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Sometimes, love is a leap and bound of faith.

Sometimes, love is a leap and bound of faith.
Rose

I’ve always been in awe of those who can stride up to the edge of a pool and leap in unhesitatingly. I’m more of a gradual immerser.

Toes first, then a slow walk towards the deeper end of the tidal pool, letting the water inch up my torso as my skin acclimates to the icy freshness of the seawater. I have a similar style in making life decisions. I don’t leap, I edge forward.

I left the turbulent waters of a long-term relationship in increments. And, a few years later, I acquiesced to the pull of a new love, not with a loud “Yes!” followed by a leap into my lover’s arms, but in slow, cautious steps.

There was a wriggle, the leg disappeared, and the little face of a joey popped out. I felt the beginning of an answer forming.

This is partly a character trait, but also a reaction to the violence of the waves that had tossed me around in the previous relationship. I had no desire to get caught up in similar stormy seas.

In the early days of this new relationship, we went camping. One evening I was standing at the tap, filling the kettle.

I looked back at our campsite, where this Aussie man I was dating stood in his yak hat and Peruvian cotton pants, preparing a fish recipe he’d photocopied from a cookbook.

The question I’d been holding in my heart found its answer. A quiet feeling of “yes” came from deep inside me, as though my cells and nerves and bones were in agreement.

Two years later, we had moved to Cape Town together. In my usual cautious fashion, I’d agreed to try it out for six months. I’d ended up loving life in this new city.

One evening, we were sitting on the lawn at a wine farm, waiting for a Bright Blue concert to start, when Joel looked over at me and casually asked, “What do you think about trying for kids?”

Inside me, there was no clear answer. Just a blankness with an undertone of pure terror. For weeks after, I sat with the question. There was no clear response.

We went to Australia to meet his family and see his country on a road trip from Darwin up north to Adelaide in the south.

One afternoon we went to visit the first telegraph station in Alice Springs. I sat with my question on a bench in the shade and watched a mob of kangaroos grazing.

One came close, thoughtfully munching as she made her way across the grass. As I watched, a long gangly leg stretched out from her pouch.

There was a wriggle, the leg disappeared, and the little face of a joey popped out. I felt the beginning of an answer forming.

A year later, our “Yes” was born. He was the best answer we could have wished for.

As our son grew older and our togetherness continued to grow, we talked about marriage. It was something we both felt ready for.

And so, one Mother’s Day, as our toddler played on the bed, the Aussie guy in the yak hat brought in his guitar and sang me a song he’d written.

I tried not to notice the ring-shaped box in his pocket as the song reached its strummed climax and he ended with, “Will you be my wife?”

And once again, every cell in my body nodded its head: “Yes.”

I have never flung myself off the edge with a wild whoop. My leaps of faith haven’t looked like they do in the movies, with dramatic gestures and nail-biting suspense.

Mine have been slower and more considered, an accumulation of thoughtful Yesses.

A bit like how I get into the water at Glencairn tidal pool. Cautiously, one step at a time. But I get in, and I’m always glad I did.

Emotional intelligence – the missing link in professional development for the AI-driven workplace

Emotional intelligence - the missing link in professional development for the AI-driven workplace
Roland Innes, Group CEO of DYNA Training

Emotional intelligence (EQ) has become a critical skill for modern leaders aiming to advance their careers. In an era where technology manages routine tasks, EQ is what differentiates leaders by enabling them to inspire, engage, and create cohesive teams. Leaders with strong EQ cultivate a culture where employees feel appreciated and understood, which enhances morale, loyalty, and productivity. This engagement directly contributes to team performance and, ultimately, career growth.

However, EQ is not just for aspiring leaders. It can also be the missing piece that revitalises a stalled career. If you’ve hit a plateau or feel stuck in your current role, developing your EQ can help you break through barriers and achieve your career goals. By improving your ability to understand and manage your emotions, as well as the emotions of others, you can build stronger relationships, resolve conflicts more effectively, and become a more inspiring and influential team member.

The power of EQ for career advancement
While technical skills are essential, EQ is what sets leaders apart. EQ is the ability to understand, use, and manage our own emotions in positive ways. It helps us to understand the emotions of others, respond to them with empathy, and build strong, positive relationships with colleagues, clients and superiors.

EQ is also a powerful, but frequently overlooked catalyst for career advancement. By enhancing interpersonal skills and leadership abilities, EQ empowers individuals to build strong relationships, resolve conflicts effectively, and foster more meaningful collaboration. Emotionally intelligent leaders inspire, motivate, and guide their teams with empathy and understanding, leading to increased job satisfaction and team productivity.

As if that weren’t enough, EQ also enables individuals to make informed decisions, consider the emotional impact of their choices, and fosters resilience, allowing them to navigate challenges and adapt to change with a positive mindset. Ultimately, EQ is a key driver of long-term career success. Perhaps more so than hard skills and technical competencies.

