic – they include the likes of Coca-Cola, Illovo Sugar Africa, Sappi, Aspen Pharmacare and Sasol – said AfriGIS offers advanced mapping and data analytics tools to address water scarcity, improve resource management and support businesses in need. In this episode of TCS+, Hulett also unpacks: • Her background and why she took the role of chief sustainability officer at AfriGIS; • What the field of geospatial information science involves and why it makes sense to apply it to this crisis; • AfriGIS's involvement in the Resolve Water project; • How serious the water crisis really is in South Africa and what it will take to address it; • The impact of the Resolve Water project so far, and how it's using GIS technology to achieve its goals – including mapping, real-time data analytics and collaborative partnerships; and • The role of artificial intelligence. The interview with Hulett, who is passionate about the topic of water security in South Africa, is not to be missed. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TechCentral Nexus S0E2 (beta): South Africa's digital battlefield

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 27:01


This is the second (and beta) episode of a new podcast series curated by TechCentral's editorial team and generated by artificial intelligence tools. It's an experiment for now, but if it works well, we'll consider making it a regular feature by launching a season 1. Note that even using the most accurate and reliable sources, AI can and will occasionally make mistakes. In this episode, we highlight several key developments in South Africa's ICT sector, including the intense capex competition among Vodacom, MTN and Telkom that reveals a fierce battle for network supremacy and market share within the mobile telecommunications sector. Concurrently, the surge in mobile virtual network operators is reshaping the South African mobile market, also fostering increased competition and delivering specialised offerings for consumers. Also this week: an uproar over home affairs' proposed database fee increases; the proliferation of Starlink and other low-Earth orbit satellites present a significant threat to radio astronomy in the Karoo; and AI comes to Wimbledon. Again, this is experimental. We welcome your feedback. Would you like this podcast to become a regular feature? Is there anything you'd like us to improve? Is it too short or too long? Drop us a line at nexus@techcentral.co.za. TechCentral

The Money Show
SA eyes 15% import tax on EV batteries; Icasa to decide on Starlink licence

The Money Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 74:11


Stephen Grootes speaks to Ayabonga Cawe, Chief Commissioner of the International Trade Administration Commission about South Africa's proposed 15% import tax on new energy vehicle batteries, aimed at boosting local production capacity and attracting original equipment manufacturers to set up units in the country. In other interviews: Duncan McLeod, Founder and Editor at Techcentral talks about the decision to award Elon Musk's Starlink an operating license in the country resting in the hands of the industry regulator, Icasa, despite Musk's refusal to comply with black empowerment rules, which he deems "openly racist". The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape. Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa Follow us on social media 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalkCapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalkCapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Best of the Money Show
Icasa will decide on Starlink's SA licence

The Best of the Money Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 4:39


Stephen Grootes speaks to Duncan McLeod, Founder and Editor at Techcentral, about the decision that awarding Elon Musk's Starlink an operating license in the country will rest with the industry regulator, Icasa, despite Musk's refusal to comply with black empowerment rules, which he deems "openly racist". The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TechCentral Podcast
Nexus S0E1 (beta): Starlink, BEE and a new leader at Vodacom

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2025 59:31


This is the first (and beta) episode of a new podcast series curated by TechCentral's editorial team and generated by artificial intelligence tools. It's an experiment for now, but if it works well, we'll make it a regular feature. Note that even using the most accurate and reliable sources (human-generated articles from TechCentral and other reliable media sources), AI can and does make mistakes. Again, this is experimental. We welcome your feedback. Would you like this podcast to become a regular feature on TechCentral? Is there anything you'd like to improve? Drop us a line at info@techcentral.co.za - we'd love to hear from you. TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS | The future of mobile money, with MTN's Kagiso Mothibi

