Latest news with #TelkomGroup
IOL News
3 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Market cheers as Telkom rings in robust results
Telkom store at N1 City in Goodwood, Cape Town. Image: Ian Landsberg/Independent Newspapers The market on Tuesday cheered as Telkom rang in robust results for the year ended 31 March and resumed its dividend, which saw its share surge 7%. In morning trade the share was up 7.35% at R42.95 on the JSE. Telkom said mobile subscribers were up 13.4% to 23.2 million. Serame Taukobong, Telkom Group CEO said, 'The company has largely modernised its technology infrastructure and executed on a robust, detailed strategy across its operations. The financial results for FY2025 confirm that the business has not only stabilised but has built a platform for accelerated growth." In key financial metrics, adjusted headline earnings per share rose 102.4% to 583.2 cents; while adjusted basic earnings per share were up 128.9% to 681.7 cents. Ebitda was up 25.1% to R11.8 billion; while revenue rose 3.3% to R43.9bn; with free cash flow up 555.2% to R2.8bn. Taukobong said Telkom's differentiated strategy over the past year centred on three key pillars: The first pillar was sales engine optimisation. "We engineered our sales engine to prioritise efficiency, streamlining regional teams into agile, data-driven units and investing in digital tools to empower frontline teams." The second pillar was network excellence. "We prioritised strategic investments in our infrastructure, expanding fibre and 4G/5G coverage to underserved areas while enhancing urban network performance." The final pillar was customer-centric value. "We continued disrupting the market by expanding our flexible, affordable plans tailored to diverse segments, from data-centric bundles for cost-conscious users to seamless connectivity solutions for small, medium and large enterprises. We supported these with transparent pricing and proactive service," he said. Taukobong said in a significant milestone, Telkom had successfully concluded the disposal of Swiftnet, the masts and towers business to the consortium led by Actis and Royal Bafokeng Holdings with a total cash consideration of R6. 618bn received on March 27. "We are strategically dedicating R4 750 million of the proceeds post year end to strengthen our balance sheet. This deliberate move is aimed at fortifying the balance sheet for future growth, fuelling innovation, and ensuring we maintain a competitive edge in a dynamic market. The remaining proceeds are earmarked for profit-enhancing capital investments as well as a special distribution to shareholders," he said. Serame Taukobong, Telkom Group CEO. Image: Supplied The group reinstated its dividend, saying it will return a total dividend of R1.3bn, which includes an ordinary cash dividend of R833 million (163 cents per share) and a special dividend of R500 million (98 cents per share) from the completed disposal of the Swiftnet masts and towers business, resulting in 261 cents per share being returned to Telkom shareholders. Across its various segments, Telkom reported notable growth. Telkom Consumer saw a 10.2% increase in mobile service revenue, supported by a 19.5% rise in its mobile data subscriber base, which reached 15.2 million. Openserve recorded a 5.9% increase in fibre-related data revenue and achieved a market-leading fibre-to-the-home connectivity rate of 50.4%. BCX posted a 12.7% increase in fibre-related data revenue, along with a 5.8% growth in cloud services revenue. Gyro, Telkom's standalone infrastructure subsidiary, contributed to improved liquidity by realising total cash proceeds of R730 million from the transfer of 57 properties. Looking ahead, Telkom said its medium-term roadmap leverages its current momentum as it sets "ambitious yet achievable objectives for the next three years". Maintaining a strong balance sheet remains a top priority; a focus on efficiency as well as monetising infrastructure assets and improving medium- to long-term returns. "Essential to achieving these financial targets is continued stability in South Africa, a growing economy supported by a macro-economic environment that does not deteriorate from current levels, and a stabilised energy supply. While their impact is not yet visible, recently escalated global tensions and emerging trade wars could limit South Africa's economic growth, " Telkom said. BUSINESS REPORT Visit:
IOL News
3 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Beauty Apleni appointed as CEO of Openserve
Telkom appoints Beauty Apleni as CEO of Openserve Image: Supplied Telkom Group has announced the significant appointment of Beauty Apleni as the Chief Executive Officer of Openserve. Effective 1 July 2025, Apleni's role will be pivotal in advancing the growth and adoption of Openserve's fibre network, which aligns with Telkom's evolving data-led strategy. With a remarkable career spanning over 25 years in the ICT industry, Apleni brings substantial executive leadership experience, having dedicated 15 years to roles that have honed her expertise in strategic formulation, execution, and operational excellence. Her journey at Telkom Group has seen her assume several key positions, including Chief of Sales and Technology, Chief Technology & Information Officer for Telkom Consumer, and most recently, Chief of Staff for Strategy and Mergers & Acquisitions. Career Chief of Sales and Technology at Telkom Consumer Chief Technology & Information Officer at Telkom Consumer Executive