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Building Your Digital Business Platform: A Strategic Guide to Technology and Skills

Lungi Sangqu
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Building Your Digital Business Platform: A Strategic Guide to Technology and Skills

Across Africa, organisations are accelerating their digital transformation journeys. Yet many struggle with a fundamental question: where do we start, and what capabilities really matter? Too often, digital transformation is approached as a technology shopping exercise rather than a strategic capability-building journey.

Gartner’s digital business platform framework offers a powerful alternative. It provides a structured, practical roadmap that organises digital transformation around five interconnected areas: customers, partners, employees, things, and intelligence. When understood and applied correctly, this framework enables organisations to build digital capabilities incrementally, aligned to business priorities, while laying a foundation for long-term innovation and growth.

Digital Transformation Is a Platform, Not a Project

At its core, Gartner’s framework recognises that digital transformation is not about implementing a single system or tool. It is about building an integrated digital platform that connects people, processes, data, and physical assets across the organisation and its ecosystem.

The real strength of this approach lies in its flexibility. Organisations do not need to “boil the ocean” by building everything at once. Instead, they can start with the capabilities that address their most urgent business challenges and expand systematically over time.

Customers: Designing Seamless Digital Experiences

Digital transformation often begins with the customer, and for good reason. Technologies such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems, digital experience platforms, mobile applications, e-commerce solutions, and conversational AI enable organisations to engage customers consistently across channels.

However, technology alone does not deliver great customer experiences. Organisations must also build skills in customer journey design, digital marketing, data privacy compliance, and service design. Equally important are soft skills such as empathy, collaboration between business and technical teams, and an agile mindset that supports continuous improvement.

Partners: Building Digital Ecosystems

No organisation operates in isolation. Digital platforms increasingly extend beyond enterprise boundaries to include suppliers, distributors, and strategic partners. B2B portals, supply chain management systems, APIs, and collaboration platforms enable seamless data exchange and coordination across partner networks.

To succeed, organisations need more than integration technology. They require strong capabilities in ecosystem strategy, contract and performance management, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. Trust, negotiation, and cross-cultural communication are critical soft skills in digitally enabled partnerships, particularly in complex African supply chains.

Employees: Empowering the Digital Workforce

Digital transformation fails when employees are treated as an afterthought. Modern organisations require digitally enabled, engaged, and continuously learning workforces. Human capital management systems, collaboration tools, learning platforms, and workflow automation solutions are foundational technologies in this area.

Yet the real differentiator lies in skills. Change management, employee experience design, leadership in hybrid environments, and workforce analytics are essential business capabilities. Soft skills such as empathy, communication, coaching, and adaptability are increasingly central to performance in digitally transformed organisations.

Things: Connecting the Physical and Digital Worlds

For sectors such as logistics, energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure, digital transformation extends into the physical world. Internet of Things (IoT) platforms, sensor networks, asset management systems, and predictive maintenance solutions connect physical assets to digital intelligence.

These technologies unlock operational efficiency, safety, and cost optimisation, but they also introduce complexity. Organisations must develop skills that bridge IT and operational technology, manage cyber risk in connected environments, and translate data insights into operational decisions. Systems thinking and collaboration between engineers and digital teams are critical enablers.

Intelligence: Turning Data into Decisions

Data and analytics sit at the heart of every digital business platform. Business intelligence tools, data platforms, artificial intelligence, and automation technologies enable organisations to move from descriptive reporting to predictive and prescriptive decision-making.

However, analytics only creates value when aligned to business strategy. Skills in data storytelling, KPI design, ethical AI, and decision science are just as important as data engineering and machine learning expertise. Leaders must foster a culture that values evidence-based decision-making and responsible data use.

Foundational Capabilities That Cut Across the Platform

Supporting all five areas are foundational technologies such as cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, integration platforms, DevOps practices, identity management, and API governance. These are not optional technical considerations; they are strategic enablers of scale, resilience, and trust.

Equally important are universal skills in digital technologies, digital strategy development, change management, governance, and cross-functional leadership. Digital transformation is as much an organisational challenge as it is a technical one.

A Phased Approach to Capability Building

Successful organisations approach digital transformation in phases:

  1. Assess and prioritise by aligning digital initiatives to business value.
  2. Build foundations through core infrastructure, governance, and early wins.
  3. Scale and integrate capabilities across the enterprise and ecosystem.
  4. Optimise and innovate by leveraging data, platforms, and partnerships.

This disciplined approach reduces risk while creating momentum and organisational confidence.

The African Opportunity

African organisations face unique constraints, from infrastructure variability to skills shortages. Yet these challenges also create powerful opportunities. Mobile-first strategies, cloud-based platforms, remote work models, and vibrant local innovation ecosystems allow African businesses to leapfrog legacy constraints and build future-ready digital platforms.

Digital transformation in Africa is not only about competitiveness. It is about inclusion, resilience, and economic growth.

Building the Future, Systematically

Digital transformation is not a destination; it is a continuous journey of capability building. Gartner’s five-area framework provides a clear, practical lens for making deliberate, value-driven choices about technology and skills.

Ultimately, sustainable success comes from the combination of the right technologies, skilled people, effective processes, and a supportive culture. Organisations that invest systematically across customers, partners, employees, things, and intelligence build platforms that do more than digitise operations, they enable long-term relevance and growth in a rapidly changing digital economy.

About the Author:

Lungi Sangqu is CEO of Africa Digital Success and a digital transformation executive with 30 years of IT leadership experience across public sector, banking, logistics, and education. She has served as CIO at Transnet Freight Rail and University of South Africa, managing multi-billion rand technology transformations. She now focuses on making enterprise-level digital strategies accessible to South African MSMEs.

 

Top trends set to reshape logistics in 2026

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Top trends set to reshape logistics in 2026

Businesses that rely on the movement of goods are preparing for yet another year of transformative change. Shifts in technology, geopolitics, climate impact and customer expectations are redefining how supply chains operate, and companies that build resilience now will be better positioned to compete.

This is according to Nelson Teixeira, managing director of operations for Sub-Saharan Africa at FedEx, who notes that the pace of transformation is accelerating. “We are seeing major shifts converge at the same time, reshaping the delivery and logistics landscape. Businesses that understand the trends early will be better equipped to adapt, protect continuity and manage costs in a more unpredictable environment.”

