Clickatell Scoops Prestigious Nigerian ICT Award

From left to right: Saheed Oladapo, Accounting Administrator at Clickatell; Vivian Egbe, Commercial Manager at Clickatell; Adunni Ogunleke, Technical Account Manager at Clickatell; Temitope Omoniyi, Director Partnership at Clickatell; Samson Isa, Regional Managing Director : West Africa at Clickatell (Source: Clickatel)

PRESS RELEASE

Clickatell Scoops Prestigious Nigerian ICT Award

Clickatell recognized for its innovation and contribution to growth in the Nigerian ICT industry at glittering BoICT awards ceremony

LAGOS, Nigeria, May 30, 2022/ -- Clickatell (https://bit.ly/38XVxeL), a CPaaS innovator and Chat Commerce leader, was acknowledged by Nigeria Communications Week as their Communications Solutions Provider of the Year, as part of their 13th Beacon of ICT (BoICT) Awards, held on 28 May at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos Nigeria.

Nigeria Communications Week (https://bit.ly/3wWOdcq), a prominent local technology publication, held its annual awards, which recognizes top performers in Nigeria's ICT sector, in Lagos on the weekend. Clickatell was awarded the winner in the category Communications Solutions Provider of the Year for its Chat Commerce solution following a voting process that included business leaders, readers, as well as independent quality experts.

In a letter announcing the achievement, Ken Nwogbo (https://bit.ly/3lWkRVi), Editor In-Chief of Nigeria Communications Week said: “This is a testament to your talents, innovations, contributions and commitments to the growth of the ICT industry, and we are happy that Nigerians have recognized your hard work, sincerity and dedication towards the development of the ICT industry.”

Speaking after the awards ceremony and annual BoICT lecture delivered by Dr. Oluseyi Akindeinde (https://bit.ly/3lWHRU5), Co-Founder and Chief Technical Officer of Digital Encode Limited, Clickatell’s Samson Isa (https://bit.ly/3aiNQA3), Regional Managing Director: West Africa, gave context to the achievement and what it means for the company.

“The annual BoICT event is widely regarded as the most prestigious in the ICT industry in Nigeria, and we are honored to be here tonight. Our team is also especially proud of being recognized for this award given the caliber of entrants this year. Having our Chat Commerce solution recognized for the difference it can make to businesses in Nigeria is particularly pleasing,” said Isa. “Clickatell has built its legacy based on its obsession with helping businesses deliver customer service that impacts their bottom line and improves the lives of their customers. We see Chat Commerce as playing a key part in driving financial inclusion for Nigerians and helping them access the services they are looking for quickly, simply and on the platforms they prefer to use.” 

Isa’s comments are supported by compelling data (https://bit.ly/3x0CcTA). In the third quarter of 2021, WhatsApp was the most popular social media platform in Nigeria with 92% of internet users making use of the chat platform. In addition, 71% of the country’s internet users make use of Meta’s chat app, Facebook Messenger. These numbers prove that chat is one of the most effective ways for businesses to reach a significant portion of the local population.

Clickatell’s Chat Commerce offering has already been deployed by many respected brands including Fidelity Bank, Union Bank, EcoBank and Stanbic Bank.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Clickatell.

 

Media Contacts:

Clickatell

Nadia Louw

nadia.louw@clickatell.com

+27 (21) 910 7700

Clickatell

Andrea Mahoney

andrea.mahoney@clickatell.com

415-846-1543

About Clickatell:

Clickatell is the global Chat Commerce leader powering businesses to connect, interact, and transact with consumers anytime, anywhere in chat. The low / no-code, feature-rich Chat Commerce Platform sits at the intersection of communications (CPaaS, CCaaS) and commerce (digital payments). Clickatell serves over 10,000 customers, many of which are Fortune 500 companies and leading global brands activating their own digital commerce transformations. Clickatell is headquartered in Silicon Valley, CA, and has offices in Canada, South Africa and Nigeria. Learn more at www.Clickatell.com.

