Happy Pay raises $1.8 million pre-seed round and secures inaugural debt facility as it accelerates its mission of bringing the cost of consumer credit to zero for South Africans.
Author: Africa Business
The Challenges and Prospects of Passport-Free Travel in Africa Using Biometrics
An interview with Willys Mac’Olale, Director of Fragomen Kenya, on the innovative opportunities and barriers in using biometrics, particularly facial recognition, for passport-free travel.
Why Africa’s Approach to Financial Risk Management Needs to Change
Reggie Mlangeni, Head of Sales and Structuring at Absa Corporate and Investment Banking, discusses the unique challenges Africa faces in financial risk management, highlighting how traditional strategies often fall short in the continent’s volatile markets. The article calls for a re-evaluation of risk models, emphasizing the importance of tailored strategies, diversification, and the use of advanced technologies like AI and Machine Learning.
Fintechs need to overcome regulatory barriers that limit access to financial services for underserved communities
Nikki Kettles, Licences and Payments Regulation Executive at Mukuru, discusses how regulatory barriers often limit fintech innovation and hinder access to financial services for these communities. She highlights the importance of collaboration between fintechs and regulators in overcoming barriers to innovation and expanding access to financial services for underserved communities. Mukuru’s success in holding 49 licenses across 15 countries underscores its deep commitment to working closely with regulators while expanding financial access.
African companies must recognise strategic M&A as the most viable exit strategy, says investment bank CEO
Victor Basta, CEO of investment bank DAI Magister, discusses the ways in which African CEOs can maximise valuations by ensuring they are bought (not sold). This includes leveraging increased interest from overseas acquirers, ensuring buyers possess the financial capacity to meet expected asking prices and stress-testing business plans to stand up to buyer due diligence.
IDEX Biometrics and Vasmobile launch biometric school ID program in Africa
Vasmobile Fintelco is launching SkoolID, the African School ID and Smart Payment Card, based on the biometric card platform from IDEX Biometrics.
Virgin Atlantic adds three new destinations for summer 2025
Virgin Atlantic has announced new flying from London Heathrow, adding two new destinations of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Accra, Ghana to its network for summer 2025.
Construction of Club Med South Africa Progresses To 2026 Opening
Construction of Club Med’s first Resort in South Africa is in full swing, and the excitement is building as it moves steadily toward its scheduled opening in July 2026. Officially named Club Med South Africa, this unique destination promises to deliver the perfect mix of beachside relaxation and safari experiences.
Embracing the entrepreneurial mindset: Lessons from the trenches
South Africa has seen a surge in entrepreneurial ambition, with more than half of the country’s youth showing interest in starting their own businesses despite the challenges in accessing funding and resources. Daniel Levy, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Flow, understands these hurdles first-hand.
In his latest piece, “Embracing the Entrepreneurial Mindset: Lessons from the Trenches,” he shares five lessons from his journey as an entrepreneur, offering insights on how to cultivate the mindset needed to navigate unpredictable markets and build lasting success.