AI and automation are enabling smarter networks and faster decisions

Artificial intelligence (AI), automation and predictive routing tools are becoming central to logistics planning. These technologies improve visibility, optimise resource use and allow faster decision-making when conditions change.

AI is no longer a behind-the-scenes efficiency tool. AI is giving us earlier warning signs of disruption and a clearer line-of-sight into network performance. It helps organisations respond faster and gives businesses more reliable information to plan around. Companies that align their inventory cycles and customer commitments to these predictive insights will operate with far more agility.

Geopolitical uncertainty is reshaping supply chains and regional hubs

Global instability continues to influence sourcing decisions, routing options, and cost structures. International corporations are diversifying supplier bases and relying more on regional hubs to manage risk.

Teixeira says this trend is particularly important for South African businesses that move goods across multiple borders. “We are seeing more companies build flexibility into their supply chains by developing alternative routes and sourcing options. A resilient regional network can absorb shocks when international routes are disrupted, which is becoming essential in today’s trading environment.”

Extreme weather is putting pressure on delivery reliability

Weather-related disruption has become more frequent, from severe storms to heat-related infrastructure strain. Parts of South Africa recently experienced one of the wettest Octobers on record, with parts of the country reporting double and triple the average rainfall. These harsh conditions challenge delivery schedules and increase the operational complexity of managing routes safely.

“Extreme weather is no longer a rare event,” notes Texeira. “It is something every business has to factor into its operations. The more adaptable your logistics routes are, and the faster your provider can redirect shipments, the more resilient your operations will be.”

Demand for more sustainable operations is accelerating

Sustainability has moved beyond compliance. Customers across consumer and business markets are expecting more sustainable delivery options, and logistics providers are scaling up investment in fuel-efficient fleets, alternative energy solutions and carbon measurement tools.

“Our goal at FedEx is to transform our entire global pickup and delivery fleet to zero-emission electric vehicles by 2040,” says Teixeira, who notes that FedEx has also introduced new tools and product designs to support more sustainable behaviours. “Customers want to understand the environmental impact of their shipments, and many are building sustainability metrics into procurement decisions. The FedEx Sustainability Insights Tool, for example, allows customers to access estimated CO2 equivalent emissions data for their shipments.”

Sustainability has become integral to long-term competitiveness. Businesses that work with logistics partners offering more sustainable solutions will align more easily with evolving customer expectations and regulatory pressures.

While the pressures are significant, Teixeira emphasizes that the year ahead offers opportunities for early adapters. Logistics has become a strategic function rather than a back-end cost. By planning proactively, reviewing risks regularly, and collaborating closely with logistics partners, businesses can improve reliability and strengthen their competitive position in 2026.

Facing school costs when dealing with debt: Careful planning is crucial

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Facing school costs when dealing with debt: Careful planning is crucial

Education is one of the most important investments a family can make, but the costs can be prohibitive. School fees, uniforms, textbooks, transport, sports, extra lessons, and other activities can leave families out of pocket, and parents overwhelmed.

To worsen the situation, more than a third of South Africans spend up to 40% of their take-home income on debt repayments, as revealed in JustMoney’s recent survey, Money & Me. This increases the pressure and leaves less money for essential education expenses.

The survey findings also underscored the struggle to meet basic needs. If given R1,000, 75% of women and 67% of men would spend it on groceries, while 15% would spend it on paying off debt, bills, and school expenses, along with saving.

Against this backdrop of debt and stretched household budgets, planning for good education requires careful consideration. Affording quality schooling is less about last-minute scrambling, and more about deliberate preparation, disciplined budgeting, and making informed choices well in advance.

JustMoney investigates schooling options, and offers tips on budgeting, saving, and investing for education.

Nationwide schooling costs

Stats SA conducts annual education research in two parts:

  • Education price index (EPI). This calculation is based on a basket of education-related items such as school fees, textbooks, uniforms, and stationery.
  • School fees. This takes only tuition and levies into account. It excludes costs such as textbooks, uniforms, and transport.

The overall EPI increased by 4.5% in 2025, while school fees increased by 5%.

The 2025 increases were lower than the previous year, but many families, across all income groups, still struggle to cover education fees, says Sarah Nicholson, head of customer experience at JustMoney.

According to Stats SA’s 2023 General Household Survey, there were around 15.4 million school learners in 2023. Learners who dropped out before they turned 18 cited poor performance (29.1%) and lack of money (19.5%) as the main reasons.

Schooling choices

Most families choose between government (public) schools, private day schools, and private boarding schools. Online education has also gained popularity since the Covid-19 pandemic.

  1. Government (public) schools

Government schools are classified into no-fee schools, fee-charging schools, and those serving learners who have disabilities or special needs.

Two-thirds of learners attend no-fee schools, according to Stats SA’s 2023 General Household Survey. This ranges from 87% in Limpopo to 51% in the Western Cape.

Costs for fee-paying schools vary by province and institution, but parents pay, on average, R24,000 a year for primary school and R36,000 for high school.

  1. Independent/private day schools

Fees vary widely. Private primary school fees average R66,000 to R72,000 per year, with high school fees averaging R100,000 to R105,000 per year. Many elite schools charge considerably more.

  1. Boarding schools

Annual boarding and school tuition packages at more expensive schools can total well over R200,000 a year, with top-tier institutions charging steep fees.

Michaelhouse boys’ school in KZN charged R392,000 for annual board and tuition in 2025. Their voluntary development levy was R6,470, while their non-refundable acceptance fee was R75,000 for a South African resident, and R196,000 for a non-resident, of which R73,000 was refundable at completion of schooling.

  1. Online schooling

Virtual schools and online programmes offer the freedom of online learning while keeping students on track with a clear, organised curriculum. Qualified educators follow a set timetable, lead live classes, and manage assessments.

According to the admissions team at Teneo online school, 2026 monthly fees for Grade R and Grade 1 are R4,800 per month for live online classes, and R3,800 per month for a mix of live online classes and pre-recorded sessions. Fees cover the full curriculum, access to learning materials, and support from qualified teachers.

