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The New Rules of Search: How South African Brands Can Adapt in 2025

By
Rishkah Adams, Senior Analyst, VML South Africa
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The New Rules of Search: How South African Brands Can Adapt in 2025
Rishkah-Adams-Senior-Analyst-VML-South-Africa

Online search is undergoing a major transformation, driven by AI advancements, changing user behaviour, and the rise of alternative search platforms. For South African brands to stay visible, they must understand these shifts and how to optimise content accordingly.

Sometime in the last two decades, the phrase “look it up” was replaced in the global lexicon with the term “google” – a word that had not previously been a verb until popular discourse decided to make it one. Google had become almost synonymous with online search. And as online search slowly, then quickly, replaced other sources of information – RIP phone books, dictionaries and encyclopedias – Google became synonymous with finding information.

Recently, however, the Godfather of Search has begun to lose market share. While Google is still dominant, alternative search platforms are emerging, and search habits are evolving. AI-generated search experiences are redefining engagement, and search success metrics are changing.

In this newly diversified landscape, the rules of search engine optimisation (SEO) as we knew them no longer apply. Here are five new search rules for South African brands to stay visible in 2025 and beyond.

  1. The Rise of Alternative Search Platforms

For years, Google has been the go-to search engine, but that is changing. More South Africans are turning to platforms like TikTok, Facebook Marketplace, and AI-driven assistants like ChatGPT for search. Pew Research reports that in the US, 17% of adults now use TikTok for news, while in South Africa, platforms like WhatsApp and X have become key sources of information. Meanwhile, major e-commerce players such as Takealot and Checkers Sixty60 are integrating search functionalities that compete with Google.

What South African Brands Should Do:

Think beyond Google: Diversify SEO efforts across local search platforms beyond Google, including social media and e-commerce sites.

Include social search: Search isn’t only about getting customers to a website. Optimise for in-platform search on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook Marketplace using relevant local keywords and engaging content.

Use data: Leverage structured data to ensure local content is easily discoverable across various search platforms.

  1. AI is Reshaping Search Experiences

AI-driven search results are changing how South Africans interact with search engines. Google’s AI-generated overviews are delivering real-time answers, reducing the need for users to click through to websites. A growing number of South Africans are using AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Meta AI for search, bypassing traditional search engines.

What South African Brands Should Do:

Rethink content: Focus on answer-driven content that aligns with AI-generated snippets to maintain visibility.

See what’s coming up: Monitor AI-generated results to ensure local content is being accurately represented.

Use long-tail key phrases: Adapt to conversational search by optimising for long-tail, question-based queries relevant to the South African market.

  1. Search Success Metrics Are Changing

With zero-click searches on the rise, traditional SEO KPIs like organic traffic and search engine results page (SERP) rankings are becoming less reliable indicators of success. Instead, engagement metrics such as time spent on page, brand recall, and conversions are becoming more important in South Africa’s competitive online space.

What South African Brands Should Do:

Embrace new metrics: Reevaluate performance tracking to focus on engagement-driven metrics rather than just rankings.

Use AI for analysis: AI-powered analytics can gain deeper insights into South African user interactions.

Adopt a broader approach: Leverage multi-touch attribution models to understand the full customer journey beyond search rankings.

  1. Evolution of Local Search

Google’s local search features are expanding, giving more prominence to Google Business Profiles and local packs. This means South African businesses must prioritise local SEO to retain visibility in search results. Additionally, local listing platforms like HelloPeter and Business Directory South Africa are becoming critical touchpoints for customer discovery.

What South African Brands Should Do:

Optimise Google Business Profiles: Include accurate, updated information, high-quality images, and customer reviews.

Encourage user-generated content: Reviews and Q&A responses enhance credibility.

Track local search performance: Adapt strategies based on local search trends and competition.

  1. The Integration of Multimedia in Search

Search engines are moving beyond text-based results, incorporating more video, image, and interactive content. Google is experimenting with short-form video results from platforms like TikTok, signaling a shift in how South African content is discovered. Globally and in South Africa, platforms such as YouTube and TikTok are becoming key search engines in their own right.

What South African Brands Should Do:

Make videos for search: Create video-first content optimised for search, including keyword-rich descriptions and transcripts.

Use AI: AI-powered video optimisation tools can enhance discoverability.

Repurpose content: Maximise visibility by repurposing content into multiple formats, such as turning blog posts into videos, infographics, and podcasts.

The rules of search are changing rapidly, and brands that adapt will be at the forefront of this evolution. By diversifying search strategies across multiple platforms, embracing AI-driven content optimisation, and focusing on engagement metrics, South African brands can ensure they stay visible in an evolving digital landscape. Now is the time to rethink search strategies beyond traditional rules of SEO to elevate your brand.