SOURCE

Clickatell

Small Businesses in Nigeria Are Still in Danger, Facing Remote Desktop Protocol Attacks in 2022

PRESS RELEASE

Small Businesses in Nigeria Are Still in Danger, Facing an 89% Increase in Remote Desktop Protocol Attacks in 2022

In 2022, the number of Trojan-PSW (Password Stealing Ware) detections in Nigeria more than doubled when compared to the same period in 2021

LAGOS, Nigeria, May 30, 2022/ -- When a small business owner is faced with the responsibilities of production economics, financial reports and marketing all at the same time, cybersecurity can often appear complicated and, at times, unnecessary. However, this disregard for IT security is being exploited by cybercriminals. Kaspersky (www.Kaspersky.co.za) researchers assessed the dynamics of attacks on small and medium-sized businesses between January and April 2022 and the same period in 2021, to identify which threats pose an increasing danger to entrepreneurs.

In 2022, the number of Trojan-PSW (Password Stealing Ware) detections in Nigeria more than doubled when compared to the same period in 2021 - 2654 detections in 2022 compared to 1076 in 2021. Trojan-PSW is a malware that steals passwords, along with other account information, which then allows attackers to gain access to the corporate network and steal sensitive information.

Another popular attack tool used on small businesses is Internet attacks, specifically, web pages with redirects to exploits, sites containing exploits and other malicious programs, botnet C&C centers, etc. While the number of these attacks decreased in the first four months of 2022 in Nigeria (56 836 infections in 2022 compared to 99 146 infections in 2021), Internet attacks are still a concern and need to be protected against.

With the shift towards remote working, many companies have introduced the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), a technology that enables computers on the same corporate network to be linked together and accessed remotely, even when the employees are at home. The number of attacks on RDP has increased significantly in Nigeria, by 89%. In the first four months of 2021, there were 161 000 RDP attacks detected and blocked by Kaspersky in the country. For the same period in 2022 the number has risen to 303 500 attacks.

Having a special security solution enables attack visualisation and provides IT administrators with a convenient tool for incident analysis. The faster they can analyse where and how a leak occurred, the better they will be able to solve any negative consequences. The new edition of Kaspersky Endpoint Security Cloud, dubbed Kaspersky Endpoint Security Cloud Pro (https://bit.ly/3NHNAZP), contains advanced new capabilities, including automated response options and an extended set of security controls in a single solution. The Pro version also includes built-in training for IT workers seeking to boost their cybersecurity skills and make the most out of their specialised security products.

Even small businesses with limited IT resources still need to protect all their working devices, including computers and mobile phones, from cyberthreats. The updated Kaspersky Small Office Security (https://bit.ly/3t4dH5i) is a key tool for startups, small online-stores and local businesses to keep all of their work devices protected, safely transfer any valuable business-related files and avoid falling victim to ransomware.

“With the shift to remote working and the introduction of numerous advanced technologies in the daily operations of even small companies, security measures need to evolve to support these sophisticated setups. Cybercriminals are already way ahead of the curve, so much so that virtually every organisation will experience a breach attempt at some point. For small companies today, it's not a matter of whether a cybersecurity incident will happen but when. Having trained staff and an educated IT-specialist is no longer a luxury but a must-have part of your business development,” comments Denis Parinov, security researcher at Kaspersky.

To protect your business, Kaspersky recommends:

•Providing your staff with basic cybersecurity hygiene training (https://bit.ly/3N2SdxR) as many targeted attacks start with phishing or other social engineering techniques.

• Using a protection solution for endpoints and mail servers with anti-phishing capabilities to decrease the chance of infection through phishing emails.

• Taking key data protection measures. Always safeguard corporate data and devices, including by using password protection, encrypting work devices and ensuring data is backed up.

• Keeping work devices physically safe – do not leave them unattended in public, always lock them and use strong passwords and encryption software.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kaspersky.

For further information please contact:
Nicole Allman | INK&Co. (www.InkAndCo.co.za)
Cell: +27 83 251 2769
nicole@inkandco.co.za

Social Media:
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3wZnMS7
Twitter: https://bit.ly/3M0M4kl
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3Mdr1vb
Instagram: https://bit.ly/3t40I3N
Blog: https://bit.ly/3N1bIXz

About Kaspersky:

Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company founded in 1997. Kaspersky’s deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into innovative security solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company’s comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection and a number of specialized security solutions and services to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. Over 400 million users are protected by Kaspersky technologies and we help 240,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them. Learn more at www.Kaspersky.co.za.  