School fees made manageable

“Careful planning and disciplined budgeting are essential if education fees and related costs are to align with your family’s financial goals,” says Nicholson, who offers the following tips.

  1. Start with a realistic budget.List annual school costs for each child: tuition/school fees, uniforms, textbooks and stationery, transport, meals, extra-curricular activities, technology, school trips, extra tutoring, and a contingency sum for unexpected costs.

Spreading school fees over monthly or termly payments can ease pressure on household cash flow and reduce the need to rely on credit during the year.

However, where families can pay annual fees upfront, settling the full amount can be financially worthwhile, as many schools offer discounts for early or lump-sum payments. The best choice depends on your income pattern, savings buffer and ability to absorb high one-off costs without jeopardising day-to-day expenses.

  1. Explorefinancial support.Check for bursaries, sibling discounts, and payment plans with the school’s finance office. Note application deadlines and do your homework, as competition can be fierce. Good household records not only help with family budgeting, but are handy when you apply for means-tested support.
  2. Cut costs.Shop for second-hand uniforms and sports equipment, explore shared transport, and evaluate whether private tutoring or additional classes are necessary.
  3. Maximise loyalty points.Stretch your school budget and support your school by making the most of store and loyalty point programmes.

School-Days®, for example, is a digital platform where you nominate a beneficiary to receive Education Time Points (ETPs), with each ETP valued at R1. Buy, earn, or win ETPs by spending and engaging with platform partners, or through Plan to Pay, a partnership with Standard Bank. Standard Bank UCount Rewards points can be converted into ETPs.

Long-term planning

If you aim to build an education fund, options include the following.

  • Tax-free savings accounts. Open an account for yourself, or in your child’s name, and all investment growth ‒ interest, dividends, and capital gains ‒ is tax exempt. The annual contribution limit is R36,000 per tax year, with a lifetime limit of R500,000.
  • Unit trusts/managed funds. These can generate higher returns, but with greater market risk. They best suit those who won’t need the money for several years.
  • Fixed-term deposits or notice accounts. These are generally more conservative, with lower risk and returns.
  • Insurers’ education savings plans or endowments. These long-term savings products help parents save regularly for school and tertiary costs. You pay set contributions over a fixed term, usually five years or more, and receive a lump sum at maturity. These plans often combine investment growth with life cover, providing financial protection should you die before the policy reaches maturity. Read fee and surrender rules carefully.

“The cost of education can be daunting, but planning helps reduce the pressure, especially at a time when many households are already under financial strain,” concludes Nicholson.

“The earlier families think ahead and start preparing, the less likely they are to rely on debt to fund schooling.

“If you’re saving for several children, planning for private or tertiary education, or considering offshore education options, it’s advisable to consult a qualified financial planner who understands education funding and the South African tax and regulatory environment.”

‘New year, new me’ done right: how to spot crash diets before they cause harm

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‘New year, new me’ done right: how to spot crash diets before they cause harm

January is often seen as a time to reset health goals, but it is also when crash diets and fads flood social feeds and friends and family share well-meaning advice without proper medical backing.

Dr Tommie Smook, Medical and Holistic Wellness Expert at Dr Smook and Partners, managed by RxME, cautions that sustainable weight loss and wellness are not built through deprivation or harmful quick-fix solutions. “A meaningful reset starts with understanding your body, health risks, and individual needs, then committing to changes that can be sustained beyond January.

“Generic New Year resolutions treat everyone the same, even though no two bodies respond in the same way,” he continues. “If you’re serious about weight loss and overall health, the first step is to understand your own body. Medical assessments provide a safer starting point by establishing a personal health baseline.”

Tests such as blood glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure, and body composition offer insight into metabolic health and factors that affect weight loss. Without these, even seemingly sensible diets can do more harm than good.

“Once people understand their own health markers, it becomes clear why one-size-fits-all advice often fails. A plan that works for a friend or influencer may be wrong for another person’s body. This is where many New Year resolutions fall apart – people commit to programmes that were never designed for them.”

With that in mind, Dr Smook says there are clear warning signs that a diet doing the rounds is less about health and more about quick, unsustainable results.

Five ways to tell if a diet is legitimate or just another crash plan:

  1. It promises rapid weight loss, usually in a short timeframe, rather than gradual improvement with concerted daily effort and multiple components working in unison.
  2. It removes entire food groups without medical testing or clinical justification. To function properly, and in support of healthy weight-loss, the body needs carbohydrates, fats, and protein. Cutting any of these too aggressively can strain normal metabolism, disrupt energy levels, and make long-term adherence to a diet unlikely, especially without medical oversight.
  3. It relies heavily on drastic detoxes, deprivation tactics or generic supplements not specifically aligned with your needs instead of balanced, repeatable eating and exercise habits. These approaches often bypass normal digestive and metabolic processes, create artificial short-term changes in weight or appetite, and fail to build the nutritional foundation required for sustainable fat-loss and long-term health.
  4. It focuses only on calories or exercise while ignoring the impacts of stress, sleep, and recovery. Weight loss is strongly influenced by hormonal and nervous system regulation, and neglecting these factors can stall progress even when diet and exercise are tightly controlled.
  5. It offers no medical oversight, monitoring or accountability beyond testimonials and before-and-after photos. Without clinical input, warning signs are easily missed, risks go unmanaged, and individuals are left to self-correct when results plateau or health concerns arise.

A healthier way forward

Dr Smook and Partners, managed by RxME, encourages people to approach weight loss and wellness as a long-term commitment rather than a quick fix. Professionally guided programmes allow for personalised plans, medical supervision, and realistic goals that prioritise safety and accountability.

“It’s also important not to be too hard on yourself. Missing a workout or enjoying an occasional indulgence does not undo progress. It’s staying consistent over time that matters most. Additionally, confidence and mental wellbeing also play a critical role. The Longevity Centre by RxME supports this through safe, professional aesthetic treatments that help people feel comfortable in their changing bodies, creating a more holistic approach to weight loss and overall wellbeing” notes Dr Smook.

Ultimately, a New Year reset should focus on longevity, balance, and informed care. With the right medical guidance, the emphasis shifts away from extremes towards sustainable habits that support health well into the new year and beyond.

