Digital Retail Africa 2025: Shaping the Future of Retail

JOHANNESBURG, Dec. 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The retail industry is undergoing rapid transformation, and IT News Africa’s upcoming Digital Retail Africa 2025 is set to prepare businesses for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Taking place on 30 January 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), the event will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and decision–makers to explore strategies for thriving in the fast–evolving retail landscape.

Navigating a Disruptive Retail Environment

With global players such as Amazon, Temu, and Shein revolutionizing the African retail market, and grocery deliveries reshaping consumer expectations, businesses face unprecedented disruption. Digital Retail Africa 2025 will provide attendees with the tools and knowledge to stay competitive and future–proof their operations in this dynamic environment.

Innovation, Engagement, and Experience at the Core

The event will focus on key themes of innovation, engagement, and customer experience, offering insights and solutions to help businesses succeed in a customer–centric, technology–driven world.

Key Topics to Be Addressed Include:

  • The Rise of E–commerce Giants: Delivery Revolution
    Insights into logistics innovations redefining industry standards.
  • Understanding Consumer Behavior in the Digital Retail Landscape
    Strategies for creating personalized, data–driven retail experiences.
  • Emerging Trends in Digital Engagement and AI Integration
    Discussions on automation and other critical technologies shaping the future of retail.

Audience Profile

Digital Retail Africa 2025 is tailored for:

  • CEOs, COOs, CTOs and other decision–makers driving retail transformation.
  • E–commerce managers, digital marketers, and brand strategists optimizing customer engagement.
  • Supply chain and logistics professionals, data analysts, IT directors, and tech consultants seeking cutting–edge solutions.

The Importance of Attending

The event is designed to equip businesses with insights to adapt to shifting consumer behavior, implement emerging technologies, and overcome challenges in the digital marketplace. It offers a unique platform for professionals to learn, connect, and collaborate on strategies that will redefine retail in the post–pandemic era.

Opportunities for Sponsors

Sponsorship of Digital Retail Africa 2025 provides direct access to decision–makers and industry thought leaders. Sponsors benefit from exclusive visibility and lead generation opportunities, gaining a competitive edge in the market.

Top Reasons to Sponsor:

  1. Efficient lead generation with targeted audiences in one place.
  2. Increased brand visibility through a comprehensive marketing strategy.
  3. Direct engagement with decision–makers looking for solutions.
  4. Insights into audience challenges to position products effectively.
  5. Competitive advantage by reaching prospects first.
  6. High return on investment with access to potential new business opportunities.

Event Details and Registration

About Digital Retail Africa 2025
Digital Retail Africa 2025 is a flagship event focused on addressing the challenges and opportunities in Africa’s rapidly evolving retail sector. Through expert–led discussions, networking, and solution–focused sessions, the event aims to empower businesses to excel in a digital–first future.

For further information, visit the Digital Retail Africa website.


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001026151)

Transforming Finance Through Scalable Infrastructure: Join the Digital Finance Breakfast in Sandton

JOHANNESBURG, Oct. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IT News Africa, in partnership with OADC, is excited to announce an exclusive Digital Finance Breakfast on 29 October 2024 at the Radisson Blu, Sandton. This highly anticipated event will focus on the transformative role of digital infrastructure in the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sectors across Africa.

As the digital finance market in South Africa continues its rapid growth—reaching an estimated value of R240 billion ($13.5 billion) in 2023—financial institutions must evolve to meet the demands of this fast–paced landscape. The OADC Digital Finance Breakfast will bring together senior executives, IT leaders, and experts in the BFSI sector to explore how OADC’s cutting–edge digital solutions are driving this transformation.

WIOCC Group, the parent company of OADC, is at the forefront of Africa’s hyperscale digital infrastructure, providing scalable and reliable connectivity solutions to the wholesale community. This event is a key opportunity for financial leaders to understand how advanced infrastructure can enhance operational efficiency and future–proof their organizations.

Why Attend?

The OADC Digital Finance Breakfast offers attendees a unique opportunity to:

  • Exclusive Insights: Gain valuable knowledge on how innovative data centres and connectivity solutions can optimize digital operations in financial institutions.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with top executives, CIOs, CTOs, and IT leaders from across Africa’s BFSI sector to exchange best practices and foster collaboration.