SOURCE

Kaspersky

"King of Thieves" of Nollywood and the Myth of Second Largest Film Industry in the World

"King of Thieves", the current highest grossing Nigerian movie has not made up to US$1m in 7 weeks of showing in all the cinemas by the largest cinema chain in Nigeria and West Africa.

The current box office report from the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) shows that #Nollywood is not among the top 10 biggest film industries in the world in box office revenues.
The fictitious stats of UNESCO  on Nollywood must have been made up by those who failed to verify the current reports on the Nigerian film industry. They simply made the assumptions from their  laptops in Geneva and New York City and cannot even locate Asaba on the map of Africa. By the way,  Asaba presently produces more movies than Lagos and other cities in Nigeria. An actor can play major roles in ten different movies within one month in Asaba in Delta State. I doubt if any of the foreign news reporters and writers on Nollywood has been to Asaba. Most of their reports have been written in the comfort of the cozy rooms of the big hotels in Lagos and Abuja.
Now you can see why the so called "booming" second largest film industry in the world is full of hungry actors and directors who are still hustling to make ends meet.
Let us pray.

- By EKENYERENGOZI Michael Chima,
Publisher/Editor, NOLLYWOOD MIRROR® Series, Lagos, Nigeria.

#film #nigeria #lagos #africa #business #movies #news
#filmindustry #filmmakers #boxoffice #Asaba #unesco #report #geneva #newyorkcity

"Triangle of Sadness" Wins the Palme d'Or of 75th Annual Cannes Film Festival

The 75th annual Cannes Film Festival of France ended Saturday night with all the glitz and razzmatazz of the most prestigious international film festival in the world.

Swedish filmmaker Ruben Östlund  won the coveted Palme d'Or at the 75th annual Cannes Film for his  satirical drama, "Triangle of Sadness".

Östlund won the Palme d'Or at Cannes in 2017 with "The Square".

List of All the Winners

Palme d’Or: “Triangle of Sadness” by Ruben Östlund

Grand Prix: “Close” by Lukas Dhont and “Stars at Noon” by Claire Denis

Special Prize for Cannes’ 75th anniversary: Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardennes, “Tori and Lokita”

Jury Prize: “Eo” and “Le Otto Montagne”

Best Actress: Zar Amir Ebrahimi, “Holy Spider”

Best Actor: Song Kang Ho, “Broker”

Best Director: Park Chan-wook, “Decision to Leave”

Best Screenplay: “Boy from Heaven”

Camera d’Or: “War Pony,” directed by Gina Gammell and Riley Keough

Short Film Palme d’Or: “The Water Murmurs”

2022 IsDB Group Annual Meetings to Convene in Sharm El-Sheikh from June 1- 4

 

2022 IsDB Group Annual Meetings to Convene in Sharm El-Sheikh  
1-4 June

 

Cairo, Egypt, 28^th of May 2022 - The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group affiliated entities are to hold their 2022 Annual Meetings in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, from 1-4 June 2022, under the theme of: “Beyond Recovery: Resilience and Sustainability.” These meetings come under the umbrella of “The 47^th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Islamic Development Bank”.

Mr. Ayman Amin Sejiny, CEO of the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD).

Mr. Oussama Abdul Rahman Kaissi, Chief Executive Officer of The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).

Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol, CEO of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).

On the occasion, H.E. Dr. Hala El Said, Egypt's Minister of Planning and Economic Development and IsDB Governor for the country, has underlined the importance of the strategic partnership between the Arab Republic of Egypt and the IsDB Group and its entities in a way that all relevant stakeholders achieve development and economic growth.

She noted that IsDB’s Group’s private sector development arm -  the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) - plays a leading role in its mandate through direct financing operations, offering asset management, encouraging cross border investments, developing Islamic capital markets, and providing financial advisory services.

She also expressed her keenness to facilitate the cooperation between the Bank and the Sovereign Fund of Egypt with the aim of achieving the country's development goals, thus creating wealth for future generations.

