Exclusive: Bolt launches in Botswana and waives driver commission for six months
Bolt, the Estonian ride-hailing company, is launching in Gaborone, the capital city of Botswana, and will compete in a market with only one other ride-hailing player: inDrive. Bolt will not charge its typical commission from drivers, usually between 15% and 20% of the ride fee, for six months as part of its rollout. The company said 100 drivers have been onboarded so far. Bolt’s launch in Botswana continues the company’s expansion in southern Africa. It has launched in Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia in the last six months. Botswana is the 14th African country that Bolt has launched since first launching in South Africa in 2016. “We are thrilled to introduce our services in Botswana,” said Laurent Koerge, head of expansion at Bolt. “Our aim is to increase earnings for our drivers while fostering high demand through competitive pricing.” Bolt enters a Botswana ride-hailing market ripe for growth but also presents a challenging operating environment for ride-hailing platforms. inDrive was the first platform to test out the Botswana market, launching in the country five years ago. It remained the only platform in the country until now. Although it has blown up in popularity, perhaps showing the amount of demand for ride-hailing in the country, inDrive has faced numerous challenges, including allegations of driver misconduct as well as pushback from public transport operators. Bolt has features such as an SOS button, which allows riders and drivers to contact the police instantly; driver unmatching, which will allow a rider or driver never to be matched up with one another; and a “share my ride” option which will allow both parties to share real-time ride information. The platform will also require drivers to have all the requisite licenses from local regulators. Through these features, the company will be hoping to address the issues of safety and misconduct that have plagued ride-hailing in Botswana. In early 2023, Bolt announced its plan to invest over €500 million in the African market. One of its initiatives was to offer job opportunities to over 300,000 driver partners. The company operates in 45 countries globally, serving over 150 million customers and working with over 3 million drivers.
Read MoreCanal+ must make mandatory offer for MultiChoice shares, SA Takeover Panel rules
South Africa’s Takeover Regulation Panel (TRP) has ruled that Canal+, the French broadcaster, must now make a mandatory offer to MultiChoice’s ordinary shareholders after its stake in the company crossed the 35% threshold. According to the Companies Act of 2008 and JSE Listings Requirements, Canal+ must immediately make a bid for the outstanding MultiChoice shares it does not own. The mandatory offer will come three weeks after Canal+’s initial $1.7 billion bid for outstanding shares. Canal+ tests the waters with a bid to buy MultiChoice “The Board has concluded that the proposed offer price of R105 in cash significantly undervalues the Group and its future prospects,” the company told shareholders in a public statement rejecting the bid on February 1. However, the Takeover Regulation Panel ruled Wednesday that Multichoice’s public disclosure of the initial $1.7 billion offer was unlawful and issued a compliance notice against the broadcaster. MultiChoice will appeal that decision. Canal+ increased its focus on Africa in the past decade and has grown from just 1 million African subscribers in 2016 to 7.6 million in 2023. In July 2019, it bought ROK Studios, a prolific Nigerian film production company, from IrokoTV to increase its slate of original content offerings.
Read More
👨🏿🚀TechCabal Daily – Kenya’s digital ID project is a go
In partnership with Share this newsletter: Lire en Français اقرأ هذا باللغة العربية Good morning If you haven’t yet, please move TC Daily to your main folder so you don’t miss any of our updates. On desktop, simply drag and drop this email from Promotions to Primary/Main, and if you’re on mobile, click on the menu button to to effect the move. Onto today’s newsletter. In today’s edition Kenya gets thumbs up for digital ID project Nigeria raises interest rates SA nabs first spam caller Bitcoin has reached $57,000. Here’s why The World Wide Web3 Opportunities Government Kenya lifts injunction to halt Maisha Namba digital ID rollout In 2018, Kenya launched Huduma Namba, a digital ID system known as the National Integrated Identity Management System (NIIMS) which cost KES 10 billion (over $72 million). However, the programme was discontinued by a Kenyan high court in January 2020 due to overall distrust from Kenyans as the state failed to fully explain the merits of the IDs, including privacy concerns. In Kenya’s second attempt, President William Ruto’s administration took another shot at digital IDs with the introduction of Maisha Namba in October 2023, to replace the failed Huduma Namba. The new system aimed to address the shortcomings of its predecessor and was supposed to launch in December 2023. However, its rollout was short-lived, facing another hurdle as the Kenyan high courts blocked it due to missing data protection assessments. Here’s what you need to know: Maisha Namba, which is also referred to as a Unique Personal Identifier, comes with advanced security features like iris and facial biometrics and fingerprint identification, similar to Huduma Namba. However, the new UPI aims to address previous concerns with Huduma Namba. The new Unique Personal Identifier (UPI) will act as a child’s school ID through primary and secondary education. By adulthood (18), it becomes their national ID, further integrating with essential services like health insurance, social security, driving license, and even death certificates. However, the rollout was blocked in December 2023. And now: Kenya’s high court has lifted the December injunction that halted the introduction of the new digital ID cards, and it is anticipated that the rollout will recommence. The lawsuit, originally initiated by a non-governmental organisation, Katiba Institute, has been transferred to the