SD-WAN, as a next-generation technology and service, can help banks connect their branches and promote smart branch upgrades by constructing a powerful network
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, September 30, 2022/APO Group/ —
“I see it as Lego blocks where the bottom layer is a strong technology foundation that gives us a platform to offer cutting-edge digital solutions to our customers. A strong, resilient network connects all the elements of the platform reliably.” – Moses Okundi, CIO of Absa Kenya
Who is Absa Bank Kenya?
Absa Bank Kenya is listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange and is one of Kenya’s leading financial institutions. Established in 1916, the bank has been a major player in Kenya’s financial landscape, engaged in personal and corporate banking, enterprise, credit cards and bancassurance.
In line with the bank’s purpose of bringing possibilities to life, the bank offers end-to-end financial solutions to retail, enterprise and corporate customers, and its regional and global footprint enables it to offer cutting-edge financial solutions to its clients. The bank is a leader in the credit card space. It has also been associated with a number of market firsts, such as the launch of the first ATM, Sharia-compliant banking and unsecured lending. Absa Bank Kenya is part of Absa Group, one of the largest financial services institutions on the continent with a presence in 12 African markets and a global scale with offices in London and New York. In Kenya, the Absa is present in 38 counties. It has 83 branches, 212 ATMs and a robust Internet and mobile banking platform.
Facing the ever-changing customer needs over the past few years, Absa Bank regards “digital enablement” as one of the company’s key strategies. While accelerating enterprise innovation, Absa works closely with partners to accelerate digital transformation, provide convenient and high-quality innovative services for employees and customers, and further enable the creation of a digital Africa.
Bank Outlets Rethink Their Positioning as Epidemics and Digital Technologies Hit the Financial Industry
In recent years, the epidemic and digital technologies have continuously impacted traditional commercial banks. The diversified requirements of bank users and physical isolation brought by COVID-19 epidemic have accelerated the digital transformation of commercial banks. As a result, “mobile first” has become a top topic in the industry. More and more banks regard “mobile money” as the essential way to digital transformation. As consumers embrace mobile banking, digital channels absorb many traditional banking transactions. As a result, customers ’footprint at bank outlets start to decline, leading to the closure of many outlets. However, bank outlets remain an important channel for serving customers. According to a McKinsey study on June 2020: “The focus of branch offices will evolve to help customers with their complex needs.” In another Deloitte study on the outlook for banking and capital markets for 2021, “nearly half of bank respondents said their institutions are considering real-time interactions with bank staff through intelligent ATMs…”
There is no doubt that bank outlets are still indispensable in banks’ digital transformation journey. However, banks are supposed to re-examine the position of offline outlets. In the future, branch offices will act as face-to-face (F2F) channels and customer experience centers where customers handle complex transactions, solve problems and receive financial advisory services. Smart bank branch networks will be the key for banks to achieve this goal and support commercial banks’ digital strategies.
The Traditional Branches Connection Solution Hinders the Digital Upgrade of Banks. Who is the “Mr. Right” for this Situation?
However, traditional bank branch network architectures are no longer sufficient to support the upgrade of digital branches or even hinder it.
First, the cost of traditional WAN networking solutions for branch connection is too high. With the promotion of digitalization, the demand for real-time data transmission of financial transactions, services, and files in bank branches, as well as the demand for digital office and high-quality video/voice within branches, has exploded. However, most banks traditionally rely on Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) to implement network connections between headquarters and branch sites, as well as between branch sites. However, the cost of construction of MPLS links is too high. Most banks hesitate in the face of such high cost. This becomes an obstacle to the establishment of intelligent branches of banks.
Traditional solutions also fall short of meeting the requirements for banking agility and flexibility. Previously, the construction, configuration, and go-live of a network at a new bank branch could take weeks or even months. Furthermore, many services that should have been available to customers if there was a strong network cannot be provided in some areas due to a lack of professional staff. As a result, traditional solutions become an impediment to the agility requirements of banking in the digital age.
Absa Bank Kenya’s intelligent cloud-based branch network will serve as a critical foundation for the financial giant’s digital transformation
Furthermore, low network O&M efficiency becomes a pain point for banks’ digital transformation. Banks are typical of these situations: the network structure is complex and invisible, branch locations are dispersed, and network diagnosis cannot be performed remotely. As a result, when network problems arise, IT Technicians must handle them. It could take several hours or even days, which would be disastrous for the banks’ operations and result in significant losses. As we can see, when the continuity of banking services is threatened by a network problem, traditional solutions fail.
Since the traditional branch connection solution is obsolete in the digital era, what is the best solution for digital branch construction? SD-WAN (software defined wide area network) technology is the answer. SD-WAN, as a next-generation technology and service, can help banks connect their branches and promote smart branch upgrades by constructing a powerful network based on cost-effectiveness, agility, flexibility, scalability, security, and compliance.