Minister El Said pointed out that IsDB Group’s investment insurance arm -  the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) - plays an important role in supporting Egyptian investors and exporters. It amplifies the entity’s activities and services in Egypt while setting up a lasting mechanism for the promotion process, to attract incoming foreign investments and provide opportunities for Egyptian exports to enter foreign markets. ICIEC has so far provided relevant insurance coverage for US$7.35 billion worth of businesses in Egypt, including covering operations related to imports and exports, credit services on exports and securing foreign investments, making Egypt among the first ten countries that benefit from ICIEC’s insurance services.

H.E. Minister El Said also praised IsDB Group’s international trade finance arm – the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) -  for integrating its efforts with Egypt’s initiatives that support and empower women economically. Moreover, she underscored ITFC’s cooperation with the Ministry of Trade and Industry in preparing a proposal aimed at supporting and developing the capabilities of women working in the field of traditional handicrafts, as well as increasing their ability to export abroad. This is all thanks to ITFC’s foreign trade and institutional support, in addition to the constructive cooperation in Egypt’s second annual program within the Arab-African Trade Bridges Program (AATB), which is managed by ITFC, through organizing a number of exhibitions in Africa within the framework of facilitating Egyptian exports to African markets and in line with Egypt’s strategy in the same field.

 The IsDB Group 2022 Annual Meetings in Sharm El Sheikh come in response to an invitation from the Arab Republic of Egypt, with an aim to enhance cooperation together and consolidate economic relations amongst IsDB Group member countries. Representatives from international and regional financial institutions, Islamic banks, national development finance institutions, business associations, and consultants from member countries are attending the activities preceding the meetings.

The meetings mainly comprise: “the 29^th Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC)”, “the 22^nd General Assembly of the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD)”, and “the 17^th Meeting of the Board of Governors of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC)”.

Mr. Oussama Abdul Rahman Kaissi, Chief Executive Officer of The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC), stressed that the corporation aims to enhance commercial transactions in its member countries and facilitate the flow of foreign direct investments to them.

He added: “In order to achieve its objectives, ICIEC provides credit solutions to cover political and commercial risks, in addition to insurance and reinsurance solutions that enhance credit, in accordance with the provisions of Islamic Sharia.”

Mr. Kaissi also referred to ICIEC’s solid relations with Egypt, underpinning the readiness of the Corporation to support the Egyptian economy, in line with Egypt Vision 2030 and its endeavors to achieve sustainable development goals.

For his part, Mr. Ayman Amin Sejiny, CEO of the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD), stated that the Corporation plays a vital, complementary role in implementing IsDB and the international financial institutions’ activities that take place within the member countries, pointing out that Egypt has been acquiring a long history and an extended relationship with the Bank and its affiliated institutions since 1974, which has resulted in a Group cooperation portfolio of more than US$16 billion.

Additionally, he clarified that the corporation attaches primary importance to working on establishing, expanding, and modernizing the private sector through financing projects of a myriad of companies, along with other Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), and those projects get evaluated as per their contribution to the economic development; via creating job opportunities and thus facilitating the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Mr. Sejiny concluded: “ICD also provides advisory services to governments and private sector institutions, abiding by certain policies that raise the efficiency of operations and develop capital markets with the adoption of best management practices. ICD also works to establish and strengthen partnerships, with the aim of establishing joint funding, as we are keen on applying Fintech to ensure financial inclusion.”

On the occasion, Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol, CEO of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC), stated: “ITFC is a strategic partner for development in Egypt and will continue to provide integrated commercial solutions that meet the needs of the Arabic Republic of Egypt in vital sectors.”

A number of significant events, including the Business Forum for the Private Sector and a number of major events related to the preparation of the 27th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP27), to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change slated for November 2022, the green economy, achieving sustainable growth and other international issues, will also be taking place on the sidelines of the IsDB Group 2022 Annual Meetings.

-Ends-

For more details Contact:

Mohamed Rashad

Media Relation Director,

Email:

Mohamed.Rashad@influence-me.com

Cell: (+2) 01228951929.

 

 

 

 

HAPPY CHILDREN'S DAY!

