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In chatbots we trust—but should we?

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ChatGPT

Chatbots have seamlessly integrated into our daily lives, aiding us with banking tasks, resolving inquiries, and even entertaining us with trivia games; But the burning question remains: should we truly trust them?

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, August 5, 2024/APO Group/ —

The rise of advanced language models like ChatGPT has ushered in a new era of human-like interactions, where chatbots can engage in natural conversations, solve complex problems, and even exhibit creative thinking. This remarkable progress has opened up a world of possibilities, but it also raises concerns about the reliability and accountability of these systems, warns Anna Collard, SVP Content Strategy and Evangelist at KnowBe4 AFRICA (www.KnowBe4.com).

“While most users have reported positive experiences with chatbots, instances of factual inaccuracies, hallucinations, and potential privacy risks have surfaced,” says Collard. A recent study (https://apo-opa.co/3LTtP2I) by Consumers International found that although 64% of participants would use chatbots again, a significant portion encountered reliability issues.

The cautionary tale of sports journalist Karien Jonckheere serves as a poignant example. Seeking inspiration for a cricket promo, Karien turned to ChatGPT, only to be met with a mix of accurate and fabricated match details that left her astounded. “It listed six matches, of which three were correct,” she remembers. “They completely fabricated the other three matches. It had given dates, venues, names of players, who scored the winning runs—all very specific, but completely made up.”

“This is one of the obvious dangers of using chatbots,” comments Collard. “While they excel at answering straightforward questions, they can sometimes generate responses that are factually incorrect or nonsensical.”

Privacy and security are also crucial factors to consider. As chatbots become privy to our personal information and preferences, concerns arise regarding the protection and potential misuse of this data. “The stakes are high, as chatbots are no longer mere novelties but integral components of our digital ecosystem. From banking transactions to critical decision-making processes, their influence continues to grow,” says Collard.

Benefits of using chatbots

The advantages of chatbots for individuals and businesses are undeniable. “Chatbots are available around the clock, providing immediate responses to queries, which is especially useful for different time zones and those needing after-hours help,” explains Collard.

Their knack for providing prompt solutions to basic queries enables companies to leverage them on a large scale, resulting in significant cost savings. “Chatbots excel in managing repetitive tasks tirelessly, such as addressing common questions or assisting users through standard procedures,” remarks Collard. “They can juggle many interactions concurrently, a feat unattainable for a team of human agents.”

Risks of using chatbots

However, challenges arise when chatbots encounter complex inquiries beyond their scope. “It’s important to remember that they don’t understand what they’re saying,” explains Collard. “They collate information from all over the web and stitch it together to formulate a response.”

As Jonckheere soon realised, chatbots are—for now at least—ill-equipped at intricate problem-solving and can invent details when they are unsure of facts. “They also lack human intuition, leading to difficulties in grasping subtleties, sarcasm, and context,” Collard says. That is why chatbots could be programmed to transfer complex queries to human operators where relevant, Collard suggests. “A robust chatbot system should offer the option to escalate the conversation to a human customer service representative for complex or sensitive queries that automated responses may not effectively address.”

Privacy and security considerations

Regarding privacy, it’s important to exercise caution when sharing sensitive details with a chatbot. That is why companies using these novel technologies should also have strict privacy compliance regulations in place.

“Chatbots typically collect user data to personalise interactions and improve services. And you may not want all your personal data being reused by the algorithm for other queries. Remember whatever we upload to public models such as ChatGPT, will be fed into their model, unless you specifically tick a setting that says otherwise. For companies making use of chatbots, it’s crucial that it is managed like any other system, meaning restrict its access to information that it absolutely needs access to, and ensuring that personal information is stored securely and managed according to strict privacy regulations, such as POPIA,” asserts Collard. “For chatbots that handle sensitive transactions, such as banking queries, they should authenticate users before any personal information is accessed or shared.”

From a security perspective, it is important to test chatbots for prompt injection attacks before launching them to consumers. “Similar to other software, regular updates are essential for chatbots to address vulnerabilities that malicious actors could exploit,” notes Collard. “A purpose-built chatbot should also incorporate security measures to thwart automated threats such as spam bots.”