Absa Bank Kenya Partners with Huawei on SD-WAN Solution to Build a New Digital Foundation for Branch Networks
As business continues to expand, Absa Bank Kenya is actively seeking the most appropriate network infrastructure. “We strive to offer our customers a seamless digital experience. We want to enable them to bank and transact without any hitch and in a seamless manner at the convenience of whatever they could be,” said Moses Okundi, CIO of Absa Bank Kenya. To realize that, the bank needed to build a new infrastructure to improve the efficiency of various banking services, reduce O&M costs, and enhance user experience at branches.
To meet the digital transformation requirements, Huawei and Absa Bank Kenya’s technical team conducted in-depth discussions and surveys. Based on the bank’s actual requirements and digital strategy, as well as Huawei’s strong technical reserves and construction experience in enterprise network and financial digital transformation, Huawei provided Absa Bank Kenya with a customized NCE-Campus-based SD-WAN solution. In addition to common SD-WAN capabilities, this solution comes with some other unique advantages including:
High-performance and congestion-free forwarding:
3x high-performance in the industry, meeting SD-WAN development requirements in the next five years;
Intelligent application routing ensures user experience for key applications:
Application-level intelligent traffic steering + 5G plus Fiber on-demand scheduling + A-FEC enable 20% video packet loss without frame freezing and artifacts.
3) Full-process automation:
Supporting multiple ZTP modes including emails, USB flash drive, etc. Network deployment at branches can be performed within minutes.
Branch, device, application and link status are all visualized.
Capable of centralized management and simplified O&M.
Finally, Absa Bank Kenya also selected Huawei as its digital transformation partner to build a cloud-based network between its headquarters and branches. This is prove that Absa Bank Kenya highly recognizes Huawei’s SD-WAN solution to meet its service expansion and digital innovation requirements during its digital upgrade.
Efficient, Reliable, Intelligent O&M, Accelerating Digital Transformation of Absa Bank Kenya.
What does an SD-WAN-based branch cloud network bring to Absa Kenya?
“We got to a point where we can manage traffic and distribute traffic evenly across various technology options or various connectivity options from various connectivity providers. The value of this is that it gives us robust resilience in managing that connectivity,” adds Okundi. Indeed, in the future, the branch network of Absa Bank Kenya will have intelligent traffic steering capability. It means the network can dynamically select MPLS links or internet links based on application quality and MPLS link quality, to ensure that key services use links with good quality. In addition, based on Huawei’s exclusive algorithm support, even if the quality of internet link is not so good, communication quality can still be ensured, which means that MPLS has a cost-effective alternative.
In addition, Huawei provides the iMaster NCE-Campus O&M platform for Absa Kenya, which can display the key O&M quality of devices, applications, and traffic. This platform can visualize application traffic of all branches, and therefore allows the IT team to monitor the dynamic data and adjust the bandwidth of each branch in a timely manner. This brings efficient and intelligent operations, as Okundi explains, ” For my tech team, we now have a very good level of visibility regarding the usage of the connectivity partners we have engaged. We are able to see where the usage is and how the traffic is distributed. And in the worst-case scenario where manual intervention is required, our team can pinpoint the challenges, making their intervention very accurate and efficient.”
These are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the benefits provided by SD-WAN. Absa Bank Kenya’s intelligent cloud-based branch network will serve as a critical foundation for the financial giant’s digital transformation. As Okundi expounds: “I see it as a Lego blocks where the bottom layer is a strong technology foundation that gives us a platform to really offer cutting-edge digital solutions to our customers. And right at the bottom layer is a strong connectivity.” In the future, this powerful branch network will further promote the intelligent upgrade of Absa Bank and eventually help them evolve into intelligent customer experience centers. This digital foundation will continue to support the business expansion and innovation of Absa Bank Kenya to provide the most advanced and the best financial services to Kenya’s customers and enterprises.
The 787-9 and subsequent deliveries of the fuel-efficient widebody jet will advance the airline’s fleet modernization plans and long-haul capabilities, bringing more travelers and trade to Angol
LUANDA, Angola, January 31, 2025/APO Group/ —
African airline receives first of four 787 Dreamliner airplanes on order
787 Dreamliner to expand TAAG Angola Airlines’ network in Europe and open new opportunities in Asia and North America
Boeing [NYSE: BA] (www.Boeing.com) delivered the first of four 787 Dreamliner airplanes to TAAG Angola Airlines, debuting the airline’s new livery. The 787-9 and subsequent deliveries of the fuel-efficient widebody jet will advance the airline’s fleet modernization plans and long-haul capabilities, bringing more travelers and trade to Angola with the industry’s most advanced commercial airplane.
