The Department of Communications & Digital Technologies has unveiled a national policy framework for artificial intelligence and is seeking input from the ICT sector and other stakeholders. This framework represents the initial step towards developing a comprehensive national AI policy for South Africa. Once finalized, the AI policy will form the “foundational basis” for establishing AI regulations and possibly an AI Act. The department’s statement noted that the policy framework was developed after “extensive international benchmarking,” which highlighted key strategic areas for AI policy development. The department is now moving towards “formal consultations” with stakeholders, aiming to complete this process…
Author: Staff Writer
Ford has issued a critical reminder about defective Takata airbags still present in a significant number of vehicles. Today, the automaker announced a do-not-drive advisory affecting approximately 765,000 cars globally, with 374,300 of those in the United States. The affected vehicles are equipped with potentially hazardous old airbags that need immediate replacement. The recall includes a range of models, from mainstream vehicles like the Ford Fusion and Edge to specialty cars like the first-generation Ford GT. Specifically, the recall covers: Driver and Passenger Airbags: Passenger Airbags: Mazda has also issued a do-not-drive advisory, identifying approximately 83,000 vehicles in the United…
At Ford’s Silverton Manufacturing Plant, the door assembly line has been significantly upgraded with the addition of two collaborative robots, or cobots, tasked with installing weatherproof shields in Ranger doors. These UR10e cobots work in tandem with human operators, improving efficiency without replacing jobs. They facilitate the precise application of weatherproof liners, using a roller attached to their ‘wrist’ to apply a consistent force of up to 5 kilograms. “The cobots know exactly how much force to apply and can apply that force more easily and precisely than we can,” explained Suresh Babu, Plant Manager of Silverton Vehicle Operations. “They…
GirlCode, an organization dedicated to enhancing software development skills among young women in Africa, is set to host a Pan-African hackathon focused on empowering female technologists. Scheduled for August 31 to September 1, the event invites talented women from across the continent to participate in a collaborative environment. The hackathon’s goal is to unite skilled female technologists to create innovative solutions that address the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. This two-day event will allow participants to work with peers, learn from industry leaders, and showcase their technical expertise. By addressing global challenges, the participants can positively impact their communities and…
MORE BUSINESS NEWS… Super Group has reported that South Africa’s logistics challenges are reducing the competitiveness of domestic hauliers, as copper exports are redirected from Durban to ports like Walvis Bay and Dar es Salaam. The JSE-listed company warned shareholders of a nearly one-third drop in full-year profit, causing a 14% decline in its share price to R25.39. Factors like a weak rand, load-shedding, and Transnet’s inefficiencies have led to long turnaround times at ports and border delays, impacting revenue. Meanwhile, neighboring ports have benefited from increased investments. Super Group also faces issues like supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and…
In a groundbreaking move, GWM has introduced the P-Series P500 Double-Cab bakkie, marking South Africa’s first petrol-electric hybrid bakkie. This innovative vehicle features a 325-volt electric motor, positioning it as the second most powerful double-cab bakkie in its segment. Initially showcased at the 2024 NAMPO trade show in May, the P500 is a part of GWM’s expanding portfolio, which also includes the Tank 300 and 500 SUVs, ORA electric models, and the new Jolion SUV PRO. The P500 offers a choice between a 2-litre turbocharged petrol self-charging hybrid and a new 2.4L Turbo Diesel engine. The top-of-the-range P500 HEV delivers…
The SAB Foundation is excited to announce the opening of applications for its highly regarded Tholoana Enterprise Programme. Known for its continuous success over the years, this programme offers a unique opportunity for high-potential small business owners dedicated to personal and business growth. This 18-month programme aims to empower entrepreneurs across all business sectors, with a focus on encouraging participation from women, youth, individuals in rural areas, and persons with disabilities. “Our past participants have described their experience as life-altering, transformational, and holistically developmental,” says Itumeleng Dhlamini, Head of Programmes at the SAB Foundation. “Many of these inspiring individuals have…
The Automechanika Johannesburg team has successfully concluded a roadshow across six African countries, aimed at engaging automotive aftermarket buyers and promoting the upcoming Automechanika Johannesburg trade show scheduled for November 19-21, 2024, at NASREC Johannesburg. The roadshow was strategically organized based on feedback from exhibitors and covered the most requested destinations for automotive trade engagement: Lagos, Nigeria; Accra, Ghana; Nairobi, Kenya; Kigali, Rwanda; Lusaka, Zambia; and Harare, Zimbabwe. This initiative was driven by the demand to strengthen connections across the continent. In Lagos, Nigeria, the team was warmly welcomed at the ASPAMDA Auto Parts Market, guided by Onyezor Jasper Any,…
After receiving a record 1,400 entries for the 2024 Nedbank Pitch & Polish Entrepreneurial Competition, 16 entrepreneurs have been selected to compete for a business upliftment prize worth R1 million. The competition features a diverse array of business types, including innovative tech start-ups, dreadlock salons, biodegradable textiles, and at-home health-testing solutions. Now in its 14th season, Nedbank Pitch & Polish continues to provide contestants with a structured learning program designed to enhance their investment pitching skills and increase their chances of securing business funding. Each entrepreneur is paired with a business mentor from Raizcorp, Africa’s leading incubator, to receive guidance…
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing many sectors, including the realm of fraud. One of the most concerning developments is the rise of deep fake technology, which poses a significant threat in South Africa. Criminals are employing increasingly sophisticated methods of impersonation fraud using AI-generated video and voice. These deep fakes are so realistic that they have tricked businesses into transferring millions of dollars to scammers. For example, an employee at a multinational company’s Hong Kong office transferred $26 million after a convincing video call with deep fakes of co-workers, including the CFO. Recently, a staff member at Luno, South Africa’s…