Latest news with #LeonNicholas
IOL News
27-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Starlink's role in bridging the digital divide in South Africa
Elon Musk's Starlink: A New Era for South Africa's Telecommunications? Image: Leon Nicholas/Independent Newspapers The anticipated potential entry of Elon Musk's Starlink into the South African telecommunications market has ignited a flurry of strategic considerations among industry players, regulators, and policymakers. Vodacom, the giant South African network operator, has waded into the debate saying satellite technology should be seen a complementary force in expanding digital inclusion rather than a direct threat to its core operations. This comes amid recent government developments, including the gazetting of a new B-BBEE policy that could potentially facilitate the entry of companies like Starlink, shortly after a high-profile meeting between President Cyril Ramaphosa and US President Donald Trump, whose campaign was partly funded by Musk. Responding to IOL, a Vodacom spokesperson clarified the company's position on satellite internet providers like Starlink. 'We recognise satellite networks as a valuable addition to our existing infrastructure. They are instrumental in bridging the connectivity gap, particularly in remote and hard-to-reach areas where terrestrial networks face limitations. 'We focus on investing in and expanding our 4G and 5G networks to serve urban and semi-urban communities.' The company said its strategy aligns with a broader industry trend of viewing satellite networks as enablers of digital inclusion rather than outright competitors. The Vodacom media team added that the telecom giant has partnered with global satellite providers such as AST and Amazon's Project Kuiper to extend its network reach across Africa and Europe. 'These collaborations leverage low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology to enhance coverage and resilience, especially in underserved regions.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Starlink's potential entry into South Africa raises significant questions about the country's regulatory landscape and market dynamics. ICASA, the national telecommunications regulator, has been examining a proposed satellite framework. Industry stakeholders have urged a balanced approach that promotes innovation while ensuring fair competition. Vodacom has welcomed ICASA's consultation process, advocating for a licensing framework that aligns with existing laws and maintains a level playing field. Mofihli Ramari, spokesperson for the B-BBEE Commission, emphasised that the ICT Sector Charter Council and ICASA oversee the B-BBEE Act and related sector codes. 'Any potential changes to B-BBEE legislation or the entry of new players like Starlink should be carefully examined within the current regulatory and transformation framework,' Ramari stated. 'The focus remains on ensuring that transformation goals - such as black ownership and enterprise development - are upheld, regardless of the nature of technological advances or new entrants.' Regarding employment, Vodacom reassured that technological innovation will not threaten existing jobs. 'Satellite networks serve specific use cases and do not replace the cost-effective, high-capacity terrestrial infrastructure that supports urban centers,' the company noted. "Vodacom's long-term vision emphasises investment in local workforce development, skills training, and support for black-owned enterprises through the ICT Sector Code. Amid fears of disruption, Vodacom said reiterated that it remained optimistic about satellite technology's transformative potential, as CEO Shameel Joosub highlighted at the 2024 UN General Assembly. 'Harnessing satellite and mobile technology together can finally close the digital divide—reaching rural communities, farmers, students, and underserved populations. We aim to ensure no one is left behind in South Africa's digital journey.'
IOL News
26-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
The impact of Starlink on South African digital inclusion
Elon Musk's Starlink: A New Era for South Africa's Telecommunications? Image: Leon Nicholas/Independent Newspapers The anticipated potential entry of Elon Musk's Starlink into the South African telecommunications market has ignited a flurry of strategic considerations among industry players, regulators, and policymakers. Vodacom, the giant South African network operator, has waded into the debate saying satellite technology should be seen a complementary force in expanding digital inclusion rather than a direct threat to its core operations. This comes amid recent government developments, including the gazetting of a new B-BBEE policy that could potentially facilitate the entry of companies like Starlink, shortly after a high-profile meeting between President Cyril Ramaphosa and US President Donald Trump, whose campaign was partly funded by Musk. Responding to IOL, a Vodacom spokesperson clarified the company's position on satellite internet providers like Starlink. 'We recognise satellite networks as a valuable addition to our existing infrastructure. They are instrumental in bridging the connectivity gap, particularly in remote and hard-to-reach areas where terrestrial networks face limitations. 'We focus on investing in and expanding our 4G and 5G networks to serve urban and semi-urban communities.' The company said its strategy aligns with a broader industry trend of viewing satellite networks as enablers of digital inclusion rather than outright competitors. The Vodacom media team added that the telecom giant has partnered with global satellite providers such as AST and Amazon's Project Kuiper to extend its network reach across Africa and Europe. 'These collaborations leverage low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology to enhance coverage and resilience, especially in underserved regions.' Starlink's potential entry into South Africa raises significant questions about the country's regulatory landscape and market dynamics. ICASA, the national telecommunications regulator, has been examining a proposed satellite framework. Industry stakeholders have urged a balanced approach that promotes innovation while ensuring fair competition. Vodacom has welcomed ICASA's consultation process, advocating for a licensing framework that aligns with existing laws and maintains a level playing field. Mofihli Ramari, spokesperson for the B-BBEE Commission, emphasised that the ICT Sector Charter Council and ICASA oversee the B-BBEE Act and related sector codes. 'Any potential changes to B-BBEE legislation or the entry of new players like Starlink should be carefully examined within the current regulatory and transformation framework,' Ramari stated. 'The focus remains on ensuring that transformation goals - such as black ownership and enterprise development - are upheld, regardless of the nature of technological advances or new entrants.' Regarding employment, Vodacom reassured that technological innovation will not threaten existing jobs. 'Satellite networks serve specific use cases and do not replace the cost-effective, high-capacity terrestrial infrastructure that supports urban centers,' the company noted. "Vodacom's long-term vision emphasises investment in local workforce development, skills training, and support for black-owned enterprises through the ICT Sector Code. Amid fears of disruption, Vodacom said reiterated that it remained optimistic about satellite technology's transformative potential, as CEO Shameel Joosub highlighted at the 2024 UN General Assembly. 'Harnessing satellite and mobile technology together can finally close the digital divide—reaching rural communities, farmers, students, and underserved populations. We aim to ensure no one is left behind in South Africa's digital journey.'
