Author: Africa Business

Caribou Digital Launches New Book, The Platform Livelihoods Project: Research Exploring the Workplaces of the Digital Age in Africa & Indonesia

This pioneering research, conducted in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and with the support of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation explores the pervasive digital workplace landscape in Africa and Indonesia. The research reveals the scale of dependency millions of Africans have on digital marketplaces for their livelihoods, where 27% of Kenyan farmers claim to use Meta (Facebook) to sell information and buy produce. In examining marginalised groups, people with disabilities shared in-depth accounts of challenges faced with their user experience, such as a lack of screen-reading technology for the visually impaired, inhibiting full participation. Caribou Digital calls for better governance and inclusivity for Africa’s digital marketplace to ensure it unlocks its projected reach of $72 billion by 2026.

Club Med reaches nearly 2 billion Euros in business volume for the first time in its history

After returning to its pre-pandemic level as early as in 2022, Club Med, pioneers of global all-inclusive holidays, reached nearly 2 billion Euros in business volume for the first time in its history. Club Med’s record business performance in 2023 is the result of the transformation of its business model towards an upscale, glocal and happy digital offering, initiated in 2004. In 2023, 97% of the Resort portfolio consisted of Premium and Exclusive Collection Resorts and will achieve 100% by April 2024.

Africa Data Centre Market is Projected to Reach $7bn by 2028

Africa’s data centre market is growing at an unprecedented rate, driven by increasing internet penetration, rapid adoption of cloud computing, and soaring demand for digital services. As the continent embraces the digital revolution, the data centre market is projected to reach over $7 billion by 2028, an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2028) of 7%. This growth is not only transforming Africa’s digital landscape but also presenting significant opportunities for investors, technology companies, and local businesses.

Bias-free Futures: Strategies for Ethical AI Implementation

As organisations step up efforts to leverage the capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI), it is essential for both AI developers and regulators to consistently contemplate, integrate, and advocate for ethical considerations throughout the entire process. That’s according to Hope Lukoto, Chief Human Resource Officer at BCX, who points out that while AI promises a plethora of business benefits, responsible use of the technology is key to unlocking its full potential.

The rise of Gen Z means a rethink of permanent employment is on the horizon

We are witnessing a clash between businesses pushing for in-office work and Gen Z workers who prioritise flexibility, environmental consciousness, and inclusivity. Even remote-working advocate, Zoom, has demanded that those within 80km of the office need to work in-person twice a week. As Gen Z becomes the dominant demographic in the future workforce, project-based independent contracting and remote collaboration are gaining popularity as preferred modes of work. Gary Silbermann, Co-Founder & Innovation Director at One Degree shares that there doesn’t have to be an ongoing battle between C-suites and younger workers.