So, can we trust chatbots? “I like using chatbots, however when I use it for research or for anything where I need accurate data, I will always double check the original sources,” she expresses. “It is great that chatbots are available 24/7 and can help with a task or query at lightning speed.”

However, collaboration between humans and machines is key. “The crucial aspect is integrating chatbots in a manner that complements the strengths of human agents, enabling a seamless transition to live assistance when needed,” Collard concludes. “Businesses can leverage the scalability and data-processing capabilities of chatbots, while users enjoy the convenience of instant and accessible service.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KnowBe4.

Business

Aurionpro expands its multi-country transaction banking engagement with Diamond Trust Bank (DTB)

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Aurionpro

Aurionpro’s upgraded iCashpro platform for DTB delivers a unified digital experience across payments, trade, virtual accounts, and real-time reporting, enhancing straight-through processing, visibility, and control for both the bank and its corporate customers

MUMBAI, India, April 30, 2026/APO Group/ –Aurionpro Solutions Limited (www.AurionPro.com) (BSE: 532668 | NSE: AURIONPRO)a global leader in banking technology, announced the expansion and upgrade of its transaction banking engagement with Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), to modernize and enhance the bank’s corporate transaction banking capabilities across multiple countries.

Download Document: https://apo-opa.co/4edHUaC

This multi-country transaction banking upgrade covering Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania aligns with DTB’s intent to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and support growing transaction volumes as it expands its regional corporate banking footprint. DTB continues to focus on building a more agile, ‘digital-first’ banking experience, particularly around payments for its corporate customers across Africa, and is now well positioned to scale these capabilities. As part of its broader transformation agenda, the bank has been steadily investing in platforms that enhance scale, reliability, and service consistency across markets.

Through this partnership, we are proud to lead the next era of transformation in transaction banking, helping DTB enhance operational agility

Aurionpro’s upgraded iCashpro platform for DTB delivers a unified digital experience across payments, trade, virtual accounts, and real-time reporting, enhancing straight-through processing, visibility, and control for both the bank and its corporate customers. By enabling DTB to standardize and scale its transaction banking operations across countries, the platform ensures consistent service levels, stronger control, and improved efficiency. It also supports enhanced user experience, advanced security, and the flexibility to introduce new features as DTB expands its regional transaction banking footprint.

Murali Natarajan (https://apo-opa.co/48trPdk), Managing Director & CEO, DTB Kenya   commented: “We are delighted to strengthen and broaden our partnership with Aurionpro Solutions as part of DTB’s ongoing digital transformation journey across multiple markets. Our focus on innovation, operational excellence, and customer-centricity continues to guide our technology investments. This upgrade strengthens our transaction banking capabilities, enabling us to deliver greater value to our customers through robust digital channels and seamlessly integrated experiences.”

Ashish Rai, Group CEO, Aurionpro Solutions, commented: “We are pleased to deepen our multi-country engagement with Diamond Trust Bank and support the next phase of its transaction banking modernization. As DTB continues to scale across markets, platform resilience and consistency become paramount. Through this partnership, we are proud to lead the next era of transformation in transaction banking, helping DTB enhance operational agility, deliver superior experiences to corporate customers, and create long-term value across geographies.”

He added, “Aurionpro’s iCashpro lays a strong digital foundation for transaction & wholesale banks across the globe to grow their corporate and SME client portfolio today, while creating a clear roadmap for next- generation capabilities in AI-driven insights, advanced automation and API-led connectivity for businesses in Kenya and across Africa.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Aurionpro Solutions Ltd.

 

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Minerals Council Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Joins African Mining Week (AMW) as South Africa Improves Sectorial Investment Climate

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Energy Capital

Minerals Council CEO to share insights on policy, infrastructure and investment trends shaping South Africa’s mining industry

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, April 30, 2026/APO Group/ –The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) conference will feature Mzila Mthenjane, CEO of the Minerals Council of South Africa, as a speaker. Scheduled for October 14 – 16, 2026 in Cape Town, the event will bring together global investors, policymakers and industry leaders, with Mthenjane’s participation highlighting the council’s commitment to engaging international stakeholders and promoting investment across South Africa’s mining sector.