Agenda Highlights:

  • AI–Powered Banks of the Future: Predicting the Next Generation of Financial Services
  • The Future of Finance with Scalable Digital Infrastructure
  • Revolutionizing BFSI through Hyperscale Digital Infrastructure
  • Digital Transformation in Financial Services

Key Speakers:

  • Carlos De Almeida, Director Sales South Africa, WIOCC Group
  • Dr. Yudhvir Seetharam, Head of Analytics, Insights, and Research, FNB Business

Event Details:

  • Date: 29 October 2024
  • Venue: Radisson Blu, Sandton
  • Time: 08h00 – 12h00

To secure your spot at this premier event, register now: https://itnewsafrica.com/event/oadc–agenda/#register

About OADC

Open Access Data Centres (OADC) – a WIOCC Group Company – has been established to transform the provision of data centre services for Africa. The company is implementing a world–class, carrier–neutral, pan–African data centre footprint that will deliver an unparalleled client experience, offering expert assistance and support, partnership in tailoring bespoke solutions and leading–edge information systems to support client business decision–making.

OADC is deploying its open–access, Tier–III hyperscale data centres at major cable landing locations and in key business hubs throughout Africa.

OADC EDGE data centres are being deployed into smaller locations, serving the ongoing need to support service providers in extending network reach and the growing requirement for content storage, processing and delivery at the network edge.


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IT Leaders Forum 2024 Gathers Top IT Decision-Makers for Insights on Resilience and Innovation

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IT News Africa is excited to announce IT Leaders Forum 2024, which will take place on November 5, 2024, at The Capital Empire in Sandton, South Africa. This premier event will bring together top technology decision–makers from diverse industries to explore strategies for resilience and innovation in the IT sector.

In the face of skilled labor shortages, economic uncertainty, and the rising demand for ESG compliance, IT leaders are increasingly turning to technology to enhance efficiency and profitability. The IT Leaders Forum 2024 (#ITLF2024) aims to help CIOs and IT executives tackle these business and technology challenges head–on. Industry experts will share insights on how to define and implement IT strategies that drive success.

“The IT Leaders Forum 2024 is more than just an event—it's a platform for collaboration and knowledge–sharing that enables CIOs and IT executives to turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities, driving sustainable growth in Africa's IT sector,” says Abe Wakama, CEO of IT News Africa. “Now more than ever, it’s essential for leaders to not only navigate these challenges but to turn them into opportunities for growth and transformation.”

IT leaders from will gather in Johannesburg to discuss IT trends, business transformation, and infrastructure management. This forum will equip attendees with the knowledge and tools to advance their digital strategies confidently.

Why Attend?

The IT Leaders Forum is designed to help CIOs, CTOs, CISOs and other IT leaders navigate the future of business and technology during these challenging times. Success requires a resilient and adaptive technology strategy that can withstand uncertainty while fostering innovation.

Leading experts and peers will explore the transformative potential of technology, sharing actionable insights to help define, validate, and execute your IT strategies. Attendees will dive into the latest developments in IT, business transformation, application modernization, and infrastructure management.

Key Speakers

The event will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including:

  • Satish Nrusimhadevara – Managing Director, Accenture
  • John Bosco Arends – Chairperson, Chartered CIO Council
  • Dr. Liam Terblanche – Chief Technology Officer, Airvantage
  • Manish Hira – IS Regional Manager: Asia Pacific, Servier
  • Dr. Shay Ganesh – Chief Medical Officer, PPS
  • Ruan Schutte – Innovation Specialist, Liberty
  • Henry Abea – Head of ICT, Kimisitu SACCO, Kenya

These leaders will share their insights and experiences, offering valuable perspectives on the current and future state of IT.

Key topics and agenda highlights

The forum will cover a variety of essential topics, including:

  • The Evolving Role of the IT Leader: Skills and competencies required to lead in an AI–driven world
  • Empowering IT Teams: Overcoming the Skills Gap with Talent Development and Automation
  • AI Ethics and Responsibility: What would you do?
  • The Evolving Role of the IT Leader: Skills and competencies required to lead in an AI–centric landscape
  • ESG Compliance and the IT Leader: Integrating Sustainability into Your IT Strategy

A Valuable Experience

The IT Leaders Forum 2024 promises to be a must–attend event for IT professionals seeking to stay ahead of industry trends and network with peers. Whether you're just beginning or advancing in your digital journey, this forum offers the insights and resources you need to move forward with confidence.