IOL News
25-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Rethinking the future of media: a case for a reimagined newspaper in the age of digital overload
10/09/12 Seanokeng Molosankwe reading Business Report copy on her Ipad 2 in JHB. Photo: Leon Nicholas Seanokeng Molosankwe reading Business Report copy on her Ipad 2 in JHB. Image: Leon Nicholas /Independent Newspapers. In a world increasingly defined by immediacy, interconnectivity, and relentless information streams, traditional media—particularly newspapers—face existential questions. Yet, despite decades of predictions proclaiming the death of print, newspapers continue to persist. The question now is not whether newspapers will survive, but how they must evolve to remain relevant. As we stand at the intersection of digital fatigue and content abundance, there is a compelling case to reimagine the role of newspapers—not as relics of the past, but as curated, future-focused knowledge platforms that prioritize depth over speed, clarity over clutter, and insight over immediacy. The evolution of media: from press to platform To understand the future of newspapers, we must first revisit the evolution of media itself. Historically, newspapers were the gatekeepers of information. The printing press democratized knowledge, and newspapers shaped public opinion, defined narratives, and held power to account. Then came radio, followed by television—each platform bringing news faster and to wider audiences. The digital revolution, however, upended everything. The rise of the internet and, subsequently, social media platforms, created a 24/7 news ecosystem. News consumption became non-linear, decentralized, and user-driven. Algorithms replaced editors, clicks replaced subscriptions, and virality often trumped veracity. And yet, amid all this, one truth endured: content remains constant. Audiences, despite being overwhelmed, still seek credible, quality content that adds value to their lives. Digital overload and the relevance of print We are now in an era of digital overload—a term that encapsulates the cognitive fatigue from constant notifications, breaking news, and endless scrolling. Information is abundant but wisdom is scarce. We are connected, but not always informed. In such a world, print—once seen as archaic—offers something digital cannot: a pause. Newspapers in print format provide a finite, structured, and distraction-free experience. The tactile act of turning a page encourages focus and reflection. There is a growing niche of readers—especially among professionals, educators, and even Gen Z—who are rediscovering the calm and depth offered by physical newspapers and journals. A Harvard Business Review piece in recent years noted a return to 'slow media' as a counter-response to the velocity of digital consumption. This does not mean rejecting digital but rather complementing it with formats that enable thoughtful engagement. Rethinking the Newspaper: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow So, how should newspapers adapt? Imagine a newspaper that devotes: 20% to Yesterday: Offering rich context and analysis of events that have already happened. Not breaking news, but 'why it matters' stories. This can include timelines, expert commentary, and fact-checked recaps. 30% to Today: Reporting on current events, policy shifts, business, culture, and community matters—but framed through the lens of relevance and impact. 50% to the Future: A bold pivot where the majority of content is forward-looking. Think emerging technologies, education, future of work, climate science, innovation in Africa, and trend forecasting. This positions the newspaper not just as a record of the past, but a map for tomorrow. This editorial philosophy not only differentiates the newspaper from fleeting social content but also cultivates a loyal readership who see value in curated knowledge rather than fragmented information. A case for smaller circulations with bigger impact The era of mass print circulation is over. But the age of purposeful circulation is just beginning. In an age of hyper-targeted content and personalized feeds, the goal should not be to reach everyone, but to deeply engage with a defined audience. A smaller print run can be sustainable—if it is backed by high-quality content, strong branding, and strategic distribution. Think of premium newspapers and journals such as The Financial Times Weekend, Monocle, New York Times Review, or even regional publications with niche influence. Their readerships are loyal because they trust the curation, not just the content. Print, in this context, becomes a luxury good—not in terms of price, but in the value of experience it offers. Limited circulation, high production quality, and thoughtful design can turn newspapers into collectible, referable products. Platform agnostic, audience obsessed One of the enduring lessons of the last two decades is that platforms will change, but audience needs are constant. Whether it's a website, app, podcast, newsletter, or print edition, what matters is that the content: Meets real needs (educational, emotional, or informational), Respects the audience's time and intelligence, and Adds long-term value to their lives. Newsrooms should no longer define themselves by the medium, but by the mission—to inform, educate, and inspire. Embracing the hybrid future The future of newspapers lies in hybrid models: Print editions released weekly or monthly, with emphasis on future-focused content and deep analysis. Digital extensions that include live updates, interactive features, and reader communities. Events, podcasts, and partnerships that expand the brand beyond the page. Data-driven insights to better understand and serve readers—without succumbing to clickbait culture. This hybrid model allows newspapers to move from being passive distributors of news to becoming active knowledge hubs and cultural conveners. Conclusion: A New Kind of Newspaper for a New Kind of Reader In 10 or 20 years, we may not call them 'newspapers' anymore. But the need for structured, credible, and curated media will remain. In a world grappling with the consequences of too much information, the next great media innovation might not be a new platform—it might be a return to intentional publishing. The future belongs to those who can offer clarity amid chaos, vision amid noise, and perspective amid panic. A newspaper that carries 20% of yesterday, 30% of today, and 50% of tomorrow is not only possible—it is necessary. Mike Ntsasa (CPRP)| Executive at Independent Media. Image: File.