Why does EQ matter so much these days?
Navigating change is yet another area where EQ plays a key role. As the pace of change accelerates, leaders who demonstrate resilience and adaptability inspire their teams to stay focused and productive. EQ supports effective conflict resolution, as emotionally intelligent leaders approach disagreements constructively, helping to maintain lines of communication and trust within teams, as they learn to adapt together.

In the increasingly Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven and hybrid work environment, EQ is essential for leaders who must communicate authentically and make everyone feel valued, even from afar. This ability to connect across AI–powered divides ensures unity and purpose. Similarly, EQ enhances client relationships by allowing leaders to understand clients beyond technical solutions, fostering loyalty and setting themselves and their organisations apart in competitive markets.

Attracting and retaining talent has become another area where EQ matters. Today’s workforce values empathy, transparency, and inclusivity in leaders, and those who exhibit EQ naturally build supportive workplaces that retain top talent and ensure a steady path for the team’s success. EQ leads to better decision-making, as leaders with self-awareness can objectively assess their strengths and weaknesses, allowing them to make thoughtful, unbiased choices that earn respect and trust.

The EQ advantage – a comparative look at career progression
As organisations increasingly value a blend of technical skills and emotional insight, EQ has become a key differentiator in career progression. Leaders who prioritise EQ not only position themselves for success but also contribute to shaping agile, resilient organisations that are properly equipped to thrive in an evolving world.

Here’s a comparative table illustrating the career progression of a leader who embraces EQ versus one who does not:

Career stage Leader with high EQ Leader with low EQ
Early career Builds strong interpersonal relationships and trust, leading to early recognition and promotion opportunities. Focuses on technical skills alone, achieving some initial success but struggling with interpersonal conflicts and limited collaboration with peers.
Mid-career Moves into leadership roles due to strong communication and team-building skills. Faces challenges moving up; promotions are slower due to difficulties in team dynamics and managing conflicts effectively.
Senior leadership Advances to senior leadership, becoming a mentor for emerging leaders due to well-developed EQ and influence. Faces stagnation, with peers and superiors hesitant to entrust larger teams or projects due to strained relationships and perceived inability to manage effectively.
Peak career/legacy Achieves a legacy as a transformative, visionary leader who balanced technical and human skills to drive sustainable growth. Leaves behind a legacy of technical success but poor people management, often remembered for high turnover and a lack of team loyalty.

 

This table highlights the differences in career trajectory based on the presence or absence of EQ.

Cultivating EQ for career success
Cultivating EQ requires focus on these key strategies: self-awareness, self-regulation and motivation. Self-awareness is fundamental, allowing you to understand your emotions, strengths, weaknesses, and reactions to different situations. Self-regulation is essential for managing emotions effectively, especially in challenging times. Motivation drives success, so set clear goals, stay focused, and find what inspires you.

Furthermore, empathy is the cornerstone of strong relationships, so practise active listening, seek to understand others’ perspectives, and respond with compassion. Finally, honing social skills like effective communication, conflict resolution, and relationship-building will empower you to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics.

By investing time and effort in these areas, you can significantly enhance your EQ and achieve greater success in your career. Remember, EQ is a skill that can be developed and improved over time.

Uncle Waffles Grace the Cover of Rolling Stone Africa

Uncle Waffles Makes History as the First Female Artist to Grace the Cover of Rolling Stone Africa
Uncle Waffles

Rolling Stone Africa proudly announces Amapiano DJ and producer Uncle Waffles (real name Lungelihle Zwane) as their latest cover star. The Swazi-born sensation has captivated global audiences with her electrifying performances, unique style, and undeniable influence in the Amapiano music movement.

Uncle Waffles’ journey is one of resilience and self-determination. During South Africa’s strict COVID-19 lockdowns, she taught herself how to DJ, spending up to eight hours a day perfecting her craft. However, it was a viral video of her dancing during a DJ set—spinning Young Stunna’s hit “Adiwele”—that propelled her into stardom. The clip caught the attention of Drake, who publicly co-signed her talent, becoming one of her biggest supporters.

“For our February cover, we wanted a talent that represents an African success story—one that resonates with the youth. Uncle Waffles was the perfect choice, blending music, style, and high-energy performance. As the first female artist to grace the cover of Rolling Stone Africa, she is not only making history for herself but for the entire Amapiano and Afro House community in South Africa,” said D.R. Bellegarde Smeralda, CEO of Rolling Stone Africa.

The cover feature delves into her remarkable rise, highlighting how Lungelihle Zwane transformed into the global phenomenon known as Uncle Waffles.

Uncle Waffles

Amapiano’s Reigning Star

Uncle Waffles has continuously pushed boundaries in the Amapiano scene. Her debut EP Red Dragon (2022) introduced fans to her distinctive sound, with the lead single “Tanzania” reaching quadruple-platinum status in South Africa. She later expanded her musical scope with her debut album Asylum (2023), blending hip-hop influences into her signature Amapiano beats.