#Childrensday #children

#Nigeria #thankyou #opportunity #education #digital #love #future #health #safety #network #school

HAPPY CHILDREN'S DAY!
Children are my best true friends and that is why my life is focused on doing my best for them to secure the future of our children.
The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of my company, International Digital Post Network Limited is focused on the education and welfare of the millions of underprivileged girls out of school in Nigeria.

Let us pray for the health, safety and well-being of our  children.

O, Lord JESUS Christ,
We pray for a heart that loves you.
Give us the strength to love others more than we love ourselves.
We thank you for this day.
We thank you for another opportunity.
Amen.

Lord,
I ask that you would direct our mind to know, investigate and seek the truth
and to understand the difference between wise and foolish choices.
Make us prosperous and victorious triumphant overcomers in the world.
In the mighty name of our MESSIAH JESUS Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever
AMEN.

NOLLYWOOD: How Can A So Called Booming Film Industry Be Full of Hungry Actors and Directors?

NOLLYWOOD: How Can A So Called Booming Film Industry Be Full of Hungry Actors and Directors?

Nollywood makes news headlines as a booming film industry, the second largest in the world after the Bollywood of India in the production of movies estimated to be worth over US$250 million annually which is less than the total budget of Avatar ($280 million), Tangled ($260 million), Spider-Man 3 ($258 million) or Pirates of the Caribbean sequels ($300 million).
See "Nollywood: The Nigerian Film Industry by Harvard Kennedy School on http://www.isc.hbs.edu/pdf/Student_Projects/Nigeria_Film_2008.pdf, which every literate person in Nigeria and others in the world should read

The realities in Nollywood are different from the booming headlines, because majority of the actors and directors are living in poverty from Lagos to Asaba.

Majority of the filmmakers are not well paid for their movies by the leading multinational cable TV network, MultiChoice Nigeria of the MultiChoice Group and many of them just wanted to have their movies on the DStv Channels of MultiChoice such as the Africa Magic for the publicity. Then only few of them smiled to the bank from the box office revenues of their movies distributed and exhibited by local film distributors and cinemas. The cinemas have not been making enough for a so called booming film industry without a film market. The highest grossing Nollywood movie from the box office in Nigeria, Funke Akindele- Bello's "Ọmọ́ Ghetto, The Saga" made less than N700 million which is not even up to the monthly incomes of the co-CEOs of Netflix, Reed Hastings who  earns more than $40.8 million annually and Ted Sarandos who  earns more than $38.2 million annually.
So, Nollywood is still far from the news headlines of a booming film industry.

#nollywood #bollywood #ceos #boxoffice #income #revenue
#film #netflix #filmmakers #africa #nigeria #network #india #school #bank #filmmarket #distribution #cinemas #actors #directors #spiderman #avatar #harvard #movies #dstv #multichoice #asaba #budget #hastings #sarandos #news #africamagic #piratesofthecaribbean

Moulin Rouge Rooftop Bar and Lounge Opens for Business

Moulin Rouge Rooftop  Bar and Lounge Opens for Business 

- By Ingram Osigwe 

A paradigm shift in relaxation and entertainment will on Saturday, 28th May 2022, set sail in Lagos as Moulin Rouge  Rooftop Bar and Lounge opens for business.

Situated at 33A Rafiu Babatunde Tinubu Road, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos, Lounge is a classy home for Quality Alcoholics, Wines, Champagnes, Cognac, Whiskey, Tequila and Vodka from the best wineries, distilleries and cognac regions of the world.

Moulin Rouge Rooftop Bar and Lounge is a new vista in winery and pleasure. With the exhilarating ambience it promises to offer visitors and customers,there is no doubt that connoisseurs in Amuwo and the environment are looking forward to the grand opening.

Apart from good ambience, the Lounge also boasts of watertight security and friendly  smart looking bartenders.

The Lounge's location makes it  accessible to visitors coming into Amuwo Odofin from other parts of Lagos.

For example, from Apple junction beside SUNFIT, it is easily accessible to Festac, Amuwo, Apapa, Okota and Kirikiri residents.

The grand opening ceremony will feature DJ Guchi. Hypeninja will also be part of the opening ceremony.

***

Ingram Osigwe a wine Aficionado writes from Lagos.

