IMBALI CUSTOMISED SOLUTIONS (Pty) Ltd.

And the winner is? The African Continent! Trust me, in two years there will be a stampede from Europe and the USA like the gold rush in California! I am sure the coming president of America has seen this and will plant the Stars and Stripes strategically there soon. Why? After decades of negligence, the world woke up one morning and said: why did we not see this coming? Why did we ignore the upcoming biggest consumer market in the world? Why did we miss the boat? Maybe it is not too late, but the problem is the wake up calls in general did not come with a coherent strategic plan for how to join. Every country has their own ideas and many corporate entities are looking for answers in their old manuals for how to explore new markets. However, what I have learned through my extensive travel and stay throughout the Continent is first and foremost the following: In order to get success in Africa it is not enough to provide financial injection It is much more important to help the domestic businesses by transfering knowledge and technology, and thereby give them a sustainable ownership of their own destiny. Exactly the same formular created the commercial succes of the US, when Europe after the Second World War, transferred hundreds of of years of scientific research to America and when China after joining WTO in 2001 got the latest technology (voluntarily or not) from the US. NOW, it is Africa’s turn to be in the receiving end of the know how and acces to technology and the digital transformation that created the modern world. More symbolic, the circle of power will go back to the place where the human race were born. Here is my reasoning: 1) the global consumer markets are saturated with products and the suppliers need a new fresh off-taker sizable enough to maintain their growth! 2) the Continent is at this point ready to take ownership of her own resources securing enough income to become independent of foreign financing. The time might be over soon, where the natural resources are extracted out of the continent as were they pieces of soil. 3) the Continent is now ready and motivated for industrialization and due to the number of people (in particular young) available for the workforce the continent is probably the only adequate alternative to Asias dominance as the worlds assembling hub. And here comes the first luck Africa has experienced since the start of civilization. Asia is, due to the increase in labor cost, forced to seek new areas for the production of consumer electronics and guess, who is capable and willing to take over? Africa! My prediction is that in five years the IPhone and other devices will be produced at the continent not only for consumption there but for export to rest of the world. Europe had its time. The US had its time and recently Asia had its time. Trust me! Now the next 20 to 30 years at least belong to Africa! Learn from history and act accordingly!

This is what innovation looks like🔭 #MSIgnite

“Embracing the Future of Content Creation in South Africa” By Thabang Mokoka At the 18th Annual ICT Summit, as a panel member, the discussion on the challenges of generating fresh ideas and ensuring accessible content sparked my thoughts on how technology can address these issues. As we navigate the ever-changing media landscape, the challenges of generating fresh and engaging content are undeniable. However, I firmly believe that these challenges present a unique opportunity for stimulating SMME development and innovative content consumption. The proposed SABC Bill, aimed at modernising our public broadcaster, is a step in the right direction. While concerns around editorial independence are valid, I believe that a balanced approach can be achieved. This reform can pave the way for increased collaboration between the public and private sectors, fostering a vibrant and diverse media ecosystem. The 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR) has brought about unprecedented technological advancements, and South Africa must capitalize on these opportunities. Therefore, investing in digital infrastructure and skills development, we can empower SMMEs to compete globally. Initiatives such as funding programs, training, and mentorship will be crucial in unlocking the potential of our small businesses. The SITA Act's focus on digital transformation and cybersecurity will ensure that our digital development is underpinned by a secure and robust infrastructure. Accessing platforms like Stalink will enable innovative content distribution models, reaching diverse audiences and creating new revenue streams. This shift presents opportunities for innovative content creation by leveraging AI-powered tools, VR, and AR to produce engaging, high-quality content. Intentionally catering to niche audiences and promoting multicultural storytelling. It is critical to advance SMME growth to produce and distribute content thus creating jobs. This will therefore stimulate economic growth through increased accessibility of digital platforms, bridging the gap between urban and rural communities. To fully harness these opportunities, we must in digital skills training and infrastructure development through fostering collaboration between public and private sectors. This will allow for the encouragement of innovative content creation and distribution models. First, we must acknowledge there is a big elephant in the room name regulatory frameworks. Relaxed approach surprisingly opens doors for innovative content creation and consumption. In conclusion, while challenges abound, I firmly believe that the future of content creation in South Africa is bright. Embracing technological advancements, supporting SMME development, and promoting innovative content consumption, we can create a thriving media landscape that showcases our diverse voices and talents. Disclaimer: Thabang Mokoka writes in his personal capacity.