Her growing influence has led to international tours, major festival performances, and collaborations with top-tier artists, solidifying her position as one of Africa’s most sought-after DJs and producers.

Rolling Stone Africa: Amplifying African Stories

Launched in August 2024 with multiple offices across Africa, Rolling Stone Africa is dedicated to celebrating African music, culture, and stories. The magazine is led by the Mwankom Group via a joint venture with Penske Media Corporation (PMC), publisher of the Rolling Stone brand.

Rolling Stone Africa offers in-depth features, exclusive interviews, and digital-first content, ensuring a global audience stays connected with Africa’s evolving cultural landscape. The magazine’s mission is to:
✅ Celebrate and promote African culture, music, and voices.
✅ Transcend borders and captivate international audiences.
✅ Inspire and uplift the continent’s creative youth.

A portion of Rolling Stone Africa’s proceeds goes toward charities supporting African history preservation and children’s welfare, reinforcing its commitment to making a tangible impact beyond entertainment.

Read the full cover story here: Rolling Stone Africa – February Digital Cover Interview

Follow Rolling Stone Africa on Instagram: @rollingstoneafrica

Celebrate Love with the Samsung Galaxy S25 this Valentine’s Day

Celebrate Love with the Samsung Galaxy S25 this Valentine’s Day
Samsung Galaxy S25

Experience love like never before this Valentine’s Day, with the new Samsung Galaxy S25 Series. From memorable moments captured with breathtaking clarity to seamless connections that can bring hearts closer, the Galaxy S25 isn’t just a phone – it’s the AI companion that helps you express love, plan perfect dates, and turn every ordinary moment into an extraordinary moment. Whether you’re planning a surprise for your significant other or reminiscing about cherished memories, the Galaxy S25 is here to make it all happen with ease.

New Ways to Find Romantic Spots and Gifts

The Galaxy S25 is the love whisperer you never knew you needed. Powered by advanced AI, it’s not just smart – it’s intuitive, anticipating your needs to make sure you never forget important dates with your partner. Thanks to the ability to take seamless actions across apps. For instance, you can search for a romantic restaurant within a 10km radius of your location, that serves French cuisine, then add it into your diary and text or email an invitation to your partner.

Capture Love’s Most Beautiful Moments – Even in low light

Capturing love’s beautiful moments shouldn’t be ruined by imperfect lighting anymore. Capture your romantic evenings in stunning clarity with Nightography on the Galaxy S25 – whether it’s a candlelit dinner or a moonlit walk – even in low light. After capturing your video, edit using the improved Audio Eraser that lets you remove unwanted noise with great precision. Your love story deserves to shine any time of day, and the Galaxy S25 ensures every memory is captured in its most dazzling form.

Never Forget a Special Date Again

Spontaneous ideas deserve to be turned into cherished memories. Thanks to Search to Calendar, the Galaxy S25 effortlessly transforms those “We should do this!” moments into well-organised plans. Found the perfect spot for a getaway or remembered an anniversary you can’t miss? Simply search, and your phone adds it to your calendar – keeping love organised and ready to bloom.

With Now Brief and Now Bar, your AI companion will keep you informed about hallmark days and personal anniversaries, and it could even help you plan the perfect surprise. Planning Valentine’s Day? Let the Galaxy S25 help you stay on top of important reminders and manage your calendar. Conversations flow effortlessly, leaving more room for what truly matters – your connection.

The Love Letter Reimagined

Gone are the days of handwritten love letters only (though they remain a powerful tool). With the Galaxy S25, you could ask Gemini to suggest a romantic haiku poem, or use Note or Chat Assist to write a short and sweet romantic message for your other half. With a few easy finger taps, your thoughts and dreams are ready to be shared with your partner most chicly.

Thoughtful Gestures, Simplified

In the digital age, gestures of love have never been easier. In-app Search helps you find and share memories, whether it’s an old photo or a sweet note, that instantly warms the heart. Want to surprise your partner with a long-lost photo from your first date or a memory from a shared trip? It’s as simple as searching and sending, strengthening your connection in the most heartfelt ways.

The Gift of Knowing Exactly What They Want

You could be “Netflix and Chilling” with your partner, and they see an item (anything from a plant to a pair of shoes) they like and you immediately think of getting it for them. No more guessing – Circle to Search is the secret weapon of thoughtful gift-giving, allowing you to snap and circle what’s on screen (whether it’s a photo or video) to search for exactly what your loved one wants. Circle to Search lets you get all the information about it (like where you can get it) without giving away your secret romantic intention. So, whether you’re buying a Valentine’s Day gift or surprising them on a special occasion, it’s all made effortless, ensuring every gift is a hit.