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2025 38:07


Mobile money has an increasingly vital role to play in South Africa's economy, despite the fact that the country boasts an advanced financial services sector. That's the view of Kagiso Mothibi, CEO of Fintech at MTN South Africa, who was sharing his views in a recent interview with TechCentral's TCS+ (watch it below) in which he discusses the broader fintech vision for the network operator and its role in driving innovation across the group. But what is it about mobile money services that is attracting South African consumers to products like MTN's MoMo, and what role do these platforms fulfil in the broader financial services ecosystem? Mothibi unpacks this in detail in the interview. He also discusses: • Why South Africa has proved to be a tougher mobile money market to crack than many other countries in Africa; • How the South African market differs from others in which MTN operates; • Who the target market is for MoMo – is it the unbanked and underbanked, or does MTN also have plans to serve well-heeled customers, too? • What's driving the growth in MoMo services in South Africa and why; • What MTN's fintech portfolio houses today and the company's plans to expand this in the coming years; • The recent launched of MoMo Pay, how it works and how MTN is onboarding merchants; • What pain points MoMo Pay addresses in the payments ecosystem; and • What the future holds for the fintech business in South Africa – and how product innovation locally is being deployed in other MTN markets across the continent. Don't miss an exciting interview! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS | Nomvuyiso Batyi on Starlink, BEE reform and spectrum

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2025 50:39


What should one make of the noise surrounding the licensing (or non-licensing) of Starlink in South Africa? And what of the plans to reform the rules around black economic empowerment in the sector? To make sense of these developments – and others – TechCentral editor Duncan McLeod sat down this week with Nomvuyiso Batyi, CEO of the Association for Comms & Technology (ACT), an industry body that represents South Africa's six largest telecommunications operators: MTN, Telkom, Vodacom, Rain, Liquid Intelligent Technologies and Cell C. In the interview, for the TechCentral Show, Batyi unpacked communications minister Solly Malatsi's draft policy directive to communications regulator Icasa on so-called “equity equivalents” and why ACT believes there needs to be fairness in the licensing process. If the new rules apply to satellite operators, she said, they should apply to all licensees in the sector equally, including the big telecoms operators ACT represents. In the show, she also discussed: • Whether Starlink – and other low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite internet companies pose a threat or an opportunity for South Africa's network operators; • The role of LEO satellite operators in South Africa's future telecommunications mix – and can they help bridge the digital divide?; • The latest on the planned switch-off of 2G and 3G networks in South Africa, and why 3G will be the first to go; • Whether national treasury's recent move to cut ad valorem tax on basic smartphones goes far enough – and what other measures ACT would like to see to get smartphones in the hands of everyone in South Africa; and • What is happening regarding the next spectrum auction. Don't miss a great discussion! TechCentral

TechCentral Podcast
TCS+ | AI is more than hype: Workday execs unpack real human impact

TechCentral Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 41:25


Forget the hype, embrace the revolution! In this episode of TCS+, TechCentral speaks with Workday South Africa country manager Kiv Moodley and manager of solutions consulting Jannie Malan to dissect the critical intersection of artificial intelligence and human potential. Malan oversees the solution consulting team, engaging with prospects and clients to understand their challenges and demonstrate how Workday's technology can enable them to achieve their vision. Both Moodley and Malan, who coincidentally joined Workday on the very day its South African office launched in 2018, brought seven years of frontline experience to the discussion, proving that AI isn't just a buzzword – it's already shaping our world. TCS+ host Jaydev Chiba sat down with the two men to discuss the topic of “Human by design: real-world AI, real human impact”. Experts note that AI, like other technologies, might be overestimated in the short term but underestimated in the long term. Overcoming initial apprehension requires understanding what AI is, and understanding helps reveal its potential to allow humans to be more productive and efficient. AI is not a silver bullet; its value is realised when it's embedded, understood and utilised effectively. The conversation highlighted several use cases, both personal and within business. Examples ranged from leveraging tools like Grok, ChatGPT and Gemini for productivity, and even a 10-year-old programming Alexa to tell a puppy it's mealtime. Another use case included using AI for creating a training curriculum and visuals. Moodley and Malan noted that AI is already embedded in daily life through GPS, search and recommendations. For businesses, a key trend is using AI to improve employee productivity by automating repetitive and mundane tasks, giving people more time for higher-value work. Industries show different levels of adoption, from logistics using AI for warehouse safety, to healthcare for diagnosis and treatment development, and insurance for fraud detection and client profiling. This shift shows value emerging as industries figure out where AI provides maximum benefit. A significant portion of the discussion focused on the critical need for ethical and responsible AI use. With organisations facing pressure to adopt AI, establishing AI governance is foundational. This involves potentially creating AI governance roles, executive sponsorship, governance committees and risk matrices to manage data privacy, bias and transparency. The Workday executives stressed the importance of AI functioning within a larger technology framework, requiring organisations to address data quality, security and accessibility. Critically, the concept of keeping the human in the loop was emphasised, ensuring humans make final decisions based on AI-surfaced insights. Workday itself champions transparency, providing fact sheets or model cards to explain its AI models and how data is leveraged and bias mitigated. TechCentral