Service Delivery & Solution Design at Cybernest Executive IT Outsource Services at Cybernest Chief of Staff, Strategy and Mergers & Acquisitions at Telkom Group Apleni holds a BSc in Computer Science from Nelson Mandela University and has completed various qualifications encompassing management, strategy, and leadership. These academic credentials complement her extensive practical experience, positioning her well to guide Openserve through its next phase of growth. Serame Taukobong, CEO of Telkom Group, expressed confidence in Apleni's capabilities, stating, 'Beauty's experience and strong knowledge of our businesses, M&A and the ICT industry place her in an excellent position to lead the growth and sustainability of Openserve going forward. I have no doubt she will make a valuable contribution to sustaining the wave of momentum, driving the Group forward in a complex operating environment.' In her own words, Apleni expressed her honour in being appointed to lead Openserve towards enabling a digital future for South Africa. 'Having dedicated over two decades to Telkom, I'm deeply committed to our mission of connecting all South Africans to a better future. I am grateful to the Telkom board for entrusting me with this responsibility. I look forward to working with the group executive committee, the talented team at Openserve, and collaborating with the rest of the OneTelkom family,' she stated. Telkom also took a moment to extend its gratitude to Selby Khuzwayo, who has effectively served as Acting CEO since December 2024, ensuring operational excellence during this transition period. Khuzwayo's leadership has been instrumental in maintaining stability and momentum within the organisation. Apleni's appointment marks a significant step towards reinforcing Telkom's commitment to developing exceptional talent from within, and her vision will likely play a critical role in transforming the connectivity landscape in South Africa. IOL
Zawya
24-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
For South Africa's dreamers, doers and builders – this platform was made for you
Entrepreneurship is often romanticised as an exciting leap into independence, but for most founders, the road is uneven. It's full of setbacks, learning curves and more than a few sleepless nights. A great idea is only the beginning; success demands execution, adaptability and an ever-evolving understanding of customers and markets. Dr Mmaki Jantjies, Telkom Group executive for innovation and transformation In today's economy, entrepreneurs who thrive are those who embrace digital tools – not just to stay competitive, but to lead. And that's where TelkomLearn steps in, offering free and accessible digital education that empowers business owners to learn, readjust and grow. Digital fluency is the new competitive edge The business world is now built on digital infrastructure. Platforms that once belonged only to large corporations are now open to small businesses, enabling them to scale faster and reach broader markets. One standout example is Thabiso Mongane, who left a corporate banking career to build a fintech platform that serves the unbanked and underserved. Initially focused on disrupting spaza shop distribution in townships, Mongane saw a bigger opportunity: helping small, cash-based businesses access financial services – particularly credit. Through Telkom's FutureMakers Township Innovation Incubator, Mongane transformed a raw idea into a robust solution. 'I knew what the problem was,' he says, 'but not how to solve it.' In the course of 18 months, the programme helped him build Zaka Finance – a neobank that creates financial identities for those previously excluded from the formal economy. Zaka now serves small businesses, students, gig workers and informal traders, gathering data to build risk profiles for credit and other services. 'Zaka Finance is bridging a trust gap in a trustless environment,' Mongane says. 'Thabiso's business perfectly aligns with the FutureMakers programme,' says Dr Mmaki Jantjies, Telkom Group executive for innovation and transformation. 'It brings previously excluded businesses into the formal economy, drives economic growth, and creates jobs – exactly what we aim to support.' Closing the skills gap – at no cost Technology is a powerful tool, but only when entrepreneurs know how to use it. Many business owners understand they need digital skills, but formal training is often too expensive or time-consuming. TelkomLearn breaks down those barriers. Through global partnerships, it offers about 100 courses – many of them free – designed to help entrepreneurs build digital fluency and business confidence. Whether you are launching a side hustle or scaling a venture, the tools are at your fingertips. Some of the most popular TelkomLearn courses include: - Effective Business Websites – learn to create a site that draws traffic and drives sales. - IT for Business Success – use tech to cut costs and boost productivity. - Social Media Marketing – build your brand and reach your customers. - Presenting Data – turn analytics into better business decisions. Opportunity doesn't knock twice In the entrepreneurial world, you don't just need grit – you need guidance. TelkomLearn offers both, and for many, it's the bridge between surviving and thriving. If you're running a business, growing a hustle, or dreaming of starting one, now's the time to invest in your future. The knowledge is free. The opportunity is real. The only thing left is to act.