Want another way gift-searching has been enhanced? With its human-like ability to interpret your needs, the Galaxy S25’s multimodal search can help you combine voice, image, and text inputs to search for ideas. Simply take pictures of items your partner likes, and the system can recommend gifts based on those inputs

FlySafair and Wings and Wishes make lifesaving travel possible for children

FlySafair and Wings and Wishes make lifesaving travel possible for children
FlySafair and Wings and Wishes

For single mum, Lauren, getting her son Joel to his check-up at a health specialist in Cape Town every year can be a challenge. Joel suffered complications at birth, resulting in epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and speech and learning delays among other conditions. These annual visits are critical to his health but require a 940-kilometre drive from the family’s home in Komani (Queenstown), which can be long, expensive and risky should Joel need emergency medical care.

Thanks to a partnership between FlySafair and Wings and Wishes, a non-profit organisation dedicated to transporting critically and chronically ill children to receive lifesaving medical treatment at major centres, the stress of this journey has been alleviated for both Lauren and Joel, as well as hundreds of other families facing the same travel difficulties.

“Since 2021, FlySafair has worked with Wings and Wishes to transport children, who are deemed financially less fortunate, to receive essential medical services that are not available to them at a local level. In just over three years, we have assisted 260 children on 1 821 flights across South Africa, ensuring that they can receive the care they need in time and that their flying experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible,” says Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair.

For children who are flying for the first time, volunteers meet them at the airport to assist them and provide them with a backpack of toiletries, pyjamas, a soft toy and other items to make their hospital stay more comfortable. Often, they are personally welcomed and announced on the flight by the crew, where they get to meet the captain and receive their own set of wings. The airport and hospital transfers are organised by Wings and Wishes so children can attend their appointments smoothly from landing.

“Having a sick child causes tremendous stress and anxiety for parents. The financial strain and travelling regularly to another city for treatment is sometimes too overwhelming, with children defaulting on their treatment, getting very sick and even dying as a result. We believe that transport should never be a barrier to children receiving the expert medical care that they deserve, no matter where they live. That is why our partnership with FlySafair is so important. For example, when we receive a call that an organ is available for a transplant patient, within half an hour flights are booked and a child’s life is changed forever,” says Inge Human, manager at Wings and Wishes.

This experience is something that Namhla knows too well. Her daughter Luhle was diagnosed with biliary atresia as an infant, requiring a liver transplant. Living in the Eastern Cape, and unemployed, Namhla is able to fly to Johannesburg for Luhle’s check-ups with Wings and Wishes and FlySafair.

“I often missed her appointments in Joburg as I did not have the means to travel. This impacted her health, and I was so scared that my child would die. When I think of how Wings and Wishes has helped me, I get emotional every time, and when I travel with FlySafair, it feels like I have a new family,” she says.

Similarly, Prenisha’s son Suvaan was diagnosed with acute liver failure in 2023, and when his first liver transplant failed, he underwent a second surgery. Following complications to the procedure, he was in hospital for seven months, requiring intense physiotherapy and other treatments. In between this trauma, Prenisha lost her husband last year, becoming the sole breadwinner in the family.

“Suvaan must come to Johannesburg for his checkups and procedures as there are no doctors who can assist us in Durban. Wings and Wishes and FlySafair have come to my rescue by helping us with the flights, including priority boarding so there are no delays, and making certain that Suvaan is always comfortable. The support has allowed me to focus on the monthly medical bills and allowed my son to get all the help that he needs to live,” adds Prenisha.

With its vast coverage of national routes, on-time performance and large number of flights a day, FlySafair is well-positioned to help these families in need throughout South Africa.

“Without the help of Wings and Wishes and FlySafair, my son would never be able to see his neurologist, therapists and specialists all over the country. FlySafair is the easiest, fastest, safest way to get to Bloemfontein, Johannesburg and Cape Town from where we live in White River, Mpumalanga,” says Teresa, whose son Jordan has epilepsy, spasticity and cerebral palsy, and cannot walk or be fed externally.

“Our partnership with Wings and Wishes is a clear example of how important it is to safely and reliably get our passengers to their destinations on time, every time. As we remain committed to ensuring that all South Africans can access the benefits of travel, we are proud to continue to change lives for the better,” concludes Gordon.

Samsung Galaxy Studio Makes its debut in Menlyn

Samsung Galaxy Studio Makes its debut in Menlyn, Tshwane
Samsung Galaxy Studio in Menlyn, Tshwane

A look into the future of mobile AI with the Galaxy S25 Series at Samsung’s Galaxy Studio

Samsung is set to elevate the shopping experience at Menlyn Shopping Centre with the opening of its latest Galaxy Studio on 14 February until 2 March 2025. Exciting and interactive, Galaxy Studio will give visitors a chance to experience Samsung Galaxy devices, including the recently unveiled Galaxy S25 Series which boasts advanced AI capabilities designed to open possibilities and seamlessly integrate into daily life.

“With its rich history, cultural diversity, and natural wonders, Tshwane, is a city that leaves a lasting impression. Galaxy Studio has grown over the years with every flagship launch in cities around the country including Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg. We are excited to bring Galaxy Studio to Tshwane and showcase innovative features of the latest Galaxy S25 and highlighting Samsung’s cutting-edge technology. We hope attendees will have a memorable experience at the very first Galaxy Studio in Tshwane,” says Kgomotso Mosiane, Head of Marketing: Mobile eXperience at Samsung.