Constitutional Human Rights Division for further review. Nevertheless, civil society organisations have advised the government against viewing the removal of restrictions as approval to proceed with the production of Maisha Namba cards, despite reports of 60,000 Kenyans having already applied for them. Access payments with Moniepoint You don’t have to take our word for it. Give it a shot like he did Click here to experience fast and reliable personal banking with Moniepoint. Economy CBN raises interest rates The devil works hard, but Nigeria’s Central Bank is always two steps ahead. Over the past two weeks, the CBN has sent out a roaster of new updates and regulations that are proving hard to keep up with. The apex bank has implemented sweeping reforms on Bureau De Change operators, eased foreign exchange rules, and sent BDC operators into hiding. On Monday, the CBN set a $500 limit on the purchase and sales of the dollar by cash. And yesterday, in fresh moves, it resumed selling dollars to eligible Bureau De Change operators (BDCs)—N1,301 per dollar—as part of its effort to pump more dollars into the FX market after former CBN governor Godwin Emefiele banned it. Under the new guidelines, BDCs can only sell foreign currency to customers at a maximum markup of 1% on top of the price they paid the CBN. If this works, it could align the country’s official exchange rates with its black market rates. A rate hike: Yesterday, in his first interest-setting meeting since assuming office in September, Yemi Cardoso, the CBN governor, also raised the interest rate to 22.75%, four percent higher than the previous rate. This move aims to combat inflation and stabilisse the Nigerian Naira. Higher interest rates typically incentivise foreign investment and attract capital inflows, potentially leading to a stronger Naira against the dollar. Cardoso talked tough in the media briefing in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, stating that the CBN was actively working to arrest the naira’s slump. Nigeria’s inflation figures in January hit a 30-year high, rising to 29.9% and increasing the cost of living for its people. Experts, who previously predicted less than Cardosso’s increased interest rates, believe the bank is steering in the right direction to bring the naira under control with the newly announced measure. Zoom out: The latest moves by the CBN signal aggression in curbing the naira depreciation which has lost 70% of its value since President Bola Tinubu took office. Cardoso is also optimistic that the country will attract new foreign investors. This hope is evidenced in the recent movement of Nigeria’s dollar bonds, outperforming peers this month with returns of 2.6%. Regulation SA regulators nab first spam calling company Last week, we brought you news that South Africa’s Information regulator (IR) said it will begin cracking down on entities bombarding you with unwanted marketing calls. The regulator is wasting no time in dishing out punishments to offenders. The news: Yesterday, MyBroadband reported that the regulator issued its first enforcement notice to FR Ram Consulting, a training institution. FR Ram Consulting repeatedly sent marketing emails to a user who had unsubscribed from the mailing list on several occasions. In addition to breaking the IR’s latest regulation, the consulting group ran foul of other sections of the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) including: directly marketing to individuals without obtaining their consent, persistently sending unsolicited marketing emails, and failing to cease communication even after individuals opted out. Tick Tock: FR Ram is at risk of a R10 million (~520,000) fine or a 10-year imprisonment if it fails to send evidence of its compliance with the new orders to the IR within a 90-day window. The regulator is also on the hunt for more offenders. It has identified 14 new
Read More
March 2024 SRD SASSA grant payment dates
As South Africa gears up for another round of SRD SASSA grant payments in March 2024, beneficiaries can mark their calendars for the scheduled disbursement dates across various categories. Ensuring timely access to financial assistance remains a top priority for the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), particularly in light of ongoing economic challenges and the need to support vulnerable individuals and families. Children’s March 2024 SRD SASSA grant payment On Thursday, 07 March 2024, Children’s Grants will be disbursed, offering vital support to families caring for vulnerable children. This assistance plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the well-being and development of young ones across South Africa. Older person’s March 2024 SRD SASSA grant payment Beneficiaries receiving Older Person’s Grants can expect their payments to be disbursed from Tuesday, March 5, 2024. This includes any grants linked to these accounts, providing crucial support to elderly individuals across the country. Disability grants Similarly, Disability Grants will be paid from Wednesday, March 6, 2024, encompassing any grants associated with these accounts. This timely distribution aims to alleviate financial burdens faced by individuals living with disabilities and ensure their access to essential resources. Important notice on SRD SASSA 2024 grants Looking ahead, SASSA recently announced through their X social media platform that beneficiaries can anticipate increases in certain categories of grants starting from April 2024. These adjustments reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing support for vulnerable communities and addressing economic disparities. For any inquiries or assistance regarding grant payments, beneficiaries are encouraged to contact SASSA through their toll-free helpline at 0800 60 10 11 or visit the official SASSA website for updates and news. Final thoughts on SASSA grant payment It’s important to note that beneficiaries need not rush to withdraw cash on the first day of payment. Once the funds are deposited into their accounts, they will remain available until needed, providing a measure of financial stability and security.
