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Retail Trends – 2022 & Beyond

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Mike Smollan, Chief Growth and Innovation Officer at Smollan looks at retail trends for the third and fourth quarters of this year and beyond, and what these means for growth

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, August 25, 2022/APO Group/ — 

Gears switched at the beginning of 2022 as we entered a new phase in a retail eco-system that was still massaging aches and pains and playing catch up with new consumer behavioural patterns evolving as – ‘new ways of doing things’, ‘adaptability’ and ‘having an evolving mindset’, became the rallying cry.

What lies beyond in this ever-changing landscape as we look to the now and beyond – sees physical stores becoming critical touchpoints; how some pandemic shopping behaviours are here to stay; consumers turning to less traditional shopping platforms such as Instagram and TikTok while commerce companies are exploring the metaverse. Together, in the opinion of www.myTotalRetail.com – these new ways of doing things will offer consumers far more satisfying ways to shop, while providing opportunities for traders to convert shoppers into customers

Globally, overwhelmed supply chains, supply-demand imbalances and commodity-driven cost pressures as Russia invaded Ukraine, pushed inflation up and put further pressure on businesses and consumers alike. Despite this, according to a recent Shopify article [June 2022], economists and the National Retail Federation in the US project US retail sales to rise between 6% and 8% this year.

Closer to home, NielsenIQ South Africa released its monthly State of the Retail Nation analysis which shows that total annual retail sales at South African retail outlets were R516-Billion which represents a 14.4% annual increase. “South Africans are shopping at fewer retailers but spending more per trip, with the average value of their shopping basket increasing by R131 since April 2020,” said NielsenIQ SA Managing Director, Ged Nooy.

Emerging technologies like social commerce will offer the industry new ways to integrate shopping carts using Facebook, Instagram and TikTok

Mindful of the expected growth predictions and with price hikes and inflationary concerns – to stay competitive the retail trade will once again have to adapt, with the following trend considerations under the spotlight from now, into next year:

  1. Emerging technologies like social commerce will offer the industry new ways to integrate shopping carts using Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Partnering recommendations from influencers, friends, and family leading to increased sales [TotalRetail].
  1. An increase in buy online, pick up in-store services, QR codes that allow shoppers to connect instantly, mobile point-of-sale systems to allow sales anywhere inside a store and a range of contactless payment options – will have data winning the day [TotalRetail].
  1. Customer centricity will remain king going into 2023 – essential to allow for synchronicity between marketing, products, supply chain and ecommerce or brick and mortar to present products, services, and experiences customers desire and expect [Modern Marketing].
  1. By 2030, the top 18 cities in Africa could have a combined spending power of $1.3tn. Businesses at the coal face are already looking to invest in these markets in order to reap the potential they may have ten or even 20 years down the line. Unlocking this potential will require strong local partnerships and a deep understanding of local markets [BizCommunity].
  1. Key digital marketing trends for the South African retail industry to be aware of include – prioritising the omnichannel customer experience that has not necessarily come to full fruition yet; monetising digital efforts by tracking the entire customer journey to understand how each individual channel is contributing to ecommerce conversions, and the growing utilisation of dark social channels where the user journey is encrypted such as Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp – where brands are for example investing in the creation of WhatsApp bots as an innovative way to reach these audiences[Modern Marketing].

Seizing new opportunities for innovative growth are undoubtedly part of every retail or commerce strategy and trends certainly bring fresh perspective. However now that we have had more time to swing back operationally, I would throw my own ‘left-of -centre-trend-shapeshifter’ into the mix around being curious, as there can be no innovation without curiosity. We say it, as we look for new perspectives to old problems, but do we really make space for curiosity as a conscious daily practice. It should become a habitual tool for retailers, brands, and organisations to help undercover what innovative buttons they need to push.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Smollan

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West African Chambers of Mines to Advance Regional Mining Collaboration at Mining in Motion (MIM) 2025

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Mining in Motion 2025 will host the ECOWAS Federation of Chamber of Mines in high-level panel discussions and exclusive networking sessions

ACCRA, Ghana, April 23, 2025/APO Group/ –The upcoming Mining in Motion (MIM) 2025 Summit – taking place from June 2-4 in Accra, Ghana – will feature the participation of Adama Soro, Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Federation of Chambers of Mines (EFEDCOM).

Soro will participate in a panel session alongside representatives from the World Gold Council, Newmont Africa, AngloGold Ashanti and the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners. The Fostering Synergies Between Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners: Maximizing Gold Value Through Collaboration session will explore how partnerships between small- and large-scale miners can boost Ghana and West Africa’s gold industry through strategic collaboration.

In Ghana, major international firms such as AngloGold Ashanti, Newmont Africa, Gold Fields and Galiano Gold are increasing investments (https://apo-opa.co/3YcFD6H) in the country’s gold sector. Cardinal Resources is developing the 358,000-ounce-per-annum Cardinal Namdini Mine, set to launch by mid-2025, while Newmont is advancing the expansion of its Ahafo Mine.

