logo
PROFILE: Who is Bassim Haidar?

PROFILE: Who is Bassim Haidar?

Bassim Haidar is a distinguished entrepreneur and global business leader, renowned for founding and leading multi-sector enterprises across fintech, telecoms, technology, logistics, energy, agritech and hospitality.
His outstanding contributions to Africa and the UK have been recognised by the South African government, which recently appointed him as both the Honorary Consul for South Africa to the UK and as a representative on the B20, the official business engagement group of the G20, during
South Africa's chairmanship in 2025.
With operations generating over $1.6 billion in revenue across Africa and the Middle East, Haidar has driven growth, financial inclusion, and significant inward investment into the region.
He spearheaded the development of Africa's first AI-driven credit scoring engine, enabling nearly a billion unbanked individuals to access financial services and economic opportunities. His visionary leadership continues to create transformative solutions for emerging markets
Through Knuru Capital, his fund and family office, Haidar has made significant investments in the region, supporting fast-growth companies that are driving innovation and economic development. Knuru's impact reflects his commitment to nurturing businesses with the potential to transform industries and create sustainable growth.
Expanding his reach, Haidar has recently entered the hospitality sector, acquiring an unfinished hotel complex in the Turks and Caicos Islands, among other ventures. This strategic move highlights his ability to diversify and unlock potential in emerging industries.
Through innovative investments and his commitment to excellence, Haidar continues to leave a significant mark across a range of sectors globally
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

SA's biggest beef producer hit by foot-and-mouth disease
SA's biggest beef producer hit by foot-and-mouth disease

eNCA

time3 hours ago

  • eNCA

SA's biggest beef producer hit by foot-and-mouth disease

HIEDELBERG, GAUTENG - A case of Foot and Mouth Disease has been confirmed at the Karan Beef facility in Heidelberg. As a precautionary measure, the facility was placed under pre-emptive quarantine last Friday. Outbreaks have spread to three provinces after the disease was reported on an Mpumalanga farm last month. In March, an urgent vaccination campaign was launched in northern KwaZulu-Natal to curb this disease. Amajuba District confirmed an outbreak after positive cases were detected in Newcastle. China has suspended its South African beef imports sparking worry about the impact on farmers and their livelihoods. Senior Feedlot Veterinarian at Karan Beef, DR. Dirk Verwoerd said over 2000 of their cattle are showing signs of being infected. He says no slaughtering or movement of cattle will take place until they have dealt with the case.

Worker killed at Harmony's Joel mine in the Free State
Worker killed at Harmony's Joel mine in the Free State

TimesLIVE

time3 hours ago

  • TimesLIVE

Worker killed at Harmony's Joel mine in the Free State

A worker was killed in a fall of ground accident at Harmony Gold's Joel mine in Free State on Wednesday. The company said all relevant authorities, family members and colleagues had been informed. It said it was devastated by another loss of life. 'Our safety strategy and culture include both systemic and humanistic factors and controls. These controls are designed to avoid incidents, protect our employees and have to be adhered to at all times. No working area will be accessed unless it has been declared safe,' said Beyers Nel, Harmony CEO. The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) said this was the 11th fatality at Harmony this year, bringing the total fatalities in the South African mining industry to 25. 'Eleven fatalities point directly to the company's failure to provide conditions that are safe for the operation to take place,' Amcu said. The union added that if Harmony dodges analysing organisational failures and blames the deaths on the behaviour of employees, it is likely they will experience more injuries and disasters. Harmony said Thursday has been declared a day of safety across all Harmony's South African operations to engage with the company's employees and stakeholders and to reflect on the company's safety practices at each of its mines. 'Our day of safety is not simply a pause, it is a call to action,' said Nel.

Unlocking tourism potential between China and South Africa
Unlocking tourism potential between China and South Africa

IOL News

time4 hours ago

  • IOL News

Unlocking tourism potential between China and South Africa

Unlocking tourism potential between China and South Africa For South Africans considering travel to China, the consulate has specific travel guidelines aimed at ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. This week, the Daily News had the opportunity to engage directly with the Chinese Consul General in Durban, Li Zhigong, who showcased the vast opportunities for tourism and travel between China and South Africa. With a shared vision of fostering stronger bilateral ties, the consul general outlined strategic initiatives aimed at not just facilitating travel but also enriching the cultural exchange between the two nations. One of the primary focuses of the Consulate General is to promote high-level exchanges between sister cities and provinces. "These efforts help spark greater interest in China among local communities and foster closer people-to-people ties," Li explained. Efforts include enhanced communication and collaboration on tourism initiatives, underpinned by a commitment to mutual understanding and friendship. In a notable development this year, the consulate has initiated an express visa option, designed to streamline the application process for Chinese tourists wishing to visit South Africa. "The express visa can be processed within three to four working days with simple and user-friendly requirements," Li said. This is a significant improvement, especially when the visa process has previously been a major hurdle for potential visitors. For South African tourism operators eager to attract Chinese visitors, Li offered several crucial recommendations. He urged operators to tailor their offerings to better meet the preferences of Chinese visitors. "This includes providing services in Chinese, accepting payment methods like UnionPay and Alipay, and promoting destinations through Chinese social media platforms," he said. Cultural sensitivity and a welcoming atmosphere are also vital in creating memorable travel experiences for Chinese tourists. The consul general acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced in attracting more tourists due to the complexities surrounding the visa application process. "We are actively engaging with the South African Department of Home Affairs, as obtaining a South African visa remains time-consuming and difficult for Chinese citizens," Li said, As for South Africans considering travel to China, the consulate has specific travel guidelines aimed at ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. According to Li, visitors are encouraged to meticulously plan their itineraries and familiarise themselves with essential apps such as WeChat, Alipay, and translation tools, as these are critical for navigating the vast cultural landscape. He added that key destinations such as Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai are highly recommended and travellers are advised to respect local customs and be aware of the legal framework to ensure a harmonious visit. "We truly hope more South Africans will visit China to see and experience more for themselves. South Africa is not only a partner but also a brother to China, and we sincerely wish for our people to grow closer and develop deeper mutual understanding," said Li. *This is Part 4 of a series of exclusive interviews that the Chinese Consul General in Durban, Li Zhigong, granted the Daily News' editor, Ayanda Mdluli.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store