Read More
Breaking: SRD SASSA increases grant amounts for 2024
In a move aimed at bolstering support for vulnerable persons, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced, alongside March payment dates, increases in various SASSA SRD grants effective from April 2024. The increments are set to alleviate financial burdens and enhance the quality of life for recipients across the country. Old Age, War Veterans, Disability, and Care Dependency SASSA SRD Grants 2024 Starting from April 2024, recipients of these essential grants will experience a significant increase of R90, aimed at alleviating financial burdens and enhancing their quality of life. An additional increment of R10 is scheduled for October 2024, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting its elderly, disabled, and dependent citizens. Foster Care and Child Support SASSA SRD Grants 2024 Families caring for vulnerable children will also benefit from the adjustments. The Foster Care grant will see a boost of R50, while the Child Support grant will increase by R20, effective April 2024. These increments recognise the crucial role of caregivers in nurturing and protecting children, ensuring access to essential resources for their well-being and development. Government’s Commitment to Social Welfare The decision to increase these grants reflects the government’s recognition of the challenges faced by vulnerable communities, exacerbated by economic uncertainties and the ongoing impact of the global pandemic. By providing incremental adjustments, SASSA aims to mitigate the effects of inflation and rising living costs, empowering recipients to meet their basic needs and maintain a decent standard of living. Final thoughts on SRD SASSA grants increase in 2024 In addition to the increases in 2024 grants, it’s important to note that the payment methods for SRD SASSA grants remain unchanged. Beneficiaries will continue to use their existing methods of payment without interruption. However, should any beneficiaries encounter difficulties or have inquiries regarding their payments, they are encouraged to reach out to SASSA customer service lines or visit their nearest offices for assistance.
Read MoreCardoso talks tough: Central Bank will “do what it takes”
Nigeria’s Central Bank has entered an “aggressive regulatory environment,” threatening to deal with players who don’t follow the rules, per answers from Olayemi Cardoso, the bank’s governor, in today’s monetary committee meeting. Facing FX volatility, the bank has adopted a raft of measures to bring stability and in today’s meeting, Cardoso spoke about collaborating with law enforcement agencies to enforce guidelines. He didn’t specify the guidelines law enforcement would enforce. “People will have to abide by those regulations and those that do not would face consequences for not doing so,” Cardoso said in Abuja on Tuesday afternoon. “We will do what we have to do.” Already, the bank raised the benchmark lending rate by 400 basis points to 22.75%, from 18.75%, in one swell move today, vowing to make more shocking policy moves in an attempt to resolve the country’s economic woes. The CBN also promised to generate more liquidity for the forex market. “Just today, we paid out another $400 million dollars that were so identified. In terms of the reserves, it has gone up to $34 billion,” the CBN governor said in today’s meeting, hinting that some of its recent moves—has paid off. Regulations on Binance Part of those aggressive moves involves CBN’s recent decision to prevent Nigerian users from selling USDT, on Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange. Cardoso defended this move by calling the funds transfer through Binance “illicit flows.” According to him, “$26 billion has passed through Binance Nigeria from sources and users who we cannot identify.”
