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Platform-based ecosystems are Africa’s new plane of competition

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mobile usage

Never has there been such a surge in mobile usage and application development to meet the demands and challenges of fast-paced consumers who increasingly rely on mobile devices to connect with brands

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, December 13, 2022/APO Group/ — 

We are amid a major digital revolution dominating every sector of the economy.

According to Yaron Assabi, Founder & CEO of MVNE, part of the Digital Solutions Group, “Enterprises now focus on enabling consumers, employees, and ecosystem partners. Companies no longer just serve customers; they collaborate with them. They no longer just compete with rivals; they partner with them. They’re no longer limited by industry boundaries; they ignore them. In short: platform-based ecosystems are the new plane of competition.”

In fact, it is becoming such a strong and competitive position that companies are now partnering across the ecosystem to encourage consumer-facing brands to incorporate new profitable mobile services into their value proposition and launch ‘ Branded Mobile services’  or MVNOs ( Mobile Virtual Network Operators ).

Never has there been such a surge in mobile usage and application development to meet the demands and challenges of fast-paced consumers who increasingly rely on mobile devices to connect with brands.

“Consumers demand tailored products and services for their needs and the ability to offer a non-comparative customer value proposition based on niche value combining the core business and telco into a differentiated offering. It is a critical success factor for MVNO’s” adds Assabi. “A targeted customer value proposition to a niche customer segment can gain a lot of traction quickly. That’s exactly where Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) and their technology partners, Mobile Virtual Services Enablers (MVNE) should focus. The MNO (Mobile Network Operator) or host network sees tremendous benefit from very profitable customer relationships because of the wholesale business model construct whereby all of the billing and customer service responsibility, including service costs, lies with the MVNO and it enables the MNO to “sweat its assets” with no major additional resources required and hence improvement in profitability.”

“That is a lot of acronyms but it’s an eco-system that works when executed well.”

An MVNE empowers brands to focus on their go-to-market strategy, mitigating the risk and reducing the expenditure and requirement for people and skills for their MVNO.

According to Assabi, “we help to “Mobilise your brand” and help brands combine their core business with Telco to design a unique customer value proposition. MVNE is the enabler for DSTV Internet (https://bit.ly/3BvQ0Hz), a huge success, given it solves the need to combine content and connectivity in Africa. We know that for consumers, the cost of data is the biggest part of the spend when streaming entertainment, therefore, a cost-effective communications solution is critical to making content more accessible anywhere, anytime, on any device.”

An MVNE empowers brands to focus on their go-to-market strategy, mitigating the risk and reducing the expenditure and requirement for people and skills for their MVNO

(https://bit.ly/3UWt3E2)

Did you know that 50% of Africans have mobile phones? This means that mobile technology is the largest platform in Africa and can access a wide range of income groups.

“Furthermore, if we take that AppsAfrica reports Mobile App downloads have surpassed 98 billion, we can see how fast this market is growing. And added to this Hootsuite (https://bit.ly/3PkcMrr), has indicated that South Africans are higher than the global average, spending more than 10 hours a day on the internet, connecting via mobile devices. Therefore, a brand needs to ensure that it creates on-demand, personal, engaging experiences with and for consumers when targeting them on their mobile.”

“Over the last few years, the MVNO market has proven itself in Africa to create more competition and as a result make data services more affordable, especially given that we have one of the highest data charges in the world, which does not make sense for Africa where we desperately need to create digital adoption and create “digital jobs”, says Assabi.  

“As the first MVNE in South Africa, founded in 2013, we have spent time educating the market about the importance of a strategic partnership between the MNO (Mobile Network Operator and MVNO) and we paid a lot of attention to the critical success factors required to ensure that we reduce the high mortal rate of MVNO’s and equip them with the tools for success.”

Our MVNE does not only provide all the technology platforms required to run a successful MVNO but offers a “white glove service “from customer value proposition design, and commercial viability, to smart people that can provide a managed service,” says Assabi.

“So, yes, while MVNOs are focused on creating value, by linking a mobile offering to a brands existing products and services, MVNE can offer managed services to the MVNO as well as a “pay as you grow” or “shared risk and success model” as it differentiates on products and services – and builds an eco-system that is backed by positive customer experience.  

In creating platform-based ecosystems and smart collaboration between businesses that may compete and collaborate at the same time, it is important to identify and partner with service providers who have experience in scaling and developing these niche solutions.  “In our case partners who have built their experience on the African continent. Such is the case with NetEngage, who currently service 38,6M subscribers across ten MVNOs and manage 19,4 Billion calls per year. 