The airline’s first 787 Dreamliner, which is on lease from AerCap, arrived in Luanda just ahead of Angola’s Liberation Day on February 4, marking nearly 50 years since the delivery of TAAG Angola’s first airplane, a Boeing 737-200.
“The delivery of the 787-9 is a pivotal step in our strategy to modernize TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet,” said Nelson Pedro Rodrigues de Oliveira, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines. “This airplane brings the efficiency and versatility we need to meet growing market demands, replace our aging widebody fleet, and deliver a world-class experience to our passengers.”
This airplane brings the efficiency and versatility we need to meet growing market demands, replace our aging widebody fleet, and deliver a world-class experience to our passengers
TAAG Angola Airlines currently operates five 777-300ER (Extended Range) airplanes, three 777-200ERs, and seven Next-Generation 737s, connecting Angola to 12 destinations across Africa, Europe, South America and China. The introduction of the 787 Dreamliner will enable the carrier to expand its long-haul network, with plans to launch new routes to Europe and explore opportunities in Asia and North America.
“The 787 Dreamliner will complement TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet of Boeing 737 and 777 jets, as we continue to support the airline in its mission to connect people and places across the globe,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, vice president of Boeing Commercial Sales for Africa. “Our 50-year relationship with TAAG Angola Airlines has been built on trust and shared goals, and we look forward to many more years of successful collaboration and innovation together.”
The 787 Dreamliner, which TAAG Angola Airlines ordered in 2023 (https://apo-opa.co/4hEsiLC), is a core part of the operator’s modernization efforts. Recognized for its advanced technologies, fuel efficiency, and exceptional passenger experience, the 787 Dreamliner reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 25% compared to the airplanes it will replace.
Coinciding with the delivery of TAAG Angola Airlines’ first 787 Dreamliner, the airline is working with Boeing to purchase CO2 emissions reduction associated with blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) through an accounting process called book-and-claim. Distributors will deliver the blended SAF made available through these purchased certificates to nearby airports for use by airlines and other carriers.
Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook projects Africa will need 1,170 airplanes over the next two decades. Boeing airplanes have formed the backbone of Africa’s commercial fleet for over 75 years. More than 60 airlines operate around 500 Boeing airplanes throughout Africa, which represents nearly 70% of the airplane market across the continent.
Key areas of focus will include the role of policy stability in driving investor confidence, the impact of ESG compliance on financing and operations, and the growing importance of local beneficiation and value addition
CAPE TOWN, South Africa, January 31, 2025/APO Group/ —
As Africa’s mining industry navigates an era of transformation, CLG (www.CLGGlobal.com) will host an exclusive gathering of global investors, government representatives, legal experts, and energy industry leaders on Wednesday, 5 February 2025, to explore pathways for sustainable partnerships that drive long-term value creation.
Under the theme “African Mining Investors and Government: Forging Sustainable Partnerships,” the reception will serve as a premier platform for dialogue on the evolving regulatory environment, investment climate, and critical policy frameworks shaping the future of mining in Africa. With the continent’s vast mineral wealth presenting unparalleled opportunities, the ability to strike a balance between investment attractiveness, sustainability, and equitable resource governance remains at the forefront of industry discussions.
Key areas of focus will include the role of policy stability in driving investor confidence, the impact of ESG compliance on financing and operations, and the growing importance of local beneficiation and value addition. As governments refine their regulatory approaches to enhance sector transparency and long-term growth, legal expertise plays an increasingly vital role in ensuring that agreements, policies, and partnerships are structured for resilience and mutual benefit.
With global demand for critical minerals on the rise, Africa’s ability to position itself as a reliable and competitive supplier will depend on well-structured partnerships between public and private sector stakeholders. The event will highlight innovative approaches to cross-border collaboration, risk mitigation in mining investments, and strategies for ensuring resource nationalism policies align with sustainable economic development.
At CLG, we are committed to shaping the conversations that drive responsible and transformative mining investments on the continent
Bringing together high-profile decision-makers from across the global mining value chain, this reception will provide unparalleled networking opportunities, facilitating meaningful engagement on how best to harness Africa’s mineral wealth for long-term prosperity.
Zion Adeoye, Chief Executive Officer at CLG, emphasized the importance of robust legal frameworks in fostering investor confidence and ensuring mutually beneficial partnerships.
“Africa’s mining sector is entering a crucial phase where collaboration between investors and governments must be guided by well-defined legal and policy structures. Sustainable resource development requires not just capital investment, but strategic alignment between regulatory certainty, environmental stewardship, and local economic growth. At CLG, we are committed to shaping the conversations that drive responsible and transformative mining investments on the continent.”
Oneyka Cindy Ojogbo, a Partner at CLG, underscored the firm’s commitment to bridging the gap between legal innovation and industry growth.