Zawya
03-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
South Africa:Telkom strengthens its team with Batlile Phaladi as new communications head
Telkom has announced the appointment of Batlile Phaladi as the new group executive: Corporate Communication. Pivotal role 'With her extensive reputation management experience and strong leadership, we are confident she will play a pivotal role in strengthening our brand and advancing our strategic objectives,' says Mpho McNamee, group chief of Corporate Affairs at Telkom. Phaladi will lead Telkom's strategic communication efforts to solidify the Group's reputation and embed the One Telkom culture within the organisation. Her key responsibilities will include managing all corporate communication interfaces for the Telkom Group and developing strategies to enhance its brand equity. Additionally, she will drive proactive communication programmes for the Telkom brand, products, leadership, finance, and regulatory initiatives. Phaladi, who joined Telkom on 1 March 2025, comes from BASF, where she served as head of corporate communications for the Southern Africa region. Her responsibilities included aligning business strategy with communication initiatives, driving cultural transformation through communications actions, and overseeing corporate communications. Prior to BASF, she held roles at Shoprite Group and Sappi Limited, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the company's global social media and digital communications strategy. At Shoprite, she successfully led the social-media customer engagement team and was part of the team that managed the online reputation of the group and its auxiliary brands. Driving initiatives ''Telkom is an established ICT leader with a deep pedigree in our country, and a reputation as the largest integrated communications company in Africa,'' says Phaladi. 'I am honoured to have joined this great organisation. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Telkom Group's success by driving its initiatives through impactful and effective communication,' she explains. Phaladi holds a degree in Media and Journalism from the University of the Witwatersrand, a Business Management qualification from Regent Business School, and an MBA from Wits Business School. She was recognised as one of the Mail & Guardian's Top 200 Young South Africans in 2021. ''Batlile is an exceptional individual – on a professional and personal level. We welcome Batlile to the Telkom community and look forward to her valuable contributions in driving impactful engagement both within the organisation and across our external stakeholders,'' concludes McNamee. All rights reserved. © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Yahoo
18-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Telkom Group Plans to Integrate Meta's LlaMa Technology
JAKARTA, Indonesia, March 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Telkom Group has an ambition to bring many businesses in Indonesia onto WhatsApp to drive economic growth and development in Indonesia. The Telkom Group plans to implement LlaMa, a state-of-the-art, open-source AI model developed by Meta, into the customer chatbots of its enterprise clients. This integration will enable businesses to create tailored and engaging experiences for users interacting with businesses on WhatsApp. Veronika, Telkomsel's chatbot, is already live on WhatsApp for sales and customer support. In the future, this chatbot will be powered by LlaMa, enhancing its capabilities and providing a more personalized experience for users. Budi Satria Dharma Purba, CEO TELIN, stated, "Integrating Meta's LlaMa technology into our platform is a key step in advancing technology solutions. TELIN is committed to improving telecommunications services locally and globally. We will support this initiative through Telin WhatsApp Business platform on NeuAPIX (Telin's Cloud-based Communication Platform as a Service (CPaaS)". Arief Pradetya, Vice President of Digital Advertising, Wholesale, and Interconnect at Telkomsel, stated," Meta's LlaMa will strengthen Telkomsel's position as a leader in regional digital telecommunications. It reflects our commitment to superior customer services and align with our strategy to offer innovative solutions that empower communities and businesses, contributing to national progress through a secure and reliable digital ecosystem". This initiative underscores Telkom Group's commitment to driving innovation, fostering digital inclusion, and empowering businesses and individuals to succeed in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE PT. Telekomunikasi Indonesia International (Telin)