Attendees can look forward to a vibrant day filled with informative presentations, engaging discussions, and valuable networking opportunities.

Sponsorship and Exhibition Opportunities

The IT Leaders Forum offers a unique platform for businesses to showcase their products and services. Sponsorship and exhibition packages provide maximum exposure to a targeted group of IT leaders and decision–makers. Interested parties can reserve a booth to showcase their latest innovations and engage directly with potential clients.

Registration Discount

Register today and save 25% on your pass with the coupon code ITLF@25OFF. This is a great chance for IT professionals to reserve a space at a discounted price, as well as to take advantage of numerous networking and educational opportunities.

To learn more about the conference, registration, and sponsorship options, visit www.itleadersforum.co.za


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1000996429)

Healthcare, Technology Leaders Gather in Johannesburg for Healthcare Innovation Summit Africa 2024

JOHANNESBURG, Aug. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Technology is revolutionizing healthcare in Africa, from enhancing patient care with electronic health records to enabling remote consultations via telemedicine. These advancements are making healthcare more efficient, accessible, and cost–effective.

IT News Africa is excited to announce the 9th Healthcare Innovation Summit Africa (HISA) 2024, set for August 29, 2024, at The Maslow Sandton in Johannesburg. Themed “Transforming African Healthcare: Harnessing Technology for Universal Access and Innovation,” the event will explore how cutting–edge technologies can improve patient outcomes, healthcare delivery, and system sustainability.

Key Topics and Agenda Highlights

The summit will address critical challenges in African healthcare, focusing on technology's role in achieving universal healthcare. Key topics include:

  1. Integrating AI in African Healthcare – Exploring AI's role in diagnostics and patient management.
  2. Digitizing Healthcare Records – The challenges and successes of migrating to cloud solutions.
  3. Telemedicine – Expanding access to healthcare in remote regions.
  4. The Role of Technology in Implementing Universal Healthcare

Key Speakers

HISA 2024 will feature industry experts discussing digital health, telemedicine, and AI integration. Notable speakers include:

  • Dr. Mohamed El Sahili, CEO of Medland Hospital, Zambia
  • Shiraz Dadar, Head of IT at M.P. Shah Hospital, Nairobi
  • Nhlanhla Xaba, ICT Manager at Mediclinic
  • Margot Brews, Head of Health Risk Management at Momentum Health Solutions

Sponsorship and Exhibition Opportunities

HISA 2024 offers IT service providers, HealthTech startups, and medical device companies the chance to showcase their solutions, connect with key stakeholders, and enhance brand visibility through sponsorship and exhibition opportunities.

Registration Discounts

Use the code HISA@25OFF for a 25% discount on registration, giving medical professionals, healthcare IT executives and healthcare decision–makers, the chance to network and learn about the latest trends in African healthcare.

Past Attendees Praise HISA

Participants from previous HISA events have shared their positive experiences, highlighting the event's impact on their professional growth and networking opportunities.

Marketing Director at Meditech South Africa affirmed that #HISA events are enlightening to attend. “I think this event is great; it brings in various stakeholders in the healthcare industry. It's all about innovation, disruptive technology, and digital health. I think it is a great platform for sharing ideas, dialogue, and debates about issues in the healthcare industry.”

The MEC for Health in the Free State Province emphasized the importance of HISA, stating, “Summits like these are important because they help us deliver quality health services using technology and teach us how to use innovative methods to ensure that the services we provide are effective and cost–efficient. It benefits both the government and the community.”

Andrew Raynes, Chief Information Officer from Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation, UK, added, “It’s been a real privilege to be here. I’ve learned so much about South African culture in the health space and what we are all striving to achieve. I now look forward to reflecting on the conference’s outcomes and sharing them with colleagues back home in the UK. It’s been a great opportunity to be part of HISA, and thank you to IT News Africa for having me as one of the keynote speakers.”