Africa: Epic Historical Drama Series, Shaka Ilembe, is Set for Release in 2023

PRESS RELEASE

Africa: Epic Historical Drama Series, Shaka Ilembe, is Set for Release in 2023

Shaka Ilembe tells the story of the making of the iconic African king, with iterations from his early childhood through to adulthood

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, May 25, 2022/ -- MultiChoice (www.MultiChoice.com) and Bomb Productions are proud to announce that production on the epic drama series, Shaka Ilembe, has commenced and is currently filming in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, providing jobs for over 8 000 people.

Set in the 1700s, Shaka Ilembe tells the story of the making of the iconic African king, with iterations from his early childhood through to adulthood. The two key actors playing Shaka are the incredibly talented Lemongang Tsipa (adult king) and newcomer Ntando Zondi (boy king). The star-studded cast is headlined by Amazon’s Coming 2 America’s breakout star, Nomzamo Mbatha, who plays Queen Nandi, the revered mother of Shaka, with Thembinkosi Mthembu starring as King Dingiswayo and Wiseman Mncube in the role of King Zwide. Mbatha will also executive produce the series.

“Being able to bring this important story to the screen with such stellar talent speaks to the heart of MultiChoice’s ongoing commitment and investment in our local entertainment industry. We are committed to telling great African stories and this is a proudly African series told through the lens of Africans for the very first time,” said Yolisa Phahle, CEO of General Entertainment & Connected Video at MultiChoice.

“I am honoured to bring the giant that is Queen Nandi to life. History will remember those who informed its people of where we come from, to better understand who we are. I am fortunate to be part of a project that is much bigger than ourselves and to tell this story in our own language. Impi iyeza!” expressed Mbatha.

“It is a cast with deep talent,” added Angus Gibson, Creative Director at Bomb Productions. “It is magical witnessing these performers bring life to characters we only know from the history books. When the cast arrive on set, fully dressed in wardrobe and hair from the period, I am blown away.”

The production has been six years in the making, consulting historians, academics and family descendants, including the late King Goodwill Zwelithini and Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi. “This is our appointment with history; we want to capture the authenticity and deepen the understanding of this era,” explained Nhlanhla Mtaka, an executive and cultural advisor.

Striking a balance between historical authenticity and drama is crucial to the plot. “We want people to learn about our history and culture, but we also want to keep viewers glued in anticipation. This drama seeks to uncover nuggets of history, but creates narrative in the gaps by putting known characters alongside fictional characters in order to keep the story moving,” Phahle continued.

MultiChoice is the biggest funder of local content in Africa – producing content in local languages with local actors, and telling stories that resonate culturally. This production comes off the back of multiple successful co-productions such as Trackers, Reyka and most recently Recipes for Love and Murder. The group’s production quality and their ongoing partnership with international production companies allows for worldwide appeal and promotes South African talent on a global stage.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

Contact:
Elizabeth Fourie, Senior Manager: Corporate Communications
Tel:         +27 11 289 4735
Mobile: +27 83 482 5241
Elizabeth.Fourie@multichoice.co.za

About MultiChoice Group:

MultiChoice Group (MCG), which listed in the Main Board of the JSE on 27 February 2019, is one of the fastest-growing video entertainment providers globally, delivering entertainment products and services to 21.1m households across 50 countries on the African continent. Its track record of more than 35 years is reflective of a commitment to provide audiences with only the best local, sport and international content.

MCG’s strong partnerships with distributors, installers and telecommunication companies, along with its well-established payment solutions, competitive pricing and choice of viewership packages continue to secure its place in the global market, while also providing solutions unique to the African market. 

Its direct-to-home (DTH), digital terrestrial television (DTT) and over-the-top (OTT) solutions enable the business to stay relevant and aligned to changing consumer habits while capturing new markets. Content is at the very core of the business. MCG aims to deliver quality content anywhere, anytime and on any device through a comprehensive video entertainment offering at different price points. As pioneers in African video entertainment, MCG plays an important role in making information and entertainment easily accessible to Africans.

MCG aims to secure content rights cost-effectively in a manner that is reflective of the diversity of its audiences. Its substantial portfolio of content which is made available across the group’s platforms (DStv, GOtv and Showmax) includes award-winning local content (a key differentiator in its service offering), a world-class sports offering (with production capabilities) and access to international content.