“As the mining industry evolves, the need for strategic legal and regulatory guidance has never been greater. Investors and governments alike must adopt proactive legal frameworks that not only mitigate risk but also foster innovation and long-term sustainability. CLG is at the forefront of these discussions, ensuring that mining agreements, policies, and partnerships are structured to create lasting value for all stakeholders.”
Hosted by CLG, this reception underscores the firm’s leadership in navigating the legal, financial, and regulatory complexities of Africa’s mining sector. As a trusted advisor to investors, governments, and industry stakeholders, CLG remains committed to fostering strategic conversations that drive sustainable development and long-term economic success in the industry.
To be part of this high-level Reception, confirm your attendance by registering here: https://apo-opa.co/40KJQPE
Significant progress has already been achieved; 37 African countries, representing over 80% of the continent’s aviation market, have joined the SAATM initiative
DAKAR, Senegal, January 31, 2025/APO Group/ —
By Henok Teferra Shawl, Boeing Africa Managing Director (www.Boeing.com).
The liberalization of Africa’s air transport market, as envisioned through the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), is not just an aspirational goal — it is an economic necessity. A unified African sky, underpinned by the Joint Prioritized Action Plan (JPAP), promises to reduce travel costs for passengers, enhance connectivity, and catalyze economic growth and cultural exchange across the continent. The success of this initiative hinges on the active support and collaboration of governments, airlines and aircraft manufacturers such as Boeing.
The need for SAATM stems from longstanding challenges in Africa’s aviation sector: limited intra-African connectivity, high travel costs, fragmented regulations, constrained aircraft financing, and underdeveloped aviation infrastructure. These barriers have confined trade, tourism, economic and social integration for decades.
Aircraft manufacturers have a responsibility to help address these issues through policy engagement, partnerships, capacity building, and technology. We take pride in our role not just as fleet suppliers but critical enablers of the ecosystem and skills that Africa’s aviation industry needs to thrive.
Significant progress has already been achieved; 37 African countries, representing over 80% of the continent’s aviation market, have joined the SAATM initiative. Key regulatory frameworks are in place, including those for fair competition and consumer protection. Capacity-building programs for aviation professionals and improvements in safety standards are now aligned with international benchmarks.
Partnering with African airlines helps renew fleets with fuel-efficient and versatile aircraft designed to meet the continent’s unique operational requirements
However, to unlock SAATM’s full potential, sustained efforts are needed to address lingering challenges such as high operational costs, infrastructure gaps, and protectionist policies. Boeing is committed to contribute meaningfully in this regard.
Collaboration is a major lever. Aircraft manufacturers partner with governments and regional bodies to highlight the benefits of a liberalized air transport market. As an example, Boeing is an active participant in the African Aviation Industry Group. The group encourages more countries to commit to SAATM and work towards harmonizing regulatory standards, creating a more unified and efficient aviation ecosystem in Africa.
Air safety is one more area of collaboration across the continent. Aircraft manufacturers including Boeing support African countries in achieving the international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and help enhance regional air safety working closely with airlines and organizations like African Airlines Association (AFRAA).
Fleet modernization is another key area where aircraft manufacturers can make a significant impact. Partnering with African airlines helps renew fleets with fuel-efficient and versatile aircraft designed to meet the continent’s unique operational requirements. Modernized fleets reduce operational costs and emissions and make air travel more competitive, accessible, and sustainable, a critical factor for the success of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
Capacity building is another essential contribution. Training programs for pilots, engineers, airline management, and other aviation professionals are vital to supporting the sector’s rapid growth and elevating passenger experience. Aircraft manufacturers, with their expertise and resources, are well-positioned to deliver world-class training and share best practices – and we are spearheading these efforts. Additionally, community engagement programs for African youth provide systemic improvement in science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) education and economic empowerment, directly feeding the talent pipeline. All these initiatives equip Africa’s aviation workforce with the skills needed to ensure a robust, safe and capable industry.
Finally, infrastructure enhancement is another important building block to SAATM. By providing counsel and data-driven analytics, aircraft manufacturers can assist in modernizing airports and air traffic management systems. This ensures the infrastructure is prepared to handle the anticipated increase in air traffic, enhancing safety and facilitating smoother, more efficient operations across the continent.
A fully realized SAATM will enable seamless travel and economic growth, fostering unity, and positioning Africa as a competitive player in the global aviation industry. The collaborative efforts of the African Union Commission and its implementing agency, the African Civil Aviation Commission, national governments, civil aviation authorities, the African Development Bank, African Airlines Association, airlines, and aircraft manufacturers through the Joint Prioritized Action Plan in support of SAATM are pivotal in achieving this vision.
Working together, we can ensure Africa’s aviation renaissance and the realization of the African Union vision, Agenda 2063: an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.
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