So, yes, I reiterate again, platform-based ecosystems are the new plane of competition,” concludes Assabi. “Branded mobile services are not only an important way to create more competition, and offer consumers more choice, but when done correctly, allows companies to compete in this increasingly competitive landscape.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MVNE (Pty) Ltd.

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Namibian President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to Open Namibia International Energy Conference 2025

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Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah

The Namibia International Energy Conference 2025, under the patronage of the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy, will be officially opened by President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, marking a historic milestone in Namibia’s journey to becoming a global energy hub

WINDHOEK, Namibia, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ –The Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) is proud to announce that the President of the Republic of Namibia, Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, will officially open the 2025 edition of the conference.

“We are deeply honoured that Her Excellency, the President of the Republic of Namibia, will officially open this year’s conference. Her participation marks a historic milestone for NIEC and reaffirms the government’s commitment to harnessing Namibia’s energy potential for shared prosperity. It also reflects the kind of forward-looking leadership that is essential to positioning Namibia as an emerging leader in the global energy landscape.” said Ndapwilapo Selma Shimutwikeni, Founder & CEO of RichAfrica Consultancy and Convenor of NIEC.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah is a committed advocate for ensuring that Namibia derives maximum value from its natural resources through value addition and sustainable development, with a focus on uplifting the Namibian people and strengthening local capacity.

We are deeply honoured that Her Excellency, the President of the Republic of Namibia, will officially open this year’s conference

As Namibia lays the foundations to become an energy hub, NIEC 2025 will explore the key building blocks needed to realize this vision. These include enabling investment, strengthening institutions, advancing infrastructure and environmental stewardship, promoting local content and reinforcing good governance. Energy is increasingly recognized as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable development – unlocking industrialization, economic diversification, job creation and long-term prosperity.

Now in its 7th edition, NIEC 2025 will be held under the theme, “Leading the Way: Becoming an Energy Hub with In-Country Value,” and is scheduled to take place from 23-25 April 2025 at the Windhoek Country Club Resort, Windhoek, Namibia.

Since its inception in 2012 under the theme, “A Road to Discovery and Beyond,” the conference has evolved into a premier platform for high-level dialogue, thought leadership and strategic engagement. It has played a crucial role in shaping discourse around Namibia’s emerging oil and gas industry and its broader energy sector.

The event draws a global audience, including OPEC representatives, senior executives from international oil companies, prominent service providers, investors and industry experts. It has also welcomed numerous government leaders from across Africa, including ministers of energy, as well as Namibia’s own public and private sector leaders.

NIEC 2025 will feature a strategic program of panels, dialogues and expert-led sessions designed to unpack the conference theme and spotlight key issues and opportunities that will define the future of the energy industry. The 2025 edition is expected to welcome over 1,000 delegates from across the globe, reinforcing its position as the country’s premier energy platform.

The conference is held under the patronage of the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy of the Republic of Namibia and is curated and convened by RichAfrica Consultancy, with the African Energy Chamber as a strategic partner.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber

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Ministry of Health and KAOUN International launch GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA in Morocco

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GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA

GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco will drive unprecedented impact across Africa, leveraging breakthroughs in technology and AI to enhance quality and access to healthcare

MARRAKECH, Morocco, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ –During the third annual edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco (www.GITEXAfrica.com), the continent’s largest tech and startup show, His Excellency Mr. Amine Tehraoui, Morocco’s Minister of Health and Social Protection announced the launch of GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco – in partnership with KAOUN International, organiser of GITEX in Africa and globally.

The much anticipated and pivotal event for the healthcare economy was officially launched with the signing of the partnership agreement, and will be held under the authority of Morocco’s Minister of Health and Social Protection, hosted in partnership with Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health (FM6SS), and organised by KOAUN International, the organiser of GITEX in Africa and globally.

To be hosted in Casablanca from 21-23 April 2026, GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco, featuring GITEX DIGI_HEALTH, is set to lead the transformation impetus of Morocco and Africa to combat challenges in healthcare information, delivery, access and efficiency, capitalising on the emergence of AI and digital technologies.

The event will prioritise public-private partnerships which are particularly instrumental in this digital mission to advance the industry productively and efficiently

H.E. Mr. Amine Tehraoui, Minister of Health and Social Protection, stated: “GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco embodies the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to health as a fundamental and universal human right, enshrined in our national vision for health system reform. As digital innovation, data intelligence, and health tech increasingly shape the future of care delivery across Africa, this platform reinforces Morocco’s position as a regional hub for collaboration, talent, and investment. Through international partnerships, strategic innovation, and shared expertise, we have a unique opportunity to co-build inclusive, resilient, and people-centered healthcare systems for the continent and beyond.”