MCG has superior technology capability through the security solutions that Irdeto, its technology company, brings to the group. These solutions enable MultiChoice to protect its investment, create new offerings and combat cybercrime. With more than 50 years’ expertise in software security, Irdeto’s software security solutions and cyber services protect over 6bn devices and applications for some of the world’s best brands. 

About Bomb Productions:

The Bomb Shelter is a respected leading production company based in Johannesburg South Africa. For over 21 years, Bomb has produced some of South Africa’s most iconic and ground-breaking television drama. The cult youth series, Yizo Yizo, received critical acclaim and awards around the world, and was screened at the Venice Film festival – their hit show Isibaya broke audience records and garnered awards seven years in a row, including over 30 SAFTA awards. 

The team steering Bomb are responsible for many acclaimed projects, including the Oscar-nominated Mandela, Son of Africa, Father of a Nation, as well as Granada Television’s flagship documentary series 7 Up South Africa, which was nominated for a BAFTA. They were also behind the double Sundance winner Amandla, a revolution in four-part harmony as well as the pan African hit drama Jacob’s Cross, which ran for eight seasons. Other projects include  Ayeye,  Zone 14, The Road, Isithembiso, House of Zwide and Sekali le Meokgo, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival. Lupita N’yongo starred and co-directed on Bomb’s ground-breaking series Shuga (seasons 1 and 2). 

Bomb has produced over 1 000 hours of television drama and is currently in production with the epic historical drama Shaka Ilembe.

SOURCE

MultiChoice Group

Navigating the Virtual Market in an African Context

Navigating the Virtual Market in an African Context

- By Babatunde Adekanmbi

The global impact of technology ever since its inception have brought about  positive impact though coupled with some negative effects but we can't downplay how it have facilitated developments across all sectors of the economy.

  The issue of virtual market navigation particularly in an African context is as a  result of Technological impact in our current disposition today. There is   need to  understand what virtual market entails, it is marketplace with the aid of internet connectivity where numerous companies execute economic transactions to facilitate sales enablement . The virtual market is an advanced development of the traditional way of marketing, although people are still going by the modality of running a small scale enterprise in which there is need to navigate from one geopolitical zone to another in order to increase their customer base but fortunately,  business owners and Corporate Organizations have adopted the use of  Virtual market as new marketing strategy.

It's imperative we understand the mode of operation of a virtual market for optimum performance otherwise it'll be underutilize. A  virtual marketplace is a platform where third-party sellers can transact businesses (also known as e-commerce marketplaces), such sites may feature individual traders, large-scale manufacturers of goods, or anything in between. The third party sellers are known to be the retailers, small business owners, enabling them reach out virtually to the final consumers  at a specific period of time.

The virtual market comes with is own peculiarities unlike the traditional way of marketing although with some features that would probably facilitate sales enablement and customer engagement but have some hitches that the virtual market have addressed. We definitely need to align with the developments brought up by the virtual market but there's need to understand how we can effectively navigate this New virtual market particularly in an African Context. While we can't discard the fact that there are some similar features that would possibly be pinpointed from the traditional way of marketing which was understudy and developed better to align to the standing protocols setup particularly in this era.

The Africa economy ecosystem have the capability to adopt and adapt to whatever New inventions  but business owners or enterprise should position themselves for it otherwise the opportunities that lurk in the world market might elude them 

The following tips highlighted below are adoptable in which it  will give an insight and serve as a guide on how to navigate effectively  a virtual market particularly in an African Context 

• Research your target market

Knowing and understanding the needs of your target audience is a prerequisite to enable you navigate effectively, you need to understand your target audience, you can do a demographic framework which will comprise of ,age groups,gender, location etc. Learning from existing businesses relatable to what you do will equally help out as well  This will Facilitate sales engagement, customer satisfaction and enhance visibility and viability for your products and services. This research will definitely guide your working operations,  it serve as a drive towards enabling the growth of your enterprise . It will further give a deeper insight into who your target audience are, enabling you work around their interest because their satisfaction should be prioritized while thinking of maximizing profit. 

•  Design your marketplace operations.