The Money Show
Is Elon Musk's satellite rushing towards SA?

The Money Show

Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2025 37:46


Stephen Grootes spoke to Duncan McLeod, Founder and Editor at Techcentral about the proposed policy direction for satellite operators in South Africa, which aims to establish a new licensing framework and potentially allow companies like Elon Musk's Starlink to operate in the country through an equity equivalent regulatory change. In other interviews, we hear about sustainable luxury art with Roberta Coci, one of the co-founders of RMB latitudes, who chats about the event's mission to create a more inclusive and accessible African art ecosystem. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Best of the Money Show
Is that Elon Musk's satellite rushing towards SA…and with special privileges ?

The Best of the Money Show

Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2025 8:48


Stephen Grootes spoke to Duncan McLeod, Founder and Editor at Techcentral about the proposed policy direction for satellite operators in South Africa, which aims to establish a new licensing framework and potentially allow companies like Elon Musk's Starlink to operate in the country through an equity equivalent regulatory change The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Best of the Money Show
Canal+ buyout: Sipho Maseko to invest in MultiChoice entity

The Best of the Money Show

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2025 4:48


Stephen Grootes talks to Duncan McLeod, Founder and Editor at Techcentral, about the proposed restructuring of MultiChoice to comply with South African broadcasting regulations, following Groupe Canal+'s acquisition bid.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Drive with John Maytham
ICASA's satellite licensing shake - up

Afternoon Drive with John Maytham

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2025 5:45


John Maytham speaks with Duncan McLeod, founder and editor of TechCentral, about ICASA’s proposed new satellite licensing framework and its implications for South Africa’s broadband landscape. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Money Show
The Money Show: Minister Appeals Tribunal's Block on Vodacom's R13.2 Billion Fibre Deal

The Money Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2024 80:33


Stephen Grootes speaks to Duncan McLeod, TechCentral's Founder and Editor, about South Africa's Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, appealing the Competition Tribunal's decision to block Vodacom's R13.2-billion deal to acquire a stake in Remgro's fibre businesses.    In other interviews on the Money Show, Ntlhane Makena, head of the Insolvency, Restructuring and Business Rescue practice at ENS talks about the surprising spike in company liquidations in October, following a notable decline in the first nine months of 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afternoon Drive with John Maytham
The digital switch-off: Delays, costs, and the road ahead

Afternoon Drive with John Maytham

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 6:37


Duncan McLeod, Editor of TechCentral, provides insights to John Maytham on South Africa's ongoing digital migration challengesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Money Show
The Money Show:  Unplugged: City Power's 'Unfair' Prepaid Electricity Cut-Offs

The Money Show

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 75:38


Stephen Grootes speaks to Councillor Nicole van Dyk about City Power's contentious disconnection policy affecting prepaid users, including solar power customers. In other interviews on this episode of The Money Show, Duncan McLeod, TechCentral's Founder and Editor, discusses the controversy surrounding the Competition Tribunal's veto of Vodacom's Maziv acquisition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.