His participation comes at a critical moment as the Minerals Council works closely with government on finalizing the Mineral Resources Development Bill 2025, a policy framework aimed at strengthening the country’s mining investment climate and the sector’s contribution to GDP. According to the council, the revised legislation will support new investment across the value chain as South Africa seeks to mobilize R2 trillion over the next five years to unlock its critical minerals potential.

The policy reforms come amid shifting production trends in the sector. In 2025, South Africa recorded declines in gold and platinum group metals output of 1.9% and 4.1%, respectively. The new regulatory framework is expected to strengthen public-private partnerships and stimulate investment, enabling South Africa to increase production and capitalize on strong global commodity prices. Increased private sector investments is crucial with South Africa seeking targeting to unlock an estimated R40 trillion in untapped iron ore potential as well as maintain its position as the world’s leading producer of chrome and manganese.

At AMW 2026, Mthenjane is expected to outline these trends, providing insights into how the council is contributing to addressing challenges disrupting the sector. Infrastructure and energy costs remain key concerns for industry players. To support the energy-intensive sector, South Africa approved a 35% reduction in electricity tariffs for major ferrochrome producers, helping stabilize an industry that has faced significant cost pressures after electricity prices surged by roughly 900% since 2008.

Logistics constraints are also a priority area for reform. South Africa’s economy is losing an estimated R1 billion per day due to inefficiencies across rail and port infrastructure. As a result, the government is considering measures supported by the Minerals Council to increase private sector participation in logistics. Planned reforms include rail modernization initiatives targeting 250 million tons of freight capacity by 2029, alongside port upgrades and private operator participation aimed at strengthening mineral exports and improving supply chain efficiency.

Beyond infrastructure and policy reforms, the Minerals Council is advocating for stronger exploration investment to support long-term industry growth.

At AMW, Mthenjane is expected to highlight these developments and outline the steps required to reinforce South Africa’s position in the global minerals supply chain. His insights will offer investors and stakeholders a timely perspective on opportunities within the country’s mining sector.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Seychelles Targets Energy Investment Push as Minister Jérémie Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 as a Speaker

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African Energy Chamber

Seychelles energy minister will speak at AEW 2026, positioning her to highlight reforms, renewable projects and investment opportunities as the island nation advances its transition toward a diversified energy system

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, April 29, 2026/APO Group/ –Marie-May Jérémie, Minister of Environment, Climate, Energy and Natural Resources for Seychelles will participate as a speaker at this year’s African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, taking place from October 12–16 in Cape Town. Her participation underscores the country’s growing role in shaping Africa’s small-island energy transition agenda.

Minister Jérémie’s presence at AEW 2026 comes at a critical time as Seychelles accelerates efforts to reduce its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. The event provides a platform to attract investment, strengthen policy alignment and showcase bankable projects, positioning the country as a viable destination for private-sector participation in island energy systems.

Seychelles is demonstrating how policy reform and innovation can unlock investment in constrained environments

In May last year, international finance institution the World Bank approved the Renewable Energy Acceleration Program, a seven-year initiative aimed at modernizing the grid and increasing renewable energy penetration to 15% by 2030. The program focuses on unlocking private capital while strengthening transmission infrastructure to accommodate variable renewable energy sources.

Project development is gaining traction in the country, particularly in innovative technologies suited to Seychelles’ land constraints. The 5.8 MW Seysun Lagoon floating solar PV project, developed by independent renewable power producer Qair, is under construction and expected online in 2026.

Alongside renewables, Seychelles continues to pursue upstream opportunities to diversify its economy. The government approved new exploration entrants in 2025 and extended exiting petroleum agreements, while securing an infrastructure partnership with China. Multilateral estimates suggest over $800 million in investment will be required over the next 25 years.

Regulatory reform is central to this transition, with Seychelles introducing an independent power producer framework to open the market to private developers. Standardized power purchase agreements, grid access reforms and strengthened public-private partnership structures are being implemented to improve transparency, reduce risk and accelerate project bankability across solar, storage and emerging wind opportunities.

“Minister Jérémie’s participation highlights the strategic importance of island nations in Africa’s broader energy transition,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber. “Seychelles is demonstrating how policy reform and innovation can unlock investment in constrained environments. Her insights will be critical to advancing dialogue on resilient, low-carbon energy systems across the continent.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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