Marketplace operations entails working hours, payment operations, delivery time that needs to be setup and getting your customers informed. It gives your potential customers a level of confidence when transacting business with you. They are able to effectively plan their schedule whenever they choose  to patronize your brand or business. A well design marketplace operations entails the working hours,  processes, procedure for patronage that enables your customer align to the set goals and objectives. It will equally facilitate the organization of your potential team, they are able to understand the proceeding at which your enterprise would be operating. 

• Choose the right business model  

Having the right business model is a veritable tool for navigating the virtual market. It gives you a sense of responsibility and direction. It is the overall framework that keeps your business operations in Check on the Long run. Your customers will be willing to transact businesses With you because you have a model that is operational and it gives no room for compromise. Both parties key into the framework since it's available. Moreso you need to understand that the business model will equally serve as a working template for your future employees, it is an avenue for creating synergy between them, your enterprise and potential customers. A business model serves as a guide for your enterprise because it entails the dos and donts of how you intend running your enterprise. It gives an indication that processes will be duly followed and this is how an organized enterprise starting up and ready to navigate the virtual market 

• Select the right marketplace software

Having  the right software to run your enterprise is highly necessary it is equally important to to know whether you're considering the use of social media platforms, email marketing tool or website for customer engagement. It aid in swift Communication between you and your customers. The market research you have done will enable you know which platform will be suitable for the products or services being offered. The right software also reduces the number of negative feedbacks  receive from services offered because realistically the software will continually serve as an intermediary between your enterprise and your potential customers. You can equally look at the possibility of building up a software of your own as this will give you the opportunity to adopt and integrate your own strategy which other software might not featured.

• Outline the essential marketplace features.

Having an outlined feature for your marketplace is an enabler in making your potential customers in deciding to transact business with you. It should entails features that are user-friendly , that  gives an overview of what your services and products  entails. Integrating the right features will Facilitate More sales to your business or enterprise. These features also serves as an indicator in enabling your customers make quickr decision when engaging with your enterprise. They have the opportunity to navigate through the available features highlighted. These outlined essential features should  give a detailed description of your enterprise which necessarily don't have to be too ambiguous hence the need for readability.

• Choose a marketplace payment solution

Payment solutions are applications setup to facilitate payment of goods and services. It's important you make use of a payment solution that will be easy on the part of your customers, with  less Technical issues and good Internet services. Your customers may be deterred from patronizing you continuously if your payment solutions are not user friendly or easily accessible. They are numerous payment solutions available for use but it's essential to choose the one that is relatable to one's enterprise . The right marketplace payment enhances timely payment of services offered to your customers, it avoids the issue of complexity when making payment as the society have equally clamored for cashless policies.  It equally address the issue of theft..  You equally need to ensure this marketplace payment solution is efficientenough , the technical aspects must be well understood particularly to your team. 

• Assemble a great team

The need for a great team, who are ready to adhere and align to the set aim and objectives of your enterprise can't be over emphasized, the great edifice or platform you're creating can be ruin down when your team is made of wrong individuals. Team selection is a process that should be followed with due process, the responses derive while engaging with the pontential employees should at least correlate with your enterprise hope to achieve in the nearest future. 

You need to setup a team of high quality professionals, they hould be knowledgeable about the type of business you operate. The success of your business would be as a result of the attitudinal response of your team members to your customers. Their ability to understand the concept of your business enhance the growth of your business facilitate more sales enablement as your customers or clients are eager to recommend you to people in their network and society at large

• Build your marketplace platform

Build a marketplace platform that your customers can trust. This can only be achieved if your customer service is swift, reliable and readily accessible, ensuring your customer queries are attended to in an ample time. A platform that is responsive where you can resolve customer queries faster without physical visitation of the customer to your business location would also be of great help. The uniqueness of one's enterprise will be further appreciated and valued when there's a market platform your potential customers can relate with. A platform that affords them the opportunities to relay issues relatable to services rendered by your enterprise,  give them the opportunities to make their recommendations due to their user experience.

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You can reach out to the writer

Babatunde Adekanmbi

Digital Creator

Email-babatundeadekanmbi@gmail.com

WhatsApp +2348096570499 , Call+2348096570499