IOL News
12-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Calgro M3 addresses South Africa's housing shortage through robust development pipeline
Calgro M3 has nine integrated housing developments contributing to revenue and profitability in Gauteng and the Western Cape currently underway, while it is putting down the infrastructure for the 20 000 unit Bankenveld project, near Sandton. Image: Leon Nicholas/African News Agency (ANA) Calgro M3's robust development pipeline is helping to address South Africa's serious housing shortage, but more needs to be done to lower the barriers to entry in the affordable housing sector, said the group CEO Ben Pierre Malherbe. He was interviewed at the release on Monday of the integrated development and memorial park group's annual results for the year to February 28, which showed it had maintained profit margin growth, continued to expand in both business segments, and all in spite of revenue pressures and a decision to temporarily slow production in the first half. The group had 36 000 residential opportunities secured at the end of the financial year, he said. The pipeline includes the newly acquired Bankenveld District City Development near Sandton, which will add in excess of 20 000 units to the group's pipeline. Malherbe said that for companies wishing to enter the low-cost housing market, it was a long development cycle compared with other countries, in that in South Africa, developers first have to establish bulk services and infrastructure, before building, a process that could add up to two years to the development time and costs. In many other countries, these costs are borne by the government in one way or another. Calgro M3, in partnership with joint venture partner Eris Property Group, exercised the option to acquire the Bankenveld land in September 2024. The development presents an opportunity for the group, which is currently on site working on the infrastructure, he said. Located near the Sandton and Waterfall City hubs and bordering Alexandra and the Marlboro Gautrain station, the project represents the last large-scale undeveloped property in the Sandton area and is well suited to meet the needs of most South Africans to be located more closely to their places of employment, said Malherbe. The first phase of infrastructure installation started in the first quarter of 2025. The results showed revenue and profit fell by 32.68% and 15.19%, respectively. This was from a decision to slow production in the first half due to political uncertainty around the elections, as well as to unlock existing stock value by leveraging prior investments in land and infrastructure costs. But gross profit margins increased to 29.43% from 27.21%, exceeding the target range of 20% to 25%. Cash increased by 26.16% to R154.7 million from R122.6m. Net debt to equity level was stable at 0.65 from 0.63 last year. Headline earnings per share decreased to 171.36 cents from 188.95 cents. The final dividend was lowered to 8.64 cents per share from 9.49 cents. Revenue had decreased to R868.9m from R1.29 billion. 'Our year was marked by resilience…we are pleased with the results when one thinks about the uncertain environment we traded in last year,' he said. Although interest rates began trending downward in the latter half of 2024, the full impact on home loan affordability was only expected to materialise by the third quarter of 2025 – about nine months after the rate cut cycle commenced. He said the gross profit margin benefited from historic land and infrastructure costs that optimised margin growth, a focus on open market sales, and stringent cost control. For the year, group revenue and profit fell by 32.68% and 15.19%, respectively. The residential property development segment, the most significant contributor to group performance, has nine active projects in Gauteng and Western Cape, all contributing to revenue and profit, with the products ranging from fully subsidised to premium homes above R3m. 'This diversity allows us to navigate current economic and market conditions effectively. Our focus is on delivering value-for-money homes in integrated developments and lifestyle estates, reaching a wide spectrum of different market segments with a keen focus on those in dire need of housing,' Malherbe said. The focus on delivery mix and the shift to greater open market sales had significantly contributed to growth in the group's gross profit. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Amid challenging economic conditions and the large volume of stock on hand, the group prioritised the completion of infrastructure installations across its existing development pipeline. Significant progress was made in completing bulk infrastructure requirements in the Fleurhof development. Malherbe said he anticipated gross profit margin growth might fall to within the targeted range in the new financial year. The Memorial Parks segment delivered another year of growth with its revenue contribution to the group increasing to 8%, up from 4% in the previous year, reflecting significant growth and expansion. Cash receipts grew by 41.3% in the year. 'This business segment met its target of covering group overhead costs. This upward trend reflects success in our improved sales strategies, increased market penetration, and enhanced customer confidence,' said Malherbe.