Employers aren’t asking where you studied anymore

Jessica Hawkey, MD of redAcademy
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Employers aren’t asking where you studied anymore

The importance of having a university degree to get a job is changing. It would be flippant to declare it dead – companies aren’t abandoning the value of a degree when choosing candidates altogether – but it is no longer the de facto benchmark for talent. Over the past few years, there’s been a rise in skills-based hiring strategies where employers prioritise portfolios and practical experience over formal degrees, particularly for mid-level roles. And the World Economic Forum (WEF) Future of Jobs Report 2025 found that a significant number of South African companies are taking the expectation of a degree out of the application process.

The technology sector is one of those leading this charge. Roles that were once perceived as degree-dependent, like development, quality assurance and cloud infrastructure, are being increasingly filled by candidates who can prove what they know and show how they work. This is one field that is constantly changing with new tools and frameworks emerging at immense speeds, so companies are looking for people who can contribute instantly to the business.

This doesn’t mean that training is dead either. It’s just changing its shape. Learning that takes place too far away from lived environments, tools and delivery pipelines and teams risks becoming irrelevant. A curriculum that stretches over several years may still be academically sound, but by the time it’s over, the job it was aligned to may have changed completely. The Future of Jobs Report 2025 emphasised this point, stating that skills disruption is so high that employers expect 39% of employee core skills to change by 2030.

Employers are paying attention to more than technical ability, they want early career candidates who understand how to contribute to a team, how to communicate, how to remain accountable – people who have insight into what it’s like to operate inside the office. These qualities are consistently influencing hiring decisions and play a defining role in whether or not someone becomes productive early on in their career. Often, people coming straight into the office from university discover that their theoretical understanding has very little relationship to the real world.

In short, it is important to invest in work-aligned learning.

The distinction between exposure and integration is key. Internship models do offer some insight into lived working experiences, but they often lead to limited growth because learners sit on the edges of real growth. Tasks risk being disconnected from actual work requirements and are often more admin-related. They’re exposed to the office, but not integrated within it. Integration models are built on the foundation of output and provide mentoring and measure home learning against real tools and environments. This approach creates pathways that link training directly to industry expectations.

Of course, no discussion about employment is complete without mentioning AI. Many tasks are becoming automated and the role of the human contributor is changing. AI tools can test code, highlight errors and suggest improvements, which really does reduce time spent on repetitive checking. They can also be used to improve learner skillsets so they can step into roles with confidence. The technology doesn’t remove the need for certain roles, it simply changes the skillsets required.

And employers are adapting their talent strategies to fit this new paradigm. Many prefer candidates who have shown commitment to their chosen path. Successful candidates are often those who have researched their chosen field and approached it with intent, showing the qualities companies really want – grit, pride and accountability.

While families still encourage matrics to pursue degrees, it’s an expectation that isn’t really aligning with the current job market anymore. The cost of lengthy degrees and the time required to complete them isn’t returned on the investment as many qualified learners are still searching for roles that match their qualifications. Today, immediate entry into structured, work-aligned programmes provides early exposure to opportunities and a very realistic road to career development.

That alignment between relevance and readiness is what redAcademy focuses on, providing learners with real experience inside delivery environments that mirror the pace and structure of the teams they’ll eventually join. It gives them support and a start that can set them up for life.

Zaria Court Kigali Now Open as Part of Tapestry Collection by Hilton

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Zaria Court Kigali Now Open as Part of Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Zaria Court Kigali is now officially open as part of Tapestry Collection by Hilton, marking a transformative milestone for Rwanda’s first urban lifestyle hotel and reinforcing the nation’s expanding presence in the global hospitality landscape. This new chapter brings together Zaria Court Kigali’s distinctive identity, rooted in authentic African excellence and vibrant local culture, with Hilton’s world-class standards, global reach, and the Hilton Honors loyalty program.

Tapestry Collection by Hilton is a global portfolio of independent hotels, each with an original, vibrant personality. Every hotel’s unique story comes to life through elevated design and food and beverage inspired by the locale, offering guests authentic experiences across an array of destinations worth exploring.

Located in the heart of Kigali Sports City, steps from the 10,000-seat BK Arena and the iconic 45,000-seat Amahoro Stadium, Zaria Court Kigali has redefined hospitality in one of East Africa’s most dynamic capitals. Now part of Tapestry Collection by Hilton, the 80-room property enters an exciting new era, offering guests an elevated experience that blends the spirit of modern Africa with the consistency and service excellence of a globally recognized brand.

A New Chapter for Zaria Court Kigali

Guests at Zaria Court Kigali can enjoy the hotel’s bold contemporary design, Rwandan craftsmanship, and the comfort of Hilton’s trusted brand experience including Digital Key and direct booking perks.

“This is a defining moment for Zaria Court Kigali,” says Masai Ujiri, the Founder of Zaria Group whose vision of African excellence inspired the hotel’s creation. “Just as the hotel’s story began in Zaria, Nigeria, on basketball courts where dreams took flight, today marks another chapter in that journey. We’re proving that African hospitality can lead on the world stage, maintaining our authentic identity while embracing global standards that allow us to serve our guests even better.”

Zaria Court Kigali, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is poised to welcome a broad international audience, from business travelers and sports teams to cultural innovators and leisure guests, while preserving the warm, community-driven atmosphere that defines the property. Guests can now earn and redeem Hilton Honors points while enjoying the hotel’s signature lifestyle offerings – from the rooftop lounge with beautiful views of Kigali Sports City to the Sports Bar featuring 19 large screens and bold African-inspired cuisine.

Elevating the Guest Experience

As a Tapestry Collection by Hilton hotel, Zaria Court Kigali integrates Hilton’s service culture and operational excellence across every touchpoint – from personalized prearrival communications to thoughtful in room amenities designed for comfort and convenience.

The hotel features unique spaces including a heated pool overlooking the multipurpose court, a sophisticated lobby bar, a globally inspired all-day dining restaurant, and a rooftop lounge – perfect for elevated evenings.

Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said, “We are excited to open our first hotel in Rwanda, Zaria Court Kigali, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, which will join Hilton’s growing portfolio in Africa as we plan to nearly triple our presence across the continent in the coming years. Tapestry Collection by Hilton celebrates independent hotels with distinct personalities and strong local connections, and Zaria Court Kigali embodies this perfectly; it’s deeply rooted in Rwandan culture and the energy of Kigali Sports City, while offering the kind of contemporary, lifestyle-focused experience that today’s travelers seek.”

A Destination, Not Just Accommodation

Zaria Court Kigali’s location within a mixed-use sports and entertainment development reinforces its role as a cultural and social hub. The property seamlessly integrates with retail spaces, event facilities, and recreational amenities including a community basketball court and five-a-side football pitch. Guests don’t simply stay at Zaria Court Kigali; they step into the vibrant rhythm of Kigali’s most dynamic district.

The hotel’s meeting and event spaces offer modern projection systems and theatre-style seating for up to 60 guests, with adjacent areas that can accommodate cocktail receptions for 120 people. Whether hosting corporate seminars, intimate gatherings, or celebrating after a concert or game, the spaces embody the property’s philosophy: creating spaces where meaningful connections flourish.

Every element of the property celebrates African innovation and community, be it the locally-crafted artwork adorning the walls or eco-friendly design principles that earned EDGE certification. The hotel features vibrant, locally-inspired interiors showcasing Rwandan craftsmanship and contemporary African art, creating an authentic cultural experience that celebrates the continent’s creative spirit while meeting international standards of comfort and quality.

Zaria Court Kigali, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, offers guests seeking authentic experiences and genuine connections, a memorable, locally-inspired stay. The hotel’s diverse venues create destinations within the destination: the Sports Bar offers an unmatched viewing experience with international football, rugby, F1, and basketball; MANSELA’s All-Day Dining restaurant serves energizing international breakfast buffets alongside vibrant fusion cuisine for lunch and dinner; ANUVO lobby bar provides an intimate spot for coffee breaks and casual meetings; SOLIA pool bar blends relaxation with entertainment, overlooking the multipurpose court where guests might catch a live game while swimming; and The JARO rooftop lounge delivers sophisticated ambiance with crafted cocktails and breathtaking panoramic views.

Future plans include rotating art installations featuring local artisans, curated cultural programming, and expanded partnerships with Rwandan entrepreneurs through the hotel’s retail concepts. The vision remains consistent: creating spaces that inspire the next generation of African leaders while offering world-class hospitality.

Significance for Rwanda’s Hospitality Landscape

The partnership reflects growing international confidence in Rwanda as a premier destination for business, leisure, sports, and lifestyle travel. As one of Africa’s safest countries as per the Global Peace Index 2024 and the first on the continent in Business Readiness according to World Bank’s B-READY 2025 Report, Rwanda has positioned itself at the forefront of the continent’s transformation. Zaria Court Kigali’s integration into Hilton’s globally respected portfolio strengthens Kigali’s hospitality offering and supports the nation’s broader tourism and investment narrative by reinforcing international traveler confidence.

With 70% of Rwanda’s population under 30 and the country experiencing unprecedented investment in sports and entertainment infrastructure, including over $260 million in public and private funding transforming Kigali Sports City, the timing couldn’t be more significant. The hotel sits at the epicenter of Africa’s emerging sports tourism boom, hosting international teams, artists, executives, and fans attending major events at adjacent world-class venues.

Closing 2025 with Momentum

Zaria Court Kigali now offers guests access to Hilton Honors – Hilton’s award-winning loyalty program with over 235 million members and a portfolio of 9,000+ hotels across 25 world-class brands – delivering a richer, more rewarding travel experience.

For travelers seeking experiences that celebrate Africa’s energy, creativity, and forward momentum, Zaria Court Kigali offers a gateway to contemporary Kigali. For Hilton Honors members exploring new destinations, the property presents an opportunity to discover Rwanda’s remarkable hospitality through a distinctive, lifestyle-focused lens. And for Rwanda, this partnership reinforces the nation’s position as a leader in African tourism and hospitality innovation.

St David’s Marist Inanda Matric Class of 2025

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St David’s Marist Inanda Matric Class of 2025

The Executive of St David’s Marist Inanda is incredibly proud to present the excellent results achieved by the Matric Class of 2025. The cohort of 127 boys achieved a 100% pass rate and an impressive 100% Bachelor’s Degree pass, which is a testament to the collective and individual hard work and commitment of the boys.

It is pertinent to acknowledge that this year’s matrics started their high school careers in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic and spent almost 18 months in online or a hybrid of on-campus and online schooling. It is a testament to the school and staff, whose dedication overcame the challenges of the pandemic during those foundational high school years, that every boy still received a quality education and every opportunity to succeed academically and in their personal development.

The boys deserve credit for how they pulled together and supported one another, both during the disruption and after returning to campus. This cohort demonstrated exceptional commitment, taking full advantage of opportunities in sport, culture, leadership and service. Many excelled in multiple areas, truly embracing their St David’s experience and Marist education.

“The strength of the Class of 2025 is in their collective support of each other, highlighted in the rare achievement of every single matriculant obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree pass, qualifying them for university entrance. We couldn’t be prouder of these fine young men who have shown a depth of maturity which manifested in quiet, but strong leadership, determination and immense care for one another and all the boys in the high school. These qualities are ones much needed in our world today, and we have no doubt that they will carry forward into their adult lives the Marist values and formation as St David’s Marist Inanda alumni.” – Mike Thiel, Executive Headmaster

St David’s overall distinction rate among top achievers builds on a strong academic legacy with:

  • One boy achieving 9 Distinctions
  • Seven boys achieving 8 Distinctions
  • 10 boys achieving 7 Distinctions
  • 11 boys achieving 6 Distinctions
  • Two boys achieving 5 Distinctions
  • Six boys achieving 4 Distinctions

Of our top achievers:

  • 3 Boys placed in the IEB Outstanding Achiever category (achieved within the top 5% in 6 or more Subjects and achieved a rating level of 7 in Life Orientation).
  • 3 Boys placed in the IEB Commendable Achiever category (achieved within the top 5% in 5 Subjects and achieved a rating level of 7 in Life Orientation). 19 Top1% of Candidates across 10 subjects was achieved.