Read MoreNigeria U-turns on BDC operators, sells Dollars again to tame FX volatility
Nigeria’s Central Bank will begin selling dollars to eligible Bureau De Change operators (BDCs) at N1,301 per dollar in its latest effort to improve liquidity in the FX market, three years after Godwin Emefiele first banned the sale of the greenback to those operators. The apex bank will begin those sales after proposing more stringent rules for BDC operators last week, according to a circular published on Tuesday. The CBN hopes that this move will take the pressure off the banks and help meet the demand in the retail market. “What we’re hoping to accomplish by this, frankly, is to bring some sanity to an industry that arguably no longer serves the interests of those whom it was meant to protect,” CBN governor Olayemi Cardoso said at the end of the rate-setting meeting on Tuesday. The apex bank raised the benchmark lending rate to 22.75% in the most aggressive push to contain inflation. BDCs will only be permitted to sell to end-users at a margin not exceeding 1% above the purchase rate from CBN, according to the new directive. Analysts have said the CBN aims to eliminate street trading and standardize the operations of BDC operators with technology so their volumes and activities can be monitored in real time. Under ousted CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele, the CBN banned sales of FX to BDC operators in 2021. The apex bank reversed the two-year ban in August 2023. CBN raises interest rates by 400 basis points as it moves to “aggressive regulatory environment” Last week, the bank increased the minimum capital requirements for BDC operators to N2 billion for Tier 1 license holders and N500 million for Tier 2 licence. “We hope we’ll be able to increase competition from those who are genuine,” Cardoso said. CBN’s efforts to unify the naira have failed to hit home due to the bank’s inability to meet demand. As a result, the parallel market continued to be the viable source of supply, opening up a significant arbitrage opportunity. The prevailing thinking on the government’s side is that speculators are taking advantage of the situation to inflate prices artificially. Still, many experts disagree, pointing out an absence of liquidity as the real cause of the problems. TechCabal reported on Monday that the fear of being arrested by officials of Nigeria’s anti-graft agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has driven currency traders away from street trading. Last week, Nigerian authorities blocked access to crypto companies’ websites and pegged rates on Binance, a global crypto exchange.
Read MoreCBN raises interest rates by 400 basis points as it moves to “aggressive regulatory environment”
Nigeria’s Central Bank has raised the benchmark lending rate by 400 basis points to 22.75%, from 18.75% in the most aggressive push to contain inflation. Olayemi Cardoso, the CBN governor, announced this today after the bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting that began Monday. The rate meeting, the first under Olayemi Cardoso, had been viewed by analysts as a test of the bank’s seriousness in curbing worsening inflation. At least five policy experts surveyed by TechCabal expected a 200 basis point hike today. Cardoso would be secretly hoping that rate decisions translate to the economy. A gap already exists between the central bank’s policy rate, yields on the short-dated paper it sells at auction and what is offered on government debt. Explaining the motive for the hawkish stance, Cardoso said MPC members were concerned about the persistent rise in the level of inflation and emphasized the commitment to reverse the trend. “Previous policy rate hikes have slowed the rise in inflationary pressure but not to a desirable extent,” he said. “Members concluded that inflation could pose more regulatory challenges in the near and medium term if not effectively anchored.” According to him, non-monetary factors were driving inflation. Experts told TechCabal that Nigeria’s rising inflation can’t only be solved by raising MPR. “Our current cost of living issues are being propelled by structural drivers and not by transient supply and demand issues,” Ikemesit Effiong, a partner at SBM Intelligence said. Understanding the motive for rate cuts or increases by the MPC committee would offer more insights into Cardoso plans for the economy, another analyst Kalu Aja said. It would be important to know if it’s a “unanimous decision or not,” Aja added. President Bola Tinubu’s reforms have been met with small pockets of protests across the country, with consumers lamenting that their spending power has been eroded. Inflation is at a nearly three decade high at 29.90, six months after Cardoso’s rise to head the CBN. Tinubu had appointed Cardoso—his long-term associate to man the Central Bank last September after his predecessor, Godwin Emefiele had done a poor job of controlling inflation which had attained an 18-year high mark in a space of six years. Emefiele’s time as governor was notable for expanding loans to the federal government, CBN-funded agricultural schemes, and artificially pegged exchange rates. Cardoso, who previously dismissed the impact of monetary policy meetings, is under pressure to deliver stability. Analysts would observe how impactful his reforms in stabilizing the naira will be after the Central Bank’s recent reforms on the Bureau De Change operators.
