Latest news with #AfricaTechFestival
The Citizen
19-05-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Starlink making strides in transforming broadband access
In rural areas, where traditional broadband infrastructure is scarce, Starlink's presence may be key to bridging the divide. South African-born Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service from SpaceX is making significant strides in transforming broadband access across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). A new report from Ookla, 'Connecting Africa: The Performance and Impact of Starlink's Satellite Internet,' highlights Starlink's performance in the first quarter of 2025. With its wide coverage and increasing affordability, Starlink presents a chance to close the connectivity gap in rural areas while also appealing to urban users. Starlink performance The Ookla report examined the performance of Starlink services in SSA and compared them to terrestrial services, and assessed their impact on the broadband market. While speed varied across the continent, Starlink delivered a median download speed exceeding 40 Mbps in Q1 2025 in most countries where it's available, significantly outpacing terrestrial ISPs. In countries like Botswana, Eswatini, Rwanda, Burundi, Sierra Leone, Mozambique, and Ghana, Starlink users enjoyed median download speeds of around 75 Mbps or higher. In contrast, speeds in Nigeria, Zimbabwe, South Sudan, Kenya, and Madagascar — arguably some of Starlink's biggest markets — were below 50 Mbps, most likely because the provider faces capacity issues and halts new sign-ups. ALSO READ: Musk remark on not bringing Starlink to SA because he's not 'black' dismissed [VIDEO] African market Nevertheless, in Q1 2025, these speeds were still much more than double those of terrestrial networks in most countries. Starlink's entry into the African market has significantly increased access to fixed broadband, particularly in Nigeria and Kenya, where it has become competitive. South Africa However, the satellite internet service continues to elude South Africa. Speculation had been rife that Starlink was not yet available in South Africa due to the country's BEE regulations. However, Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) chairperson Mothibi Ramusi said that Icasa has not received a formal application from Starlink to operate in the country. '[We] indicated previously that Starlink does not hold any licence issued by the authority to provide electronic communications, electronic communications network or broadcasting services in South Africa.' Hope Last year, while Communications Minister Solly Malatsi did not elaborate on Musk's Starlink satellite service, he told The Citizen at the Africa Tech Festival in Cape Town that getting South Africa connected requires a 'mixed tech' approach. 'Whether it be fibre, through broadband connectivity, or the current debate that is everywhere else in the world about how low-orbit satellites can play a role in this space that we are in.' With President Cyril Ramaphosa jetting off for a working visit to the United States from Monday, 19 May to meet US President Donald Trump and possibly Musk, it is likely that there will be discussions about bringing Starlink to South Africa. Starlink internet service is said to be a true paradigm shift in the world of connectivity. What is Starlink? Starlink operates thousands of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites to provide high-speed internet globally. With 4.6 million customers globally, the service targets expansion in underserved markets, such as Africa, to drive its growth. Since its launch in 2019, the network has expanded to more than 7,000 satellites, covering most of the globe. Starlink's rapid expansion across Africa began with Nigeria in February 2023 and Rwanda in March 2023. The service now reaches 18 countries, with plans to add at least 10 more by the end of the year. Speed It offers a speed advantage over fixed alternatives in many African countries, potentially offering great experiences in downloading files and livestreaming. However, its performance varies significantly. Using Speedtest Intelligence data, Ookla identified three countries' tiers based on median download speeds. However, 'this analysis does not include Benin, Cape Verde, and Liberia', Ookla said. 'We will revisit these markets as Starlink's service expands and more data becomes available'. ALSO READ: Malatsi takes action to lower smart devices and phone costs in SA
Zawya
15-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG) Appoints APO Group Founder, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, to Advisory Board
APO Group ( the award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and leading press release distribution service, is pleased to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard ( has been appointed to the newly formed Advisory Board of the Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG). With its mission being to position Africa as a leader in critical minerals, CMAG ( is dedicated to advancing responsible sourcing and sustainable development of Africa's critical mineral resources, while ensuring that local economies benefit from the continent's mineral wealth. With approximately 40% of the world's essential minerals reserves estimated to be held in Sub-Saharan Africa alone, the region plays a key role in the global energy transition and advanced technologies. Pompigne-Mognard's appointment to the Advisory Board follows the announcement of a strategic partnership between APO Group and CMAG aimed at raising the global prominence of Africa's critical minerals sector. The partnership leverages APO Group's public relations and strategic communications expertise and CMAG's industry leadership. Complementing this, Pompigne-Mognard's ability to connect clients with key stakeholders from governments, private companies, and organisations of all sizes will be invaluable in showcasing Africa's role in the global essential resources supply chain and elevating the profile of Africa's critical minerals sector. Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the CMAG Advisory Board. His vast network across industries, governments, and institutions, his deep understanding of Africa's media and technology landscapes, and his extensive business experience will equip him to work alongside fellow Advisory Board members to shape positive perceptions of Africa's critical minerals sector amongst global stakeholders and audiences. A Franco-Gabonese entrepreneur named among the 100 Most Influential Africans in 2023 and 2024, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard serves on multiple high-profile advisory boards and international committees. These include the Senior Advisory Board of the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business and the Leadership Council of the Africa Tech Festival, as well as the Advisory Boards of the African Energy Chamber, World Football Summit, Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa, Sports Africa Investment Summit, EurAfrican Forum, and All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). He is also a strategic advisor to the Chief Executive Officer of the Royal African Society of the United Kingdom, a strategic advisor to the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce, and a special advisor to the President of Rugby Africa, the governing body of rugby in Africa. Nicolas' wholly-owned company, APO Group, is the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. It serves more than 300 clients, including global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, UNDP, Network International, the African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa's Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies. 'Being appointed to the Critical Minerals Africa Group Advisory Board is an immense honour. CMAG is vital in safeguarding Africa's critical minerals for future generations. In my advisory role, I look forward to supporting all initiatives as CMAG showcases Africa's critical minerals potential in a responsible and sustainable manner,' said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman of APO Group. Other members of the Advisory Board include Natznet Tesfay, Executive Director, Head of Insights and Analytics, S&P Global, and Richard Morgan, Former Head of Government Relations, Anglo-American PLC. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group. Media contact: marie@ About APO Group: Founded in 2007, APO Group ( is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally. Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including the PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa in 2024 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. APO Group's esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa's Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.
Zawya
13-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Africa Tech Festival Appoints Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder of APO Group, to Leadership Council
APO Group ( the award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and leading press release distribution service, is proud to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard ( has been appointed as a member of the Africa Tech Festival Leadership Council. The Africa Tech Festival ( is the continent's largest and most influential tech and digital connectivity conference, featuring flagship events such as AfricaCom, AfricaTech, AfricaIgnite, and the AI Summit Cape Town. The festival celebrates Africa's vibrant tech community, attracting hundreds of exhibitors, over 450 speakers, and more than 15,000 delegates annually. The Leadership Council of the Africa Tech Festival is a prestigious assembly of senior leaders from across the continent, tasked with shaping the future of this premier technology event. This select group provides strategic guidance, shares industry insights, and supports the development of the festival to ensure it remains a cornerstone of Africa's rapidly evolving tech ecosystem. In his role on the Leadership Council, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard will validate and provide feedback on the direction, themes, and features of the Africa Tech Festival, while participating in discussions to address key challenges facing the African tech industry. He will shape the event's content, experiences, and strategic direction to ensure it meets the needs of stakeholders across the continent, as well as influence the format and structure of the festival to maximize its impact and relevance. Additionally, he will engage in analyst-led discussions and working groups tackling critical industry challenges and network with major stakeholders in African tech to foster collaboration and innovation. Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Africa Tech Festival Leadership Council. His vast network across industries, governments, and institutions, combined with his deep understanding of Africa's media and technology landscapes and extensive business experience, will play a pivotal role in ensuring the event continues to drive innovation, collaboration, and growth across the continent. Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, a Franco-Gabonese entrepreneur named among the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2023 and 2024, serves on multiple high-profile advisory boards and international committees. These include the Senior Advisory Board of the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business, as well as the Advisory Boards of the African Energy Chamber, World Football Summit, Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa, Sports Africa Investment Summit, EurAfrican Forum, and All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). He is also a strategic advisor to the Chief Executive Officer of the Royal African Society of the United Kingdom, a strategic advisor to the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce, and a special advisor to the President of Rugby Africa, the governing body of rugby in Africa. Nicolas' wholly-owned company, APO Group, is the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, providing services to 300+ clients, including Nestlé, Coca Cola, TikTok, DHL, Marriott Group, Ecobank, Canon, Microsoft, Jack Ma Foundation, African Development Bank, Afreximbank, Africa Finance Corporation, Islamic Development Bank, Liquid Intelligent Technology, Radisson, Boeing, MultiChoice, and many more. 