The Galaxy Studio offers a unique experience which includes an exclusive tour, live demonstrations and an up-close look at the first human-like AI companion. Studio has something for everyone and is a ‘must attend’ if you like to explore cutting-edge technology, are curious about smart and personalised AI enhancements that open you to a world of infinite [creative and productive] possibilities, or even if you are just thinking about your next device upgrade. PLUS, you can accumulate stamps at every stop of the tour to stand a chance to score BIG in limited giveaways.

What’s a galaxy without the stars? As part of the Galaxy Studio experience, attendees can look forward to some of SA’s hottest names making waves at Galaxy Studio with whom they can enjoy the studio experience.

Touted the most intuitive mobile AI device, the Galaxy S25 Series redefines how we interact with the world in the most natural experience – almost as if you were communicating with a friend. Powered with the all-new One UI 7, the Samsung latest flagship offering can understand the context of everything on your screen – from voice, images, etc.– to anticipating your needs and prompting next-step suggestions. Receive tailored actionable insights and suggestions based on your habits – generated-on-device – to make your day seamless from start to finish with Now Brief. See the information you need most, quickly and easily from your lock screens with Now Bar.

Galaxy Studio is Samsung’s invitation to all to come and experience the way users can interact with their phone – and their world through the world of Galaxy. Come and experience how AI can transform your every day and moments so you can Live More. Do Less.

Rising online romance scams highlight cybersecurity need for women

Rising online romance scams highlight cybersecurity need for women
Taylor Kwong

Raising awareness about the critical importance of online safety for women has never been more pressing. Documentaries like The Tinder Swindler, and TV shows such as Catfish highlight how digital crimes disproportionately affect women. This draws attention to the need for more vigilance and education on digital safety, as well as efforts to combat technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV).

Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love, but sadly, cybercriminals often use it to manipulate people’s emotions for their malicious purposes. As we prepare to share tokens of affection with loved ones this month, it’s important to be aware of the tactics employed by cybercriminals, who craft enticing emails, messages, or social media posts that appear to be from a secret admirer or a long-lost love interest. Their goal is to trick the recipient into clicking on malicious links or downloading infected attachments, which can lead to scams.

Cybercrime costs the country an estimated R2.2 billion annually, with women especially vulnerable to online scams, harassment, and digital exploitation. A recent Rutgers report also reveals connections between online violence and the offline world. It highlights a lack of understanding about the range, prevalence and legal status of TFGBV in the seven African countries sampled, including South Africa. This is worsened by low digital literacy, particularly among women and girls, and limited educational campaigns on digital hygiene. The report highlighted the gender gap in digital access, with only 25% of people in the least developed countries using mobile internet, and most of the 3.4 billion without access being women.

Moreover, romance scams are on the rise locally, with one recorded loss in the Western Cape costing the victim R24 million. This alarming statistic emphasises the urgent need for comprehensive online safety measures.

“The world is more connected than ever, thanks to social media and dating apps that enable people to stay in touch with old friends worldwide and forge new relationships online. With the rise of online scams, it’s essential for women to educate themselves and others about the latest phishing tactics and to spread this knowledge. Awareness is a powerful tool in combating cybercrime, helping protect both their hearts and personal data from falling victim to these scams,” says Taylor Kwong, Head of Marketing at Vuma.

To help safeguard against online scams, and protect your personal information online and on social media pages, keep the following tips from Kwong in mind:

  • Create complex, long and unique passwords, set up a two-authentication factor (2AF), and never share your password with anyone.
  • Be cautious with camera and microphone permissions on new apps and websites, as granting unnecessary access can allow malicious code to secretly record audio or video.
  • Only open links from trusted sources and do not follow any prompts to install applications shared over email chat boxes by just anyone, no matter how friendly they seem.
  • For features such as who can view your profile, posts, join groups, tag, and more, you can adjust privacy settings to filter out unwanted friend requests or romantic proposals.  Block suspicious accounts on social media and WhatsApp contacts, as perpetrators often use fake profiles to target victims.
  • Whether you’re tracking your fitness goals or are an avid foodie who loves sharing new restaurant options limit sharing personal information like your location, address and contacts details. Also, when meeting in-person choose a well-lit, populated location for your first meeting.
  • Overall, avoid sharing sensitive information, like personal sensitive documents (ID, Passport, driver’s license or ban card details) pictures or anything which can potentially become a reason for embarrassment, blackmail or extortion later with your followers on your feed or even in private chat rooms.

“Access to the internet offers many benefits, but it can also come with hidden dangers, especially for women who may not feel as comfortable online. We believe that everyone deserves to enjoy the advantages of connected world safely.” says Kwong.

