Call for Refugee-Led Clean Energy Enterprises in Uganda, Kenya, and Ethiopia to Apply for Inclusive Investment Grants

Ashden is offering grants of up to £10,000 for refugee-led clean energy projects in Uganda, Kenya, and Ethiopia. These grants aim to support innovative clean energy solutions such as solar power and clean cooking technologies in displacement settings, empowering refugee entrepreneurs and organizations with financial and technical assistance. The program is part of the Transforming Humanitarian Energy Access initiative, in partnership with the Howden Foundation and other global organizations.

Consulting firm expands access to GRI Certification with offers for students and professionals

Impact Africa Consulting has announced a significant reduction in fees for the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Certification Program, aiming to make sustainability reporting expertise more accessible to students and professionals across Africa. The program, now offered at discounted rates of €300 for students and €400 for professionals, is fully online, ensuring broad accessibility. This initiative underscores Impact Africa’s commitment to enhancing sustainability knowledge and practices throughout the continent.

Mindware Expands Its Presence in East Africa with New Office in Kenya

Mindware has opened a new office in Nairobi, Kenya, marking its strategic expansion into East Africa. The new office will serve as the East African headquarters, supporting the growing demand for IT solutions and fostering deeper channel partnerships. With a focus on digital transformation, Mindware aims to accelerate the region’s technological growth by providing localized support and leveraging its partnerships with global technology vendors.

Unlocking affordable connectivity with mobile virtual network operators

The article explores how Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) are revolutionizing mobile services by offering affordable and personalized connectivity options to consumers. By leveraging existing infrastructure, MVNOs enable telcos, financial institutions, and retailers to introduce customized offerings that attract customers through lower data and airtime prices, as well as loyalty rewards. Despite challenges in South Africa’s market, MVNOs like Capitec Connect and Standard Bank Mobile have found success by tapping into existing customer bases. The piece also discusses the vital role of cost-effective Operational Support and Business Support Systems (OSS/BSS) in scaling MVNOs, particularly in emerging markets where traditional telco solutions are often prohibitively expensive. The future of MVNOs lies in their ability to innovate, scale, and serve the underserved communities with better connectivity solutions.

Epiq launches new AI tool to help legal teams with HSR pre-merger filings

In response to the new requirements under the Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) Act, Epiq has launched an AI-driven tool to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of pre-merger filings. The HSR Discovery Services tool integrates advanced AI technology, including a chat Q&A interface, automated document tagging, and multi-language document analysis, offering legal teams a faster, more cost-effective way to manage the increased complexity of filing requirements. With the potential to process up to 500,000 documents per hour, the tool delivers enhanced defensibility and predictable pricing, addressing the increased demands for compliance. This innovation supports legal teams in navigating regulatory shifts and helps businesses maintain efficiency during M&A processes.

Why Workplace Culture Matters Now More Than Ever

Workplace culture has become a key driver of success in today’s business landscape, influencing employee satisfaction, retention, and overall productivity. Companies that prioritize a positive and inclusive culture see tangible benefits, such as improved creativity, collaboration, and a stronger bottom line. Employees who feel valued and engaged are more motivated, leading to better performance and a stronger connection to the company’s mission. A thriving workplace culture also helps attract top talent, enhances customer relationships, and fosters a sense of belonging among staff. As highlighted by industry experts, maintaining a vibrant internal culture is essential for long-term success and brand integrity.

Finding the money to change South Africa’s trajectory

South Africa’s national budget for 2025 is under heavy scrutiny due to concerns about rising debt, government overspending, and the challenges of maintaining fiscal stability. The article explores the country’s fiscal outlook, with attention on the growing debt-to-GDP ratio, potential new taxes, and funding issues surrounding Transnet and Eskom. The proposed basic income grant (BIG) and the economic risks associated with the global political landscape also add to the fiscal pressure. The property sector faces challenges from government inefficiencies, infrastructure issues, and economic instability. The budget’s outcome will be critical for sustaining growth and investor confidence in South Africa.

Global SoftwareOne Study: IT Cost Optimisation Drives Innovation, Boosts ROI, Profitability, and Accelerates Time to Market for Companies

SoftwareOne’s latest research highlights the crucial role of IT cost optimisation in driving innovation and business success. Companies that successfully optimise their IT costs are twice as likely to report improved ROI, profitability, and quicker time to market. This study focuses on mid-market businesses, particularly those with revenues between $500 million and $5 billion, and explores best practices in IT cost management, cloud infrastructure, digital initiatives, and AI adoption. By aligning IT strategies with innovation priorities, businesses can free up resources for strategic investments, ensuring long-term growth and competitiveness.