It is particularly pleasing to note the overall academic averages, where in the top seven subjects (four core subjects plus three electives), the following were achieved:

  • Eight boys averaged 90% or above
  • Another 27 boys averaged above 80%
  • An additional 46 boys averaged above 70%

Notably, the school achieved a distinction rate of more than 30% in 14 subjects and an above 50% distinction rate in:

  • Engineering Graphics and Design
  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Life Sciences
  • Italian
  • Mathematics
  • Mathematics Literacy
  • Visual Arts

This range of subjects is indicative of the diversity of subjects that the boys have the opportunity to take and excel in, setting them up for successful tertiary careers and lives in which they can follow their passions.

We also extend our congratulations to parents, guardians and extended families – their support, encouragement, guidance and love have enabled these young men to thrive and flourish, and it has been a privilege to share this journey with them.

We thank and congratulate our teachers and extended staff who have worked tirelessly to help these young men reach their full potential. Their commitment and passion for education, as well as their personal investment in each of these young men’s lives, are greatly appreciated.

Beyond showcasing our top achievers, we celebrate the unique journey of every student. Each boy has overcome his own specific challenges. We are incredibly proud of every one of them and the growth they have shown during their time at St David’s.

ST DAVID’S MARIST INANDA MATRIC 2025 TOP ACHIEVERS

9 DISTINCTIONS 
TARUN VEMPATI 9 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS 

92% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

IEB Outstanding Achiever

Top 1% of Candidates in English, Information Technology & Mathematics

Afrikaans FAL
Business Studies
English HL
Information Technology
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
FS Mathematics
8 DISTINCTIONS
FAYZAN ADROOS 8 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS 

 89% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Afrikaans FAL
Business Studies
English HL
History
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
BRETT BULGER  8 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

87% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Accounting
Afrikaans FAL
English HL
History
Life Orientation
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
FS Mathematics
MAXIMILIAN (MAX) CROLL  8 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

88% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

IEB Commendable Achiever

Top 1% of Candidates in Information Technology

 

Afrikaans FAL
Computer Applications Technology
English HL
History
Information Technology
Life Orientation
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
Plus a distinction in FS Mathematics Elective (Statistics)
MATTHEW DYER  8 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

90% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Top 1% of Candidates in Life Sciences

 

 English HL
Information Technology
Isizulu FAL
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
FS Mathematics
PANAYIOTI

HAJICHRISTOFOROU 

8 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

88% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Accounting
Afrikaans FAL
Engineering Graphics And Design
English HL
Life Orientation
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
FS Mathematics
DOMINIC TAYLOR  8 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

91% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

IEB Outstanding Achiever

Top 1% of Candidates in Life Sciences

Afrikaans FAL
English HL
Geography
History
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
JONATHAN WENTWORTH  8 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

92% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

IEB Outstanding Achiever

Top 1% of Candidates in Business Studies

Accounting
Afrikaans FAL
Business Studies
English HL
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics
Physical Sciences

 

7 DISTINCTIONS
ERIK ARWIDI  7 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

85% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Accounting
Afrikaans FAL
Geography
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
SAMRAT BASU 7 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

90% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Accounting
Afrikaans FAL
Business Studies
English HL
Life Orientation
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
WARWICK BRADFORD  7 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

86% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Computer Applications Technology
Engineering Graphics And Design
Geography
Information Technology
Life Orientation
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
MATHEW FREED 7 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

92% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

IEB  Commendable Achiever

Top 1% of Candidates in Accounting, Business Studies,

Mathematics & Physical Sciences

 

 Accounting
Afrikaans FAL
Business Studies
English HL
Life Orientation
Mathematics
Physical Sciences

 

BRENDAN HOPE 7 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

88% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Top 1% of Candidates in Life Sciences

Afrikaans FAL
English HL
History
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
DAVID KALIL 7 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

90% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Top 1% of Candidates in Life Sciences

Accounting
Afrikaans FAL
English HL
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
 

DOES NOT WANT TO PARTICIPATE IN MEDIA
OPPORTUNITIES
JAYDEN KNOTT-BEUKES  7 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

92% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

IEB Commendable Achiever

Top 1% of Candidates in EGD, Information Technology,

Mathematics & Physical Sciences

Afrikaans FAL
Engineering Graphics And Design
Information Technology
Life Orientation
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
FS Mathematics

DOES NOT WANT TO PARTICIPATE IN MEDIA
OPPORTUNITIES
FABRIZIO LATTUCA  7 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

84% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Afrikaans FAL
English HL
Geography
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics
Physical Sciences

 

 

OLIVER MASKELL 7 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

86% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Top 1% of Candidates in History & Mathematical Literacy

Afrikaans FAL
Computer Applications Technology
English HL
History
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematical Literacy
VALENTINO YIALLOURIS 7 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

86% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Accounting
Afrikaans FAL
Engineering Graphics And Design
English HL
Life Orientation
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
6 DISTINCTIONS
JAMES ASKEW 6 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

84% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Accounting
Afrikaans FAL
Engineering Graphics And Design
Life Orientation
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
MARCO BITTER 6 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

84% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Business Studies
Dramatic Arts
English HL
History
Life Orientation
Mathematics

 

SOHAM SINGH GOKUL  6 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

85% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Accounting
English HL
History
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics
ETHAN GREENSTEIN  6 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

86% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Accounting
Afrikaans FAL
Business Studies
English HL
Life Orientation
Mathematics
Plus a distinction in FS Mathematics Elective (Calculus & Algebra)
THEMBA GWABE 6 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

81% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Business Studies
English HL
History
Isizulu FAL
Life Orientation
FS English
SHAUN HSU  6 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

86% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Afrikaans FAL
English HL
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics
Physical Sciences

 

NICOLAS JANSEN VAN RENSBURG 6 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

83% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Afrikaans FAL
Engineering Graphics And Design
Geography
Information Technology
Life Orientation
Mathematics
CRUZ KING 6 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

88% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Accounting
Afrikaans FAL
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
LEMUEL MUZAREWETU 6 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

86% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Accounting
Afrikaans FAL
Engineering Graphics And Design
Life Orientation
Mathematics
Physical Sciences
NICOLAI PARAIAN 6 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

84% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

 

 Afrikaans FAL
English HL
Geography
Life Orientation
Life Sciences
Mathematics

 

ALESSIO TOMMASI   6 SUBJECT DISTINCTIONS

82% average (4 core subjects plus 3 top electives)

Afrikaans FAL
Business Studies
English HL
History
Life Orientation
Mathematics

 

A new, new era of intelligent connectivity

LnT Desk
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A new, new era of intelligent connectivity
Wi-Fi 7 marks a generational leap in wireless technology but its impact on Africa will depend on how the industry and service providers transform its capability into accessibility, says Craig Blignaut Product Manager Wi-Fi at Vox.
There have been six generations of Wi-Fi, until now. The new, seventh generation has been labelled a revolution and is a response to the bandwidth-hungry modern world. Its official standard, IEE 802.11be, delivers extremely high throughput and brings capabilities that move wireless connectivity from speed to intelligent orchestration.
Wi-Fi 7 combines multiple technologies that together redefine performance. Multi-Link Operation (MLO), which allows a device to transmit and receive data simultaneously over several frequency bands, reducing latency and congestion, is one of them. The other is 4096-QAM (4k0-QAM) modulation which increases data density by around 20% compared with Wi-Fi 6. Add in channel bandwidths of up to 320 MHz, which is double that of its predecessor, and the theoretical throughput rises to nearly 30 Gbps under ideal conditions.
However, in practical terms, Wi-Fi 7 needs to do more than draw a long list of features. It needs to deliver on connectivity. It needs to connect hundreds of people in one office and ensure they all have a good experience because that is the metric that matters.
Fortunately, part of the reason why Wi-Fi 7 is such a strong contender in the race for the ultimate connection is because it can handle demand. Earlier versions of Wi-Fi were built around single connections and sequential traffic but Wi-Fi7 introduces the ability to send and receive data across multiple frequency bands at the same time. The technology allows devices to travel between the 2.4GHz, 5GHz and new 6GHz bands depending on congestion, creating a simultaneous conversation between devices and the router. The result is faster data transfer and fewer interruptions within an invisible layer of intelligence that keeps connections alive, even when one channel falters.
The other advance is how networks now think about power. Every generation since Wi-Fi 4 has improved on energy use, but Wi-Fi 7 takes it further. The system is using less power to deliver faster, well, everything. The new modulation systems amplify the signal more efficiently while consuming less energy. It’s a detail that matters in a country where loadshedding and voltage dips are part of everyday connectivity.
From a consumer perspective, the upgrade will be largely invisible. Modern laptops and smartphones are already shipping with Wi-Fi 7 capability and most new routers already support the standard. Backward-compatible by design, Wi-Fi 7 also sidesteps many of the issues that have affected moving from one standard to another in the past. It ensures older devices still function optimally while new ones extract more value from the same network. The goal of the new design is to take the stress out – people don’t need to manage the transition.
The seamlessness has been decades in the making. From the soon-to-end-forever scream of dial-up of the early 2000s to today’s low-latency, multi-device environments, the network and its technology have evolved into the nervous system of modern life. Wi-Fi 7 makes it possible to sustain 8K streaming, real-time VR gaming and enterprise-grade video conferencing on wireless alone. It is also, for gamers and tech enthusiasts, the first real step towards a wireless experience that can compete with LAN.
Still, the biggest leap may be in Wi-Fi’s brand. For many, it has long been a source of invisible and temperamental frustration which was easy to blame when performance dipped. Wi-Fi 7 aims to change the story by embedding intelligence deep within the architecture itself. It is capable of automatically selecting cleaner channels, balancing connections across frequencies and self-correcting interference. The effect is subtle, but users will experience fewer glitches, steadier calls and smoother video.
Adoption, however, isn’t going to happen immediately. Wi-Fi relies on standards on both sides of the ecosystem to mature. While access points may already support the technology, end-user devices need to catch up before its full potential can be felt. It’s an ecosystem which relies on full adoption only once every part of it speaks the same language. This could take up to another two years although early adopters will find themselves futureproofed when the next wave of hardware arrives.
As Wi-Fi 7 becomes increasingly available across South Africa, companies can benefit from its performance and predictability almost immediately. The key is to collaborate with a company that already sits at the intersection of these technologies, balancing new standards against the realities of South African power and requirements. As networking continues to empower companies, they need a partner that can empower their transition to the new, new era of connectivity.

South African Girls Shine at the 17th Annual International Junior Miss Competition in Orlando, Florida USA

LnT Desk
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South African Girls Shine at the 17th Annual International Junior Miss Competition in Orlando, Florida USA

South African talent continues to make waves on the international stage as young girls from across the country shine at the prestigious International Junior Miss modelling competition. IJMSA marked the start of 2026 with a touch of elegance, glitz and glamour by sending eight South African contestants to compete at the International Junior Miss competition in Orlando Florida, USA where they achieved remarkable success.

Among the highlights:

  • 7yr old Elihle Mthembu from Johannesburg South won the title International Junior Miss Princess
  • 9yr Old Phagamiso Napo from Limpopo placed 4th runner up in the Jr Pre-Teen division
  • 12yr old Ndalo Mabena from Mpumalanga placed 3rd runner up in the Pre-teen Division
  • 12yr old Boitumelo Mathibela from the Free State, 15yr old Atlegang Ntike from Limpopo,

16yrs old Thato Letlatsa from Johannesburg west and 30yr old Refilwe Mangope from Johannesburg West Obtained Top 12 placing in their respective categories

  • 23yr Old Reamogetse Mangope from Johannesburg west and 24yr old Lesedi Sekgaphane from Pretoria received numerous awards.
  • All the contestants took home various awards. Their success at the event has not only brought pride to South Africa but also opened doors to international job opportunities, marking a significant milestone in the country’s rapidly growing development in the global presence in the pageantry, fashion and entertainment industries.

IJMSA broke new ground by hosting the 4th Annual National International Junior Miss South Africa aboard the luxurious MSC Cruise from 16–20 December 2024. This innovative event brought together 100 girls from various provinces within South Africa, who competed for prestigious titles while enjoying the unique experience of a cruise. Six talented winners were crowned. The MSC Cruise event was a memorable and unforgettable experience for all participants and their families, elegantly blending the excitement of a pageant with the adventure of a world-class cruise, marking a milestone moment in IJMSA’s journey.