Attendees can expect a dynamic day filled with informative sessions, engaging discussions, and valuable networking opportunities. By participating in HISA 2024, stakeholders will play a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare in Africa.

For more information about the conference, registration, and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.healthcareinnovationsummit.co.za.

Hashtag: #HISA2024


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1000987984)

IT News Africa Announces Digital Finance Africa 2024: A Crucial Summit for FinTech Innovation

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, June 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Africa's financial sector gears up for IT News Africa’s highly anticipated Digital Finance Africa 2024 conference, scheduled for July 4th at the prestigious Maslow Sandton. Under the theme “Empowering Africa's Financial Future: FinTech Innovations for Inclusive Growth,” this year's event promises a day of strategic insights and networking opportunities.

Abe Wakama, CEO of IT News Africa, highlighted the significance of this gathering, stating, “Digital Finance Africa 2024 is more than just a conference; it's a pivotal gathering for Africa's financial sector. As we convene on July 4th in Johannesburg, we're not only addressing critical challenges but also exploring the vast opportunities within banking and FinTech across the continent. This event isn't merely beneficial – it's essential for anyone invested in Africa's economic growth. Join us to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and shape the future of finance in Africa.”

Expert Speakers and Thought Leaders:

Digital Finance Africa 2024 boasts an impressive lineup of speakers, including industry stalwarts such as Coen Jonker (CEO and Founder, Tyme Bank), Frank Rizzo (Chief Design Officer, Discovery Bank), and Keneilwe Gwabeni (Group CIO, Assupol). The roster also includes executives from leading financial institutions and innovative startups, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of key topics shaping Africa's financial landscape.

Key Topics and Agenda Highlights:

The conference agenda features thought–provoking sessions covering a wide range of topics, including navigating cybersecurity risks, the role of AI in banking, and the future of cryptocurrencies in Africa. Panel discussions and presentations will delve into pressing issues such as scaling and profitability challenges in African FinTech, capital constraints, and the evolving role of central banks in shaping a digital economy.

Discount Offer for Limited Period:

For a limited period, attendees can avail themselves of a 25% discount on registration fees by using the coupon code DFA@25OFF. This offer presents a valuable opportunity for industry professionals to engage with experts, network with peers, and gain insights into the latest trends and innovations in African FinTech.

Who Should Attend and Sponsor:

Digital Finance Africa 2024 is tailored for IT decision–makers in banking, FinTech entrepreneurs, financial regulators, technology service providers, and industry analysts. The event also offers sponsorship and exhibition opportunities for companies seeking to showcase innovative products and solutions, positioning themselves as leaders in the African FinTech landscape.

Join the Conversation:

Attendees can expect a dynamic day filled with informative sessions, engaging discussions, and valuable networking opportunities. By participating in Digital Finance Africa 2024, stakeholders will play a crucial role in shaping the future of finance in Africa.

For more information about the conference, registration, and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.digitalfinanceafrica.co.za.


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IT News Africa Unites Public Sector Leaders and Cybersecurity Experts to Prepare for Next-Gen Cyber Challenges

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, March 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In the face of escalating cyber threats targeting public sector entities, IT News Africa is thrilled to announce the upcoming Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit on April 3, 2024, at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg. Our central theme, “Public–Private Collaboration: Strengthening Cybersecurity through Strategic Partnerships,” underscores the critical importance of unity and shared strategies to fortify public sector organisations against relentless cyber attacks.

The Importance of Cybersecurity Awareness in the Public Sector

Recent ransomware attacks on prominent entities like the City of Johannesburg, Transnet, and the Department of Justice in South Africa underscore the urgency of our collective response. In the spirit of collaboration, discussions at the summit will focus on fostering partnerships, sharing threat intelligence, and developing joint strategies to bolster the overall cybersecurity posture in the public sector.

Why Attend the Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit?

  • Discover the importance of collaborative defense in the ever–evolving landscape of cyber threats. This summit brings together thought leaders, security experts, and professionals from both public and private sectors to delve into strategies fostering partnerships and joint initiatives.
  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of recent cyber incidents targeting public sector organisations in South Africa, including ransomware attacks on major entities like the City of Johannesburg, Transnet, and the Department of Justice. Learn from these incidents to fortify your organisation's defences.
  • Hear from experts on reassessing and upgrading cybersecurity strategies. Understand the latest technologies, best practices, and proactive measures to mitigate and protect against future cyberattacks.
  • Connect with best–in–class solution providers, security vendors, and senior colleagues from across the region. Share challenges, experiences, and strategies to enhance your organisation's approach to cybersecurity resilience.

