Is your CRM growing your business or just helping you survive the chaos?

Many businesses treat CRM systems as digital filing cabinets rather than growth enablers. This article, featuring insights from Eldon Bothma and Hayley Blane of Braintree, explores why CRM should be more than an operational tool—it should drive strategic value, measurable results, and long-term business growth. Learn how South African companies can close the CRM maturity gap by shifting from compliance-focused systems to smart, scalable customer engagement platforms powered by AI, automation, and data insights.

Microplastics and the South African health crisis no one’s talking about

South Africa is facing an escalating health and environmental crisis driven by microplastic pollution, with over 80% of freshwater sources contaminated. As plastic waste continues to outpace recycling infrastructure, microplastics are entering the food chain and human body, posing serious long-term health risks. Fortis X offers a solution with Africa’s first 100% plant-based, biodegradable packaging—helping reduce exposure to toxic plastic particles and protect ecosystems and public health.

Global Trade Credit Insurance Claims Drop in 2024, but Africa Remains Key Risk Zone, Survey Finds

Global trade credit insurance claims dropped in both volume and value in 2024, with total claims falling by nearly 25% to just over $400 million, according to a survey by the Lloyd’s Market Association and partners. Despite the decline, Africa remained the leading source of claims, accounting for 71% of cases. Most claims were paid promptly, highlighting the reliability of trade credit insurance, particularly in high-risk regions and infrastructure sectors.

Durban’s uMhlanga Booms with R1.4 Billion Oceans North Tower Launch and R1.3 Billion Leisure Development Plan

Durban’s uMhlanga continues its rise as a top real estate investment hub with the launch of the R1.4 billion Oceans North Tower—featuring 258 luxury ocean-facing apartments—and a planned R1.3 billion leisure development in the South Tower. The mixed-use precinct, which includes Oceans Mall and Radisson Blu Hotel, has already created over 25,000 jobs and champions inclusive, Black-owned economic growth in KwaZulu-Natal.

Africa’s flavours to drive its hospitality boom

Africa’s food and beverage sector is becoming a cornerstone of the continent’s luxury hospitality boom. As global hotel brands deepen their footprint across Africa, partnerships with top chefs and a focus on indigenous cuisine are redefining African fine dining. With Cape Town named the world’s top food city and investment rising in markets like Nigeria, Mauritius, and Egypt, African flavours are poised to become a key global differentiator in luxury travel and tourism.

Global experts launch elite fundraising course to reinvent African fundraising

A groundbreaking executive course titled Fundraising for African Nonprofits will launch in Nairobi from August 26–28, 2025. Designed to equip African civil society leaders with strategic, sustainable fundraising skills, the course is led by Impact Africa Consulting in partnership with Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and other top institutions. Participants will gain real-world tools, mentorship, and a professional development certificate to help them navigate a shifting global funding landscape.

Community Wifi, MVNO and the rise of hybrid communications providers

As South Africa progresses toward universal broadband access through SA Connect, hybrid carriers are stepping in to fill the digital gap. Combining fibre, community WiFi, and MVNO services, these agile providers deliver affordable connectivity to underserved communities. This article explores the rise of hybrid models, their business case, and the critical role of integrated billing solutions in enabling sustainable expansion.

Futures_Past project launches: Using immersive technologies to reimagine heritage in Southern Africa

The Futures_Past project, initiated by the French Institute of South Africa in partnership with Electric South, empowers archival and cultural institutions in Southern Africa to reimagine heritage using immersive technologies. Through VR, AR, and interactive storytelling, six selected institutions will collaborate with digital artists to bring archival collections to life and deepen public engagement with memory and history.