Ghana has maintained its position as Africa’s largest gold producer – and sixth-largest globally – while Burkina Faso and Mali rank among Africa’s other leading producers. EFEDCOM’s participation at MIM 2025 will highlight current partnership opportunities across West Africa and among small- and large-scale miners to drive regional mining sector development.

EFEDCOM will also take part in exclusive networking sessions focused on identifying effective strategies for Ghana to address industry challenges and unlock new growth through collaboration and innovation. As a consortium that brings together mining chambers and companies from across the ECOWAS regional mining value chain, EFEDCOM plays a key role in advancing regional market integration to optimize resource use and boost GDP. The organization advocates for investor-friendly policies and sustainable mining practices that reinforce Ghana and West Africa’s position as leading global destinations for mining investment.

Organized by the Ashanti Green Initiative, in partnership with the World Bank, the World Gold Council and other international stakeholders, the MIM 2025 Summit will convene top-tier decision-makers, including H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of Ghana, along with representatives from the African Union and the United Nations. Held at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, the summit will take place under the theme Sustainable Mining & Local Growth – Leveraging Resources for Global Impact.

Stay informed about the latest advancements, network with industry leaders, and engage in critical discussions on key issues impacting small-scale miners and medium to large scale mining in Ghana. Secure your spot at the Mining in Motion 2025 Summit by visiting https://MininginMotionSummit.com/. For sponsorship opportunities or delegate participation, contact sales@ashantigreeninitiative.org.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power

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The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST) Africa and Mastercard Foundation Announce Selection of 12 Companies for Second Cohort of EdTech Fellowship in Ghana

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This six-month entrepreneurship acceleration program is dedicated to supporting Africa’s most promising EdTech ventures by equipping them with mentorship, funding, and expertise

MEST Africa (www.Meltwater.org), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has announced its second cohort of 12 innovative companies for the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship in Ghana. This six-month entrepreneurship acceleration program is dedicated to supporting Africa’s most promising EdTech ventures by equipping them with mentorship, funding, and expertise in the science of learning. These newly selected companies are set to scale their groundbreaking solutions and address pressing educational challenges across Ghana.

The Second cohort builds on the success of the first cohort of 12 EdTech Companies, whose solutions impacted over 136,798 learners during the period of acceleration, underscoring the Fellowship’s ability to drive transformative change.

“We are thrilled to welcome the second cohort of the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship,” said Angela Duho, Program Manager at MEST Africa. “In Ghana, EdTech is not just about innovation—it’s about creating equal opportunities for every student, no matter where they live. It empowers teachers with the tools they need to inspire, and it prepares our youth for a future where digital skills are essential. The first cohort has already shown us what’s possible, and we’re confident that these new Fellows will continue to transform education and unlock potential across the country.”

The 12 EdTech companies selected for the 2025 cohort demonstrated strengths in [please add here] that point to Ghana’s educational needs. Over the next six months, they will benefit from comprehensive support, including expert mentorship, access to funding, and specialized training, enabling them to scale their solutions effectively and sustainably.

The EdTech companies selected by MEST Africa for the 2025 Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship are:

  1. TECHAiDE (https://TECHAiDE.Global/) is a social enterprise committed to enhancing education, youth development, and healthcare throughout Africa. Since 2011, they have collaborated with global partners to deliver practical, affordable, and lasting solutions that uplift individuals, strengthen communities, and support institutions in creating brighter futures

In Ghana, EdTech is not just about innovation—it’s about creating equal opportunities for every student, no matter where they live

  1. MooslaTrain (https://apo-opa.co/3S08HuA) is redefining math education in Ghana by sparking curiosity and confidence in students. This is done through community-driven math clubs and digital learning tools that make math approachable and fun, equipping young learners with the skills to thrive in STEM and beyond.
  2. Scribble Works Publishing House (https://ScribbleWorks.carrd.co/) is passionate about enriching education in Africa by providing educators and students with affordable, curriculum-aligned materials and interactive digital tools, fostering engaging learning experiences backed by actionable insights.
  3. InovTech STEM Center is an innovation hub devoted to bringing STEM education to underserved communities. Through hands-on robotics and coding programs—like STEM4Her, Powered Girl, and Powered Boy—they inspire students and teachers to develop skills that open doors to new opportunities.
  4. STEMAIDE (www.STEMAIDE.com) is focused on reshaping education in Africa by nurturing problem-solving, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit in young people. STEMAIDE strives to prepare the next generation with the tools and mindset to succeed in an ever-changing world.
  5. Nikasemo Technologies (www.Nikasemo.com) is dedicated to enhancing the classroom experience in basic schools with their software and hardware solutions that streamline school operations and create dynamic, engaging learning environments that help students reach their full potential.
  6. Jesi AI (https://AI.UseJesi.com/) is a generative AI assistant supporting teachers in Ghana’s junior and senior high schools. By simplifying the creation of high-quality, curriculum-aligned lesson plans and materials, Jesi AI saves educators time while also acting as a virtual tutor to guide students and track their growth.
  7. Metaschool AI (https://MetaschoolApp.com/) is an educational app designed with BECE and WASSCE students in Ghana in mind. Offering interactive video lessons from top instructors, Metaschool provides a flexible, student-paced learning platform that makes academic success more achievable.
  8. Maxim Nyansa Foundation (https://MaximNyansa.com/) empowers high school students and teachers across Africa with vital IT infrastructure and educational software. By tapping into open-source solutions, Maxim Nyansa improves access to quality education and works to close the digital gap.
  9. The Ghana Olympiad Academy (https://GhanaOlympiadAcademy.com/), through its Academic Talent Development Programme, brings hands-on STEM learning to learners in Ghana. They nurture talent in literacy, numeracy, and STEM, preparing young minds for leadership and innovation on a global stage.
  10. Asah Maker-Space is passionate about automation, robotics, 3D printing, coding, and construction. Asah Makerspace’s team of skilled educators and tech enthusiasts empowers the next generation of creators through immersive, practical learning experiences.
  11. Craft Education Technologies (www.CraftEducation.io) bridges the gap between therapists, parents, and teachers to create a seamless support system for children with behavior and learning challenges, including autism. This collaborative model ensures that every child receives the individualized attention they need to succeed.