Past Successes: Regional Events in North West, KZN, Gauteng and Western Cape

Over the years, IJMSA has built a solid reputation for hosting successful regional events in various provinces across South Africa promoting local travel and tourism amongst the hundreds of contestants and their families. In previous years, the pageant was held in North West, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and Western Cape, each time attracting outstanding talent and showcasing the diversity and talent of South Africa’s young girls. These events have been a growth platform for many of the contestants who have gone on to make their mark both locally and internationally, further elevating the profile of South African youth on the global stage.

Entries are open for the 6th Annual International Junior Miss South Africa which will take place in Mpumalanga this year. 

Looking ahead, entries are now open for the 6th Annual International Junior Miss South Africa competition, which will be hosted in the stunning Province of Mpumalanga this year. After successful events in North West, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and Western Cape.

IJMSA is excited to bring this prestigious event to Mpumalanga, providing even more young girls the opportunity to showcase their talents and achieve their dreams. This year’s line of activities promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with empowerment, confidence-building activities, mental health awareness, digital skills and a chance for girls aged 4yrs to 39yrs to shine and show off their skills” says Tidimalo Tlhabi the Founder of IJMSA. It’s a unique opportunity for South African youth to develop their skills, gain exposure in the pageantry world, and become a part of a supportive community of like-minded young women.

Forces including extreme densification, gigawatt scaling, and data centre as unit of compute are driving these trends

LnT Desk
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Forces including extreme densification, gigawatt scaling, and data centre as unit of compute are driving these trends

Data centre innovation is continuing to be shaped by macro forces and technology trends related to AI, according to a report from Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), a global leader in critical digital infrastructure. The Vertiv™ Frontiers report, which draws on expertise from across the organisation, details the technology trends driving current and future innovation, from powering up for AI, to digital twins, to adaptive liquid cooling.

“The data centre industry is continuing to rapidly evolve how it designs, builds, operates and services data centres, in response to the density and speed of deployment demands of AI factories,” said Vertiv chief product and technology officer, Scott Armul. “We see cross-technology forces, including extreme densification, driving transformative trends such as higher voltage DC power architectures and advanced liquid cooling that are important to deliver the gigawatt scaling that is critical for AI innovation. On-site energy generation and digital twin technology are also expected to help to advance the scale and speed of AI adoption.”

The Vertiv Frontiers report builds on and expands Vertiv’s previous annual Data Centre Trends predictions. The report identifies macro forces driving data centre innovation: extreme densification – accelerated by AI and HPC workloads; gigawatt scaling at speed – data centres are now being deployed rapidly and at unprecedented scale; data centre as a unit of compute – the AI era requires facilities to be built and operated as a single system; and silicon diversification – data centre infrastructure must adapt to an increasing range of chips and compute.

The report details how these macro forces have in turn shaped five key trends impacting specific areas of the data centre landscape.

  1. Powering up for AI

Most current data centres still rely on hybrid AC/DC power distribution from the grid to the IT racks, which includes three to four conversion stages and some inefficiencies. This existing approach is under strain as power densities increase, largely driven by AI workloads. The shift to higher voltage DC architectures enables significant reductions in current, size of conductors, and number of conversion stages while centralising power conversion at the room level. Hybrid AC and DC systems are pervasive, but as full DC standards and equipment mature, higher voltage DC is likely to become more prevalent as rack densities increase. On-site generation, and microgrids, will also drive adoption of higher voltage DC.

  1. Distributed AI

The billions of dollars invested into AI data centres to support large language models (LLMs) to date have been aimed at supporting widespread adoption of AI tools by consumers and businesses. Vertiv believes AI is becoming increasingly critical to businesses but how, and from where, those inference services are delivered will depend on the specific requirements and conditions of the organisation. While this will impact businesses of all types, highly regulated industries, such as finance, defence, and healthcare, may need to maintain private or hybrid AI environments via on-premise data centres, due to data residency, security, or latency requirements. Flexible, scalable high-density power and liquid cooling systems could enable capacity through new builds or retrofitting of existing facilities.

  1. Energy autonomyaccelerates

Short-term on-site energy generation capacity has been essential for most standalone data centres for decades, to support resiliency. However, widespread power availability challenges are creating conditions to adopt extended energy autonomy, especially for AI data centres. Investment in on-site power generation, via natural gas turbines and other technologies, does have several intrinsic benefits but is primarily driven by power availability challenges. Technology strategies such as Bring Your Own Power (and Cooling) are likely to be part of ongoing energy autonomy plans.

  1. Digital twin-driven design and operations

With increasingly dense AI workloads and more powerful GPUs also come a demand to deploy these complex AI factories with speed. Using AI-based tools, data centres can be mapped and specified virtually, via digital twins, and the IT and critical digital infrastructure can be integrated, often as prefabricated modular designs, and deployed as units of compute, reducing time-to-token by up to 50%. This approach will be important to efficiently achieving the gigawatt-scale buildouts required for future AI advancements.

  1. Adaptive, resilient liquid cooling

AI workloads and infrastructure have accelerated the adoption of liquid cooling. But conversely, AI can also be used to further refine and optimise liquid cooling solutions. Liquid cooling has become mission-critical for a growing number of operators but AI could provide ways to further enhance its capabilities. AI, in conjunction with additional monitoring and control systems, has the potential to make liquid cooling systems smarter and even more robust by predicting potential failures and effectively managing fluid and components. This trend should lead to increasing reliability and uptime for high value hardware and associated data/workloads.

Vertiv does business in more than 130 countries, delivering critical digital infrastructure solutions to data centres, communication networks, and commercial and industrial facilities worldwide. The company’s comprehensive portfolio spans power management, thermal management, and IT infrastructure solutions and services – from the cloud to the network edge. This integrated approach enables continuous operations, optimal performance, and scalable growth for customers navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape.

For more information on Vertiv solutions or Vertiv™ Frontiers data centre trends predictions, visit Vertiv.com.

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