How agency banking is transforming financial access in developing countries

How agency banking is transforming financial access in developing countries
Mxolisi Msutwana, Managing Director, Anglophone West Africa, Onafriq

The journey toward financial inclusion begins with trust. For individuals unfamiliar with formal financial systems, having low-cost and reliable ways to deposit and withdraw money — cash-in, cash-out (CICO) services — is essential. These accessible solutions build confidence, encouraging people to store money in digital formats and explore other financial tools. 

When empowered to engage meaningfully in the economy, individuals can fund small businesses, drive entrepreneurship, and contribute to local development. Financial inclusion enables communities to go beyond survival and build resilience, helping them weather economic shocks, reduce poverty, and foster sustainable growth. These opportunities create a ripple effect, strengthening economies at the individual and community levels.

Despite its established importance, access to financial services remains a critical challenge in many developing countries. Inadequate infrastructure and barriers like low incomes and high fees leave many in Africa disconnected from formal financial systems. The scarcity of bank branches, ATMs, and digital networks, coupled with long distances to urban centres in some cases, restricts access to communities living in geographical and economic peripheries, perpetuating economic inequality and limiting growth opportunities.

To illustrate, only 49% of adults across sub-Saharan Africa own a formal bank account, though this figure varies widely between countries. For instance, in Ghana, 62% of adults have bank accounts; in Nigeria, the figure is 64%; and in Kenya, where mobile money has been a key factor in expanding access, it’s 79%. Similarly, the availability of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) per 100,000 adults varies significantly: in Nigeria, there are approximately 16.2 ATMs; in Kenya, about 6.9; and in Ghana, around 11.4. It is crucial to note that Africa is vast, and the financial landscape is not uniform, as evidenced by the number of ATMs in South Africa, which had 43.6 ATMs per 100,000 adults in 2021. In contrast, developed countries tend to have a higher density of ATMs; for example, high-income countries have an average of 62.7 ATMs per 100,000 adults.

Internet usage also highlights these challenges. As of 2022, 70% of Ghana’s population used the internet, compared to 35% in Nigeria and 41% in Kenya. Nigeria and Kenya fall significantly below the global internet usage rate of 64%.

Such disparities highlight the importance of innovative solutions like agency banking. We’ve seen how effective it can be in places like Nigeria and Kenya, and it has the potential to improve financial access in other developing countries as well. By relying on a network of authorised agents equipped with point-of-sale (POS) devices, agency banking can offer essential services such as cash deposits, withdrawals, bill payments, and money transfers.

Imagine it like a water distribution system. Instead of everyone having to walk several kilometres to a central source of water (the bank), smaller taps (agents) are installed throughout every area. These taps provide the same clean water (financial services) directly to people where they live, saving time and effort while ensuring everyone can stay hydrated (financially included). 

Agency banking in action

The agency banking model has gained traction in Nigeria due to its ability to offer convenience through proximity and responsiveness. It’s no surprise that the most popular use for agency banking in the country is withdrawing and depositing cash. This has particularly seen an adoption uptick in the West African nation following commercial banks’ capping of withdrawals at ₦100,000 ($64).  

Recent IMF data highlights this trend, illustrating the rapid expansion of non-traditional access points across sub-Saharan Africa, with mobile money agents nearly doubling from 2019 to 2023.

In Kenya, an agent network played a crucial role in the growth of M-Pesa by significantly expanding its reach and accessibility. By establishing a widespread network of local agents, M-Pesa was able to provide services in various communities, including rural areas where traditional banking infrastructure was limited. These agents facilitate transactions, enabling users to deposit, withdraw, and transfer money conveniently. The trust established between agents and the community also encouraged more people to adopt M-Pesa as a reliable financial tool, further enhancing its popularity and effectiveness as a savings vehicle.

Today, agency banking operates under the framework established by the Central Bank of Kenya, allowing commercial banks to partner with third-party retailers who serve as authorised banking agents. Over 30,000 retail outlets are currently operating as bank agents. Here, agent banking has complemented the success of mobile money platforms, as the proximity of households to agents is a significant factor in decisions to adopt mobile money. This further enhances access to financial services and expands credit availability and savings options for small business owners.

While agency banking adoption has been slower in Ghana than in other developing nations, it has steadily grown since arriving in 2013. Partnerships between financial institutions—such as traditional banks, fintechs, and telcos—and local agents have enabled rural populations to access microloans and savings accounts, contributing to economic empowerment. 

While a lack of access to financial services stems from various challenges, including poor infrastructure, low incomes, and a lack of trust in traditional banking systems, agency banking offers a compelling solution by decentralising service delivery and making it easier for people to perform transactions without the need to visit a bank branch or ATM.

Challenges and opportunity for growth

Despite its success, agency banking faces unique challenges, especially in the areas that need it most — rural and peri-urban communities. These challenges can be grouped into three key areas: operational difficulties, financial constraints, and regulatory inconsistencies.