To ensure the summit's success, an esteemed advisory board has been assembled, featuring distinguished individuals such as Abdul Kader Baba, CIO, Infrastructure South Africa; Jabu (Hugh) Hlatshwayo, CIO, Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJCD), and Dr. Stanley Mpofu, CIO, University of the Witwatersrand.

Become a Sponsor

The Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit presents a unique opportunity for cybersecurity vendors and solution providers to connect with a targeted audience of senior IT decision–makers from government departments and State Owned Enterprises. Showcase your cybersecurity expertise, build brand awareness, and generate leads by becoming a sponsor.

Register Now

Registration for the Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit is now open. Secure your spot at this essential event and join us in exploring the critical role of public–private collaboration in building cyber resilience.

For more information on the Public Sector Cybersecurity Summit, please visit the event website at www.publicsecurity.co.za.


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1000930156)

IT News Africa Convenes Retailers and Tech Experts to Prepare for the Future of African Retail

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, Jan. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IT News Africa, a leading technology news platform, proudly announces the highly anticipated 6th Digital Retail Africa 2024. This annual event promises to converge retail industry luminaries, technology providers, and leaders to explore the vast potential of digital retail in the African market.

As the retail landscape undergoes a significant transformation fuelled by the internet, evolving customer expectations, and emerging technologies, retailers face the imperative to adapt and innovate. The 6th Digital Retail Africa 2024 is the premier event providing a platform for retail and technology professionals to not only survive, but thrive in this new era of digital retail.

For senior IT executives within major retail enterprises or technology service providers catering to retailers, mark your calendars for Digital Retail Africa 2024 – the paramount event for retail and technology innovation on the African continent.

Scheduled for January 31, 2024, at the esteemed Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg, Digital Retail Africa 2024 promises to convene hundreds of local and international retail industry leaders, service providers, and experts. This premier conference aims to facilitate the exchange of insights, best practices, and case studies, focusing on leveraging technology to enhance retail performance and elevate the customer experience.

Digital Retail Africa 2024 Highlights:

Digital Retail Transformation:
The event, slated for January 31, 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa, will delve into various facets of the digital retail space. Topics covered include artificial intelligence, analytics, personalization, customer experience, payments, and digital transformation in retail.

According to Abe Wakama, the CEO of IT News Africa, “Digital Retail Africa 2024 is a pivotal event that will empower retail businesses in Africa to stay at the forefront of the technological curve. We extend a warm invitation to retail professionals and technology experts to join us and explore the nuances of digital transformation in the retail sector.”

The conference will center on aiding businesses in maximizing customer experience and innovation by harnessing data–driven insights, predictive analytics, and machine learning. It will also address how retailers can utilize data to boost sales and gain a deeper understanding of their customers.

Abe Wakama expressed, “This is a crucial step towards realizing digital retail in Africa. We are excited to bring together industry–leading experts to share their insights and experiences. Our objective is to assist retailers in creating an environment conducive to innovation.”

Special Offer:
In celebration of this transformative event, participants can avail themselves of a 25% discount on their registration fee by using the coupon code: DRA@25OFF.

Event Details:
Digital Retail Africa 2024 is an indispensable event set to take place in Johannesburg, South Africa, on January 31, 2024. It aims to equip retail businesses with the tools to stay ahead of the technological curve while optimizing customer experience and innovation through data–driven insights, predictive analytics, and machine learning.

This event provides a unique opportunity for retailers to stay abreast of the latest digital retail trends and strategies, gaining inspiration to craft innovative solutions for their businesses.

For more information and to register for the event, please visit: https://itnewsafrica.com/event/event/digital–retail–africa/

About IT News Africa:
IT News Africa is a prominent technology news platform that delivers up–to–the–minute information on the latest trends, innovations, and developments in the tech industry. With a commitment to providing insightful and reliable content, IT News Africa serves as a valuable resource for technology enthusiasts, professionals, and businesses across the African continent.


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