Read MoreMoonshot Conversations in Nairobi unravels AI’s potential and gaps in Africa
TechCabal, a pan-African tech publication, took Moonshot Conversations to Kenya, where panellists discussed various aspects of AI innovation and policy in Africa and the importance of representation and infrastructure. After winding up from an intense Africa Tech Summit in Nairobi, Big Cabal Media (BCM), the parent company of TechCabal, hosted Moonshot Conversations, a mini-series of its flagship Moonshot by TechCabal conference in Nairobi, Kenya. The first-ever Moonshot Conversations explored the state of artificial intelligence (AI) in Africa and the continent’s potential for AI solutions but acknowledged challenges, such as limited expertise and data scarcity in training AI. The event brought together media personalities, founders, policymakers, and technology lovers in Kenya and East Africa. The panel explored innovative ideas in AI and tech policy in Africa and was moderated by Tomiwa Aladekomo, CEO of BCM. Panellists included Nanjira Sambuli, a policy analyst and strategist, alongside Irene Mwendwa, executive director at Pollicy, and John Kamara, founder and CEO of Adanian Labs. Kicking off the discussion, Aladekomo asked, “What is the current state of AI in Africa?” To answer this, Sambuli said that innovation in Africa’s tech industry had evolved from mobile to AI and data contribution from smartphone users, “We have to figure out whether we’re talking about this as if it’s a brand new thing, or if it’s coming in as a continuum because then that helps us contextualise in one regard. In a sense, anybody who has a smartphone is innovating for AI because we are feeding data to what is coming to the end of things. We are seeing that evolve into innovation.” Mwendwa and Kamara highlighted the complex innovation landscape and challenges surrounding AI in Africa. The panellists rallied for progress beyond the current focus on financial solutions in the tech industry. They also pushed for diverse offerings from all players for a more inclusive and representative ecosystem. Still, AI innovation in Africa faces several hurdles. The extra focus on generative AI without proper assessment of resources and data creates limitations. Besides the political complexities surrounding digital health and AI, the lack of inclusivity in conversations and decision-making poses significant challenges. Kamara noted by saying, “We talk about AI and innovation. And it sounds like technology is where it’s at. But ultimately, everything ends up being one political, and then human. And so you got to pull things back there. But, again, because I’d love for this to be more solution-oriented.” To this point, it was clear that while Africa embraces AI, challenges remain. Limited local expertise, scarce data, and ethical concerns create roadblocks. More reliable infrastructure and clear regulations further hinder progress. However, Africa’s unique challenges present an opportunity to leapfrog other regions by developing customised AI solutions for pressing issues like agriculture, healthcare, and education. The session also acknowledged the inadequate infrastructure and public investment in science and technology which hinders progress. Robust regulation and policy frameworks tailored to the African context are essential for responsible and ethical AI adoption. Per Mwendwa, “There should be some national infrastructure. And the history of tech shows us that public investment has been a big determinant of any takeoff.” Despite the challenges, opportunities abound. Africa has the potential to become a leader in public interest technologies, particularly AI, by establishing strong public procurement mechanisms. Empowering women in the field and bridging the gender gap in tech is crucial for inclusive development. Moonshot Conversations aims to be more pan-African as it seeks to drive key dialogue around innovation and provide solutions to existing technology-based challenges. You can watch a round-up of the event here.