'I am honored to join the Africa Tech Festival Leadership Council and contribute to shaping the future of this iconic event. Africa's tech ecosystem is brimming with potential, and the festival plays a critical role in unlocking opportunities for growth and innovation. This new engagement also aligns with my commitment to participating in changing the narrative about Africa, showcasing the continent as a hub of creativity, resilience, and technological advancement,' said APO Group's Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard. Other members of the Leadership Council include Ravi Bhat, Chief Technology and Solutions Officer of Microsoft Africa, Charles Murito, Regional Director, Government Affairs&Public Affairs, Sub Saharan Africa of Google, Brelotte Ba, Deputy CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa of Orange, and Nomsa Chabeli, Group Chief Executive Officer of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). For more information about the Africa Tech Festival Leadership Council, please visit: For more information about the Africa Tech Festival, please visit: Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group. Media contact: marie@ About APO Group: Founded in 2007, APO Group ( is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally. Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including the PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy in Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year in 2024 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. APO Group's esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa's Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With teams on the ground in numerous African countries, we offer unmatched insights and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences. For more information, please visit our website:
Zawya
13-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Africa Tech Festival Announces Leadership Council for 2025
Africa Tech Festival ( the continent's leading platform for technology innovation and connectivity, is proud to announce the esteemed members of its Leadership Council for 2025. Comprising influential leaders from across Africa's technology, business, and investment sectors, the Leadership Council will play a pivotal role in shaping the festival's agenda, ensuring it remains at the forefront of industry trends, policy discussions, and digital transformation. The Africa Tech Festival 2025 Leadership Council comprises of: Brelotte Ba, Deputy CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa, Orange Antoinette Kwofie, Chief Financial Officer, MTN Ghana Bunmi Adeleye, Chief Strategy Officer, Retail Supermarkets Nigeria (Shoprite Nigeria) Charles Murito, Regional Director, Government Affairs&Public Affairs, Sub-Saharan Africa, Google Dido wa Kalonji, Chief Information Officer, First National Bank – Eswatini Faith Burn, Chief Information Officer, Eskom Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman, APO Group Nina Triantis, Global Head Telecoms, Media and Technology, Client Coverage, Corporate and Investment Banking, Standard Bank Nomsa Chabeli, Group CEO, SABC Mary Mahuma, Chief Information Officer, Southern Africa, Philip Morris Philip Besiimire, CEO, Vodacom Tanzania President Ntuli, Managing Director, South Africa, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Ravi Bhat, Chief Technology and Solutions Officer, Microsoft Africa Ayanda Peta, Chief Information Security Officer, African Rainbow Minerals Richard Cazalet, Executive: Strategy and Transformation, Telkom SA Shamiela Letsoalo, Director: Public Affairs, Naspers Limited Bringing together a wealth of expertise, the Leadership Council will provide strategic guidance to ensure Africa Tech Festival continues to address the most pressing issues and opportunities within Africa's digital economy. Their insights will help drive meaningful discussions on connectivity, AI, fintech, cybersecurity, cloud, and the future of digital infrastructure across Africa. 'Africa Tech Festival serves as a platform for connection, collaboration, and innovation across the continent,' said James Williams, Event Director of Africa Tech Festival. 'With the guidance of our Leadership Council, we will continue to curate an event that drives impactful conversations, supports industry growth, and fosters Africa's position as a global technology leader.' Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Tech Festival. About Africa Tech Festival 2025: Now in its 28th edition, Africa Tech Festival 2025 will take place from 11 to 13 November 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), bringing together over 15,000 technology leaders, policymakers, investors, startups, and visionaries. The festival encompasses four anchor events: AfricaCom – The continent's largest telecoms and connectivity event AfricaTech – The hub for technology, innovation, and enterprise growth AfricaIgnite – Driving growth and impact in Africa's startup ecosystem The AI Summit Cape Town – Where commercial AI comes to life With over 500 speakers, 300 exhibitors, and multiple networking opportunities, Africa Tech Festival remains the largest and most influential tech event on the continent. For more information about Africa Tech Festival 2025 and its Leadership Council, visit