For its part, the Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health emphasized its strategic vision: “As a major player in the fields of health, training, and scientific research, the Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health is committed, alongside the Ministry of Health and Social Protection and KAOUN International, to making Morocco a continental hub for healthtech. By contributing its medical and academic expertise through the development of digital health and medical technologies in Morocco and Africa, we aim to help shape the healthcare ecosystem of tomorrow.”

Morocco has emerged as a pioneer in digital health initiatives and advancing expeditiously towards an integrated health information system, fostering the adoption of innovative medical technologies to build a resilient healthcare infrastructure and system. The African healthcare market is estimated to be worth US$259 billion and expected to become the second biggest market after the US by 2030.

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, organiser of GITEX globally, commented: “There is urgency from governments and healthcare institutions worldwide – and especially in Africa – to modernise and digitise their healthcare services to increase reach, reduce healthcare costs and deliver better patient outcomes. GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco will highlight the role and growing influence of AI and new digital solutions to improve data-driven decision making and reduce health inequities. The event will prioritise public-private partnerships which are particularly instrumental in this digital mission to advance the industry productively and efficiently.”

The three-day event will open with an agenda shaping leadership summit tackling powerful themes – accelerating cutting-edge solutions set to transform access, outcomes and health equity. Targeting decision-making executives from hospitals and healthcare institutions, health ministers and government leaders, CIOs, CTOs, innovators and disruptors, and public health policymakers – topics during the summit will explore health infrastructure, expanded access to healthcare, investment and research, data security and national records integration, health and data analytics, and AI-powered diagnostics.

An exhibition will bring together top researchers, practitioners, innovators, and experts from the global healthcare industry – representing Africa’s most important gathering of medical & lab equipment, imaging & diagnostics, IT systems & solutions, healthcare infrastructure, healthcare transformation, smart hospitals, healthcare management, and digital health management systems in Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa

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Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG) Appoints APO Group Founder, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, to Advisory Board

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Critical Minerals

CMAG gives Africa and the companies operating within the African critical minerals ecosystem a voice in discussions about supply chains and shaping policy

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ –APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and leading press release distribution service, is pleased to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), has been appointed to the newly formed Advisory Board of the Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG).

With its mission being to position Africa as a leader in critical minerals, CMAG (www.CMAGAfrica.com) is dedicated to advancing responsible sourcing and sustainable development of Africa’s critical mineral resources, while ensuring that local economies benefit from the continent’s mineral wealth. With approximately 40% of the world’s essential minerals reserves estimated to be held in Sub-Saharan Africa alone, the region plays a key role in the global energy transition and advanced technologies.

Pompigne-Mognard’s appointment to the Advisory Board follows the announcement of a strategic partnership between APO Group and CMAG aimed at raising the global prominence of Africa’s critical minerals sector. The partnership leverages APO Group’s public relations and strategic communications expertise and CMAG’s industry leadership. Complementing this, Pompigne-Mognard’s ability to connect clients with key stakeholders from governments, private companies, and organisations of all sizes will be invaluable in showcasing Africa’s role in the global essential resources supply chain and elevating the profile of Africa’s critical minerals sector.

In my advisory role, I look forward to supporting all initiatives as CMAG showcases Africa’s critical minerals potential in a responsible and sustainable manner

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the CMAG Advisory Board. His vast network across industries, governments, and institutions, his deep understanding of Africa’s media and technology landscapes, and his extensive business experience will equip him to work alongside fellow Advisory Board members to shape positive perceptions of Africa’s critical minerals sector amongst global stakeholders and audiences.

A Franco-Gabonese entrepreneur named among the 100 Most Influential Africans in 2023 and 2024, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard serves on multiple high-profile advisory boards and international committees. These include the Senior Advisory Board of the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business and the Leadership Council of the Africa Tech Festival, as well as the Advisory Boards of the African Energy Chamber, World Football Summit, Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa, Sports Africa Investment Summit, EurAfrican Forum, and All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). He is also a strategic advisor to the Chief Executive Officer of the Royal African Society of the United Kingdom, a strategic advisor to the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce, and a special advisor to the President of Rugby Africa, the governing body of rugby in Africa.

Nicolas’ wholly-owned company, APO Group, is the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. It serves more than 300 clients, including global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, UNDP, Network International, the African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

“Being appointed to the Critical Minerals Africa Group Advisory Board is an immense honour. CMAG is vital in safeguarding Africa’s critical minerals for future generations. In my advisory role, I look forward to supporting all initiatives as CMAG showcases Africa’s critical minerals potential in a responsible and sustainable manner,” said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman of APO Group.

Other members of the Advisory Board include Natznet Tesfay, Executive Director, Head of Insights and Analytics, S&P Global, and Richard Morgan, Former Head of Government Relations, Anglo-American PLC.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group

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