“The Mastercard Foundation looks to support the acceleration of EdTech solutions that reach all, including those out-of-school young people who are constantly left out of the education ecosystem. For it is when we design with the end user in mind that the business case for the solutions is more scalable, sustainable and impactful. Our collaboration with MEST Africa is to transform education in Ghana through technology-enabled learning”, added Rodwell Mangisi, the Acting Director of the Mastercard Foundation Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning.

Through the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship, this cohort will embark on a transformative journey, gaining mentorship from experts in education innovation, sustainability, and scale, access to courses on the science of learning, and equity-free grants. This robust support aims to scale their solutions and elevate educational outcomes for millions across Ghana and Africa.

For more information about the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship and MEST Africa initiatives, visit www.Meltwater.org.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST Africa)

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Azule Energy Joins Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2025 as Gold Sponsor Ahead of Major Project Launches

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Azule Energy is advancing a series of major upstream projects in Angola, including the country’s first non-associated gas project and a landmark offshore oil initiative

LUANDA, Angola, April 22, 2025/APO Group/ –International energy company Azule Energy has confirmed its participation as a Gold Sponsor at the upcoming Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2025 conference, taking place in Luanda on September 3-4. As Angola’s largest independent equity producer of oil and gas, Azule Energy’s return to the event underscores its continued commitment to working closely with operators, service providers and government partners to drive forward the country’s energy agenda.

Azule Energy is advancing a series of large-scale oil and gas projects across the country, including Angola’s first non-associated gas project. Led by the New Gas Consortium (NGC) with Azule Energy as operator, the project will tap gas resources from the Quiluma and Maboqueiro (Q&M) shallow water fields. In February 2025, the NGC completed the offshore platforms for the project, with the Quiluma platform departing shortly thereafter for the installation site. The full development includes two offshore platforms and an onshore gas processing plant and will supply feedstock to Angola LNG, the country’s sole LNG facility. Production is expected to start in late 2025 or early 2026, with the platforms delivered six months ahead of schedule.

AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute; national oil company Sonangol; and the African Energy Chamber; the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Another major development underway is the Agogo Integrated West Hub Development in Block 15/06. In February 2025, Azule Energy and its project partners announced the sail-away of the Agogo FPSO from the shipyard in China to Angola. The FPSO is expected to begin operations by late 2025, joining the existing Ngoma FPSO and producing hydrocarbons from the Agogo and Ndungu fields. The new unit will boost production by 120,000 barrels per day (bpd) and features cutting-edge carbon capture and storage technology. Notably, it incorporates the world’s first post-combustion CO₂ capture plants installed on an FPSO, marking a significant step forward in reducing emissions from offshore production.

Azule Energy’s broader portfolio includes 18 licenses – 11 of which the company operates – spanning both Angola and Namibia. In December 2024, the company finalized a strategic farm-in to Block 2914A in Namibia’s PEL 85, marking its first international expansion. In 2024, Azule’s net production reached 210,000 bpd, with oil and condensates making up 80% of output. The company is targeting 250,000 bpd by 2027 as it advances its upstream operations.

In addition to oil and gas, Azule Energy is leading efforts to deliver low-carbon energy solutions in Angola. In partnership with Sonangol, the company is developing the Caraculo Solar Project in Namibe Province, with a total capacity of 50 MW. Phase one came online in 2023, delivering 25 MW of clean power to the grid.

Azule Energy is also deeply committed to local content and social development. In 2024, the company inaugurated a new school in Huambo, offering educational access to 720 students. Alongside its Block 15/06 partners, it also handed over two education facilities to the Government of Cabinda in 2024, funded by project revenues and reinforcing the social impact of Angola’s energy industry

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power

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