Operational Challenges: Given the limited presence of banks or ATMs in remote locations, agents often face logistical hurdles, such as restocking cash supplies. Additionally, they are prone to risks such as hardware or software failures, which can halt operations, and low levels of formal training, which hinder their ability to serve customers effectively. Fraud and counterfeit bills also pose significant risks, exposing agents to financial losses.

Financial Viability: First-movers — or organisations pioneering agency banking in new markets — often face significantly higher costs. These include training agents, educating users, and building trust in communities unfamiliar with formal banking. However, after these initial investments, competitors can easily enter the same market and benefit from the groundwork laid by the first mover, often at a lower cost. This can discourage private entities from taking on the financial risks of entering underserved regions.

Regulatory Barriers: The lack of consistent regulatory frameworks across African markets leads to fragmented implementation. In some regions, agency banking faces stricter oversight, increasing compliance burdens, while in others, inadequate regulation creates gaps that expose agents and customers to higher operational risks, such as a lack of recourse mechanisms in cases of fraud. 

Still, agency banking offers significant growth opportunities. Financial institutions can tackle these hurdles by investing in training programs that confidently equip agents to offer a wider range of services. Upgrading network facilities and using advanced technologies, like biometric authentication and enhanced POS systems, can boost efficiency and security while minimising fraud risks. Strengthening cash logistics networks is also essential to ensure agents in remote areas have the liquidity and support they need to meet customer demands.

Successful innovations in markets like Kenya showcase the potential. Biometric systems have increased security and reduced fraud, while countries like Ghana and Nigeria are exploring ways to link agent banking with digital wallets and e-commerce. These initiatives aim to expand services beyond basic transactions, providing access to credit, pensions, and insurance.

The Role of Governments and Public-Private Partnerships

Private sector-led agency banking has expanded successfully in urban areas, but rural expansion remains challenging. Unlike cities, rural areas have lower transaction volumes, dispersed populations, and weaker economic activity, making agent operations less profitable. Rural areas often have unique financial systems that differ within and across countries. Expanding into these markets requires tailored strategies rather than a direct urban replication.

Regulatory barriers further limit private investment. In countries like South Africa, agency banking networks are dominated by large retailers and supermarkets, as banks prefer partners with existing infrastructure and the ability to meet compliance requirements​. As a result, large retail chains operate in more commercially viable areas, with little incentive to expand into deep rural regions with low economic activity. Similarly, operational and compliance requirements may make it difficult for smaller organisations to enter the market. 

To address these limitations, governments and regulatory bodies must play a key role in promoting agency banking by creating public-private partnerships (PPPs) that combine private innovation with public resources. India’s Business Correspondent (BC) model is a great example of how these collaborations can expand financial services to underserved communities.

The Business Correspondent (BC) model, launched by the Reserve Bank of India in 2006, utilised agency banking to address the distribution of welfare payments, ensuring payments went directly to the right beneficiaries and improved financial access in rural areas. Tying welfare payments to the system helped educate the market on using financial services, which would have otherwise fallen on private first movers, easing their entry into underserved regions.

The BC model became even more efficient with the introduction of Aadhaar, India’s biometric ID system. Aadhaar-enabled tools like eKYC helped agents quickly verify customer identities, cut onboarding costs, and speed up service delivery. Interoperable agent networks enabled multiple banks to utilise the same infrastructure, extending services to remote areas.

By implementing smart policies, leveraging technology, and fostering shared resources, millions of underserved individuals gained access to essential financial services, providing useful insights for other regions.

Conclusion

Agency banking represents a transformative approach to bridging the financial inclusion gap in developing countries. By decentralising access to essential financial services, it empowers underserved communities, fosters entrepreneurial activity, and cultivates trust in formal financial systems. As illustrated by its successes in Nigeria and Kenya, agency banking provides immediate convenience and promotes long-term economic resilience by enabling individuals to manage their finances effectively.

However, realising its full potential requires ongoing collaboration between financial institutions, regulatory bodies, and local agents to address infrastructure limitations and low financial literacy. Through the power of agency banking, we can create more inclusive financial ecosystems that drive sustainable growth and ultimately improve the quality of life for millions in developing regions. The time to embrace and expand these innovative solutions is now, as they hold the keys to unlocking opportunity and fostering economic empowerment for all.

Industry Research Positions Brands as Thought Leaders

Industry Research Positions Brands as Thought Leaders
Velly Bosega, CEO and Owner of Oak Ventures (SME South Africa)

SME South Africa, author of the highly quoted SME Landscape Report, is familiar with the benefits of sharing industry research. Through previous reports and the many others to come, SME South Africa has helped position itself as a thought leader in the SME space and they are encouraging brands to collaborate with them and achieve the same degree of recognition

Being a thought leader or industry expert means that you build trust and credibility with your audience about your topic of knowledge. This is achieved by presenting data-driven research in an easily digestible format that allows you to reinforce brand identity in the process. Furthermore, it drives leads and champions the causes you are involved with.

“Brands are positioned as industry experts due to the insight that research reports provide,” Velly Bosega, CEO and Owner of Oak Ventures (SME South Africa) says. “This is achieved because the reports elevate the author’s brand positioning and anyone who works in the industry will refer back to your valuable data.”