Read More
👨🏿🚀TechCabal Daily – God wins with Mavin Records
In partnership with Share this newsletter: Lire en Français اقرأ هذا باللغة العربية Good morning There’s been a lot about AI in the news with Google’s Gemini spurring out innacurate Nazi content all through last week. In Africa, though, the conversation has always been centred around how the legislations are always ten steps behind the tech. But last year, Nigeria’s tech minister announced plans for an AI strategy that made many, as they say, change mouth. Critics argued that there are more pressing problems in the country from an ailing currency to ever-rising inflation and the growing scarcity of Five Alive Berry Blast. We, however, argue differently. In this article, my colleagues Faith and Ganiu talk about why Bosun Tijani’s AI plan is more than just a lofty ambition. In today’s edition UMG acquires majority stake in Mavin Records Paramount+ partners with Showmax Pontashego’s $25,000 debt OJireh Prime becomes Pryme The World Wide Web3 Opportunities Acquisitions Universal Music Group acquires majority stake in Mavin Records In 2012, long after the dispute between Nigeria’s record producer/musician Don Jazzy and D’banj led to the closure of their record label, Mo’ Hits Records, Don Jazzy branched out and his own record label, Mavin Records. The record label has grown to become one of the most renowned music labels in Africa housing some of Nigeria’s finest A-list artists including Tiwa Savage, Rema, and Grammy-nominated Arya Starr. Wande Coal, Reekado Banks and Iyanya were all formerly signed to the label. The music group has also recorded tremendous success with its entire roaster of artists since it began. For example, Rema’s big hit “Calm Down”—which peaked at No. 3 on the Hot 100 and remains in the top 10 on the chart after 56 weeks, recorded a staggering one billion streams on Spotify. Similarly, Mavin said its artists had achieved 6 billion in streams from their group releases. With an average payout of $0.003 to $0.005 per stream, Mavin earned an estimated $18 million to $30 million from streaming alone. With a lot of success behind its back and rising to become one of the most renowned record labels in Africa. Mavin has no intention to calm down. To fund its artist dreams, the entertainment group has had to rely on investors’ funds, raising $11 million since its launch. In October last year, the group said it was looking to be acquired. Universal Music Group and HYBE were touted as potential buyers at the time. The news: Yesterday, Universal Music Group (UMG), the largest record label in the world with $10 billion in revenue per year, acquired a majority stake in Mavin. While the terms of the deal are undisclosed, Billboard previously estimated the sales price to be around $125 million—$200 million. The acquisition by Universal means an exit for Mavin’s former investors Kupanda Capital and TPG Growth, which invested about $5 million in 2019. Don Jazzy and Tega Oghenejobo will remain at the helm with Kupanda Capital serving as strategic advisors. Mavin, which was estimated to be worth $25 million in 2019, reportedly generates more than $500,000 annually while its frontline catalogue generates over a million dollars in revenue. Mavin also makes an estimated $2 million from live events annually. The road ahead: The move could also lead to a complete acquisition by UMG which, in 2012, completed its acquisition of British multinational label EMI Records for $1.2 billion. Presently, UMG is estimated to control about 31% of the world’s music records and has acquired over fifteen companies globally across the past ten years. Access payments with Moniepoint You don’t have to take our word for it. Give it a shot like he did Click here to experience fast and reliable personal banking with Moniepoint. Streaming Paramount+ lands in Africa via MultiChoice deal Despite a financial dip of $50 million for April to September 2023—the first half of its fiscal year—and a battled takeover bid from French giant Canal+, MultiChoice has shown no signs of slowing down. In November 2023, its streaming platform, Showmax, claimed the top spot in subscriber numbers, reaching 1.8 million subscribers, surpassing competitors like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. This momentum continues with a game-changing deal: the African entertainment company has signed a licensing deal with US entertainment company, Paramount, which will see Paramount’s streaming platform—Paramount+—enter the African market. What’s in it for both companies? The deal will see a dedicated “Paramount+ branded destination” feature within the MultiChoice platform, with access to an audience of 22 million MultiChoice subscribers across 16 African countries. It also means Paramount+ won’t have to go through the lengthy licensing process foreign companies are subject to. MultiChoice viewers, on the other hand, will gain access to a wealth of content through this collaboration. They can expect programming from CBS, Paramount+ Originals, SHOWTIME, and Paramount Pictures, all housed within the dedicated “Paramount+ branded destination.” DStv subscribers will find a dedicated Paramount+ section within the DStv app, as well as a tile available within the Showmax app. This aligns with Paramount’s global strategy, which includes making Paramount+ available through “bundled partnerships” in key markets and “branded destinations” in local markets like Africa.MultiChoice, also continues its efforts to consolidate its position as the leading gateway to streaming services in Africa, following a successful relaunch of Showmax 2.0 in February 2024. E-commerce Ponatshego’s shutdown leaves a $25,000 debt trail Botswana’s e-commerce startup, Ponatshego, has left a revelation of unfulfilled promises since its shutdown a year ago. The startup, which offered a platform for consumers to order products online, ceased operations a year ago due to financial challenges. However, it left a debt of 350,000 pulas ($25,000) in unpaid refunds to customers whose goods were never delivered. Empty carts, empty promises: At one point, Motshidisi Ngaiti, one of the co-founders of Ponatshego, promised one customer that he would sell his car to settle the debts. One customer paid the startup 13,000 pulas (~$940) for a laptop but has only received a partial refund of 4,000 pulas (~$290). Another paid 7,000
Read More