Genetec forecasts that flexibility, responsible AI, and unified connected systems will define the physical security industry in 2026, as organizations modernize infrastructure and strengthen operational performance. According to Genetec’s latest outlook, enterprises will increasingly adopt hybrid and cloud-flexible security deployments, favoring open-architecture platforms that avoid vendor lock-in and extend the life of existing systems. Intelligent Automation will move beyond hype to deliver measurable outcomes, improving monitoring accuracy, accelerating investigations, and enhancing situational awareness through transparent and secure AI. The report also highlights rapid growth in Access Control as a Service (ACaaS), mobile credentials, biometrics, and the convergence of video surveillance, access control, IoT, and building systems, enabling smarter, more efficient, and resilient physical security operations worldwide.
Author: Africa Business
Digital Economy Expected to Grow 9.5% within the global economy, new DCO Trends 2026 report reveals
The global digital economy is projected to grow by 9.5% in 2026, reaching an estimated USD 28 trillion and accounting for 22% of global GDP, according to the Digital Economy Trends (DET) 2026 report by the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO). Launched in Riyadh, the report analyzes insights from over 400 policymakers, economists, and technology leaders across 26 countries, identifying 18 key digital economy trends shaping global innovation. The study highlights end-to-end cybersecurity, ambient intelligence, and converging frontier technologies—including AI, robotics, and spatial computing—as the most impactful forces driving inclusive growth, digital transformation, and economic value creation. DET 2026 also underscores trillions of dollars in potential from AI-driven workforce transformation, immersive technologies, digital trade, and resilient digital infrastructure, offering governments and businesses a data-driven roadmap for navigating the future digital economy.
USScience.com: Building America’s Premier Science Platform in 2026
USScience.com is a premium national domain set to become the leading hub for U.S. science, research, innovation, and STEM education. It targets high-value searches like “US science news,” “research innovations,” “STEM jobs,” and “e-learning.” The platform integrates a science news portal, talent marketplace, e-learning courses, and institutional collaboration SaaS, driving audience growth and diversified revenue. With a 12-month roadmap, USScience.com aims for 300,000 monthly visitors, 6,000+ paid subscribers, and $2M+ revenue in Year-1. Available for acquisition.
Why 2026 Will Be the Year of the Super App in Emerging Markets
2026 is set to be the breakthrough year for super-apps in emerging markets, with Africa leading the digital platform revolution. High mobile adoption, fragmented services, and untapped MSME markets create the perfect conditions for integrated platforms that combine payments, commerce, logistics, and discovery. Flood, led by André de Wet, is building Africa-focused super-app solutions to connect informal businesses, drive financial inclusion, and enable scalable digital commerce.
JEKTA Unveils 1:9 Scale Model of Zero-Emission PHA-ZE 100 Amphibious Aircraft During Ongoing Flight Tests in Italy
JEKTA has unveiled a new 1:9 scale model of its zero-emission PHA-ZE 100 amphibious aircraft as flight and water testing advances in Italy. The model provides critical performance data for the hydrogen-powered, all-electric flying boat scheduled for global introduction in 2030.
Southern African and Italian Business Leaders Sign Bold Manifesto to Accelerate Africa’s Next Phase of Growth
Southern African and Italian business leaders have signed a landmark CEO Manifesto aimed at accelerating Africa’s next phase of economic growth. Announced at the 12th TEHA CEO Dialogue in Johannesburg alongside the G20 summit, the agreement brings together over 150 CEOs and policymakers from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and Italy. The Manifesto outlines ten strategic priorities focused on energy investment, infrastructure development, SME financing, digital transformation, talent mobility, regulatory stability, and women’s economic empowerment. Backed by the African Development Bank Group and The European House – Ambrosetti, the initiative positions the private sector as a driving force behind sustainable, inclusive growth across the continent. This strengthened Italy–Africa partnership aims to unlock Africa’s economic potential through coordinated investment, innovation, and long-term collaboration.
CityMenderSATM: The Young South African Building Africa’s First Public Infrastructure Geo Intelligence Platform
CityMenderSA™ is Africa’s first public infrastructure geo-intelligence platform, created by young South African innovator Keyuren Maharaj. Combining augmented reality, satellite verification, spatial analytics, community reporting, and smart micro-grid geocoding, CityMenderSA gives real-time visibility into roads, water systems, sanitation, electricity, environmental hazards, and municipal services. Built to help African cities “see” their infrastructure, it empowers communities and governments with accurate data, transparency, and actionable insights for smarter urban development.
International Business Immersion Program South Africa: French Entrepreneurs Embark On A Multisectoral Immersion Program
The International Business Immersion Program South Africa brings a delegation of innovative French SMEs and mid-sized companies to Johannesburg and Cape Town from 1–5 December 2025. Organized by Bpifrance with Business France and FSACCI, the program strengthens France–South Africa economic ties through high-level networking, B2B meetings, and sector-specific visits. Participating companies represent digital transformation, medical software, sustainable IT, mobility, waste management, industrial maintenance, hygiene technologies, and geosciences. The mission aims to accelerate French business expansion in South Africa and open new opportunities in one of Africa’s most dynamic markets.
A New Standard in Luxury Living: The Caspian by Wavemark Properties Takes the Spotlight
Read the article about how Wavemark Properties is redefining coastal luxury with The Caspian, recently awarded Best Luxury Residential Development by Luxury Lifestyle Awards. Located in Nyali, Kenya, this project blends modern design, coastal charm, and sustainable innovation. With over 70% construction complete, it offers one to four-bedroom units, premium Turkish finishes, and amenities like an infinity pool, sky-view gym, and rooftop terrace. Eco-friendly features such as water purification systems and lush landscaping enhance long-term value. The Caspian stands as a new benchmark in smart, durable, and lifestyle-focused living.
The evolving role of AI in business process outsourcing
The integration of AI into Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) has evolved from early excitement about its transformative potential to a more pragmatic approach focused on specific, high-impact use cases. While AI was initially viewed as a potential job disruptor, its role has proven to be an enabler rather than a replacement for human agents. AI’s greatest value in BPO is in automating repetitive, low-value tasks, like after-call summaries, which enhances operational efficiency and improves customer experience. However, the rapid adoption of AI has also revealed challenges, such as data privacy concerns, limitations in large language models (LLMs), and the importance of human oversight. Going forward, successful AI implementation in BPO will require a balance between innovation and caution, with a focus on enhancing human capabilities while addressing ethical and regulatory considerations in data management.