Bosega has witnessed how this worked for SME South Africa. Its SME Landscape Report has been quoted by postgraduate research from students at Wits University and GIBS, as well as in press releases by formidable brands. “We also see that International companies who are exploring new markets in South Africa and need to understand their target audience – SMEs in our case – use reports such as these to determine if international investments in the country are worthwhile.

“You become an Influencer to international investors,” he highlights.

Reports Bring Value that Elevate Brands

SME South Africa added research reports to their repertoire because it already provided business owners with content, but the advantage of a data-backed, insight-driven whitepaper  truly elevated the brand to the status of One-stop shop for South African small to medium enterprises that educates relevant stakeholders about a particular topic. Furthermore, it communicates  that not only could SME South Africa understand the pain points of its audience, but it could also assist clients with bringing the right solutions to entrepreneurs because it truly cares about its cause.

Industry Research Positions Brands as Thought Leaders

The SME Funding Landscape Report Aims to Address Challenges

“Since we have over a decade’s experience in the small-business industry, we are uniquely positioned in our niche to access South African SMEs,” Bosega adds.  “We work with strategic specialists to research specific pain points. Our research partner is In On Africa, an experienced research and analysis company with Africa-focused intelligence.”

Currently, SME South Africa and In On Africa are collaborating once again on multiple research projects for popular brands, one of which is the SME Funding Landscape Report for South Africa. While the study is underway, there is a survey being circulated to gather outstanding data from funders and business owners.

“It’s important that we understand the funding gap for South African SMEs and help to develop solutions to address it.”

The SME Funding Landscape Report will provide insight on the amount of available funds through the existing funders, access to funding or information about funding, how SMMEs can find the right lender, explain why applications are declined, ensure they are compliant and how to accurately complete their financial documents.

SMEs and industry role players can expect the results to be delivered in Bosega’s welcome address at the first ever SME South Africa Funding Summit. This event brings SMMEs and funding-related role-players together to create a space for dialogue between SMEs and industry stakeholders such as funders. Funders and financial institutions, on the other hand, have the opportunity to engage with SMEs to understand their needs better.

 

ALX Accelerates PYEI’S Youth Employment Mission through Tech Training

ALX Accelerates PYEI'S Youth Employment Mission through Tech Training
A student stuying at the ALX Tech Hub in Braamfontein JHB

Following yesterday’s release of the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI) Q3 Report showing over 53,379 new earning opportunities created, ALX South Africa reinforces its intensified commitment to addressing South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis through digital skills training.

The PYEI report highlights that 1.57 million opportunities have been created since the program’s inception, with a particular focus on equipping young people with the skills and resources necessary to succeed in the labour market. Building on this momentum, ALX South Africa, a leading tech-training career accelerator, is providing youths with in-demand tech skills and professional development, particularly in high-growth areas like software engineering, data science, and artificial intelligence.

“The PYEI’s success in creating pathways to employment through initiatives like the Jobs Boost Outcomes Fund demonstrates the impact of innovative approaches. ALX’s model aligns with this vision, creating an environment where South Africa’s young people can network and develop both technical and soft skills essential for the workplace,” says Divesh Sooka, ALX South Africa General Manager.

“We’re not just training students—we’re building futures,” Sooka emphasises. “Our approach complements the PYEI’s strategy by focusing on demand-led training and sustainable employment pathways.”

While the latest PYEI report shows significant progress, South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis remains critical. According to Statistics South Africa’s latest figures, over 45% of all young people between the ages of 15 and 34 are unemployed, higher than the national average of just under a third.

Image of young male studying

“The crisis extends beyond unemployment figures – it begins at the doors of our tertiary institutions,” adds Sooka. A staggering 97% of young South Africans who applied to study at tertiary education institutions this year will be turned away due to limited capacity. This systematic lockout creates a devastating barrier between talented youth and their future careers, regardless of their potential or ambition.

“While the PYEI’s initiatives are creating vital opportunities, we must also address the fundamental challenge of education access,” says Sooka. “When only 3% of applicants secure university places, we’re not just facing an employment crisis – we’re facing an education emergency that requires immediate, innovative solutions. This is why ALX’s access to digital training has become crucial in bridging the gap between talent and opportunity, offering accessible, industry-relevant training that leads directly to employment possibilities.”

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

“The Jobs Boost Outcomes Fund has demonstrated the effectiveness of outcome-based approaches, with 1,603 young people placed in jobs and 1,247 sustaining employment for three months. Similarly, ALX’s partnership with the Mastercard Foundation enables affordable access to future-fit online courses for just $5, or less than R100,” says Sooka.

“The PYEI’s latest results show what’s possible when we work together. To fully realise our youth’s potential, we need to continue developing creative solutions that create opportunities for all South Africans,” Sooka noted.

Visit https://www.alxafrica.com/south-africa/ to find out more.