AI as an Equaliser: How Smart Technology is Bridging the Digital Divide

By
Avashnee Moodley, Head of Marketing at OPPO South Africa
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AI as an Equaliser: How Smart Technology is Bridging the Digital Divide
Avashnee Moodley, Head of Marketing at OPPO South Africa
Access to information, education, and opportunity is one of the defining human rights issues of our time. In a world where technology drives economic growth, knowledge-sharing, and social mobility, digital exclusion is no longer just an inconvenience but a barrier to progress. Without access to the internet and digital tools, millions are locked out of education, employment, and essential services, deepening socio-economic inequality.
For decades, access to technology has remained uneven, disproportionately affecting lower-income communities, rural populations, and those with limited digital literacy. In South Africa, high data costs have long made connectivity a privilege rather than a right. However, recent shifts signal progress. This year’s National Budget Speech reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reducing data costs and expanding ICT infrastructure, paving the way for greater digital inclusion.
Affordable internet access is crucial but only part of the solution. Smartphones—often the only gateway to the digital world for millions, must also be affordable, intuitive, and accessible. Yet having a device alone is not enough. This is where AI emerges as a powerful enabler, transforming smartphones into intelligent assistants that break language barriers, enhance digital literacy, and improve accessibility, ensuring no one is left behind in the digital revolution.
Breaking Language Barriers with AI-Powered Translation
In a country as linguistically diverse as South Africa, language can be an unseen barrier to economic and educational access. The dominance of English and a few other major languages in digital spaces means that millions still struggle to engage with online content, official documents, or global marketplaces. AI-powered real-time translation is changing this, enabling users to instantly translate entire screens or selected text into multiple languages—from educational resources to online services.
This shift is not just about convenience; it is about breaking systemic barriers that have long dictated who gets to participate in the digital economy and who is excluded. AI-driven translation ensures that language is no longer a limitation but a bridge that allows people to engage with global knowledge, collaborate across borders, and access previously inaccessible services.
AI Writing Assistance: Empowering Digital Literacy
Literacy remains one of the most significant determinants of economic opportunity, yet millions still struggle with digital communication, professional writing, and access to information. AI-driven writing assistance is a powerful tool for levelling the playing field. It allows users to check grammar, rewrite, condense, extend, or polish their work, and even receive AI-generated summaries of complex documents.
For students, job seekers, and professionals who may not have had access to formal training in written communication, these AI tools serve as virtual mentors, helping them navigate the demands of a digital-first economy. The ability to communicate effectively should not be dictated by privilege or access to elite education. AI ensures that everyone has the tools to write, express, and engage confidently, reinforcing digital literacy as a fundamental right, not an advantage.
AI and the Creator Economy: Expanding Economic Opportunity
Digital literacy is more than just the ability to read and write—it’s about understanding and leveraging technology for economic growth. As AI transforms smartphones into powerful creative tools, it unlocks new industries, from gaming and eSports to content creation and digital entrepreneurship.
AI-powered cameras now offer automated scene recognition, enhanced low-light photography, and real-time editing, making high-quality content creation accessible to more people. Those who can navigate AI-driven tools are better positioned to monetise their skills, turning digital platforms into sources of income. With AI lowering barriers, talent—not privilege—defines who thrives in the digital economy.
AI for Gaming: Power Meets Accessibility
Gaming is more than entertainment; for many, it is a gateway to digital literacy, problem-solving, and economic participation. As AI makes technology more intuitive, gaming is emerging as a training ground for digital skills, helping users develop strategic thinking, cognitive agility, and technical proficiency, all essential for the evolving digital economy.
Yet, high-performance gaming has traditionally been expensive and inaccessible, requiring advanced hardware and high-speed networks. AI is transforming this landscape, enabling immersive, high-speed gaming on affordable mobile devices. With Adaptive Frame Booster, AI enables smooth 120 FPS gameplay while using 18% less power, ensuring that even users with mid-range devices can experience high-quality gaming without costly upgrades. Meanwhile, AI-powered haptics, like O-Haptics’ X-axis linear motor, are redefining mobile gaming experiences, making them more intuitive, responsive, and engaging.
Beyond recreation, gaming is becoming a platform for education, skills development, and even digital careers, from eSports to game development. As AI removes technical barriers, it unlocks new pathways for learning, competition, and economic opportunity, ensuring that talent—not access to expensive technology, determines success in the digital world.
The Ethical Responsibility of AI Development
AI has the power to drive inclusion, but its impact depends on how responsibly it is developed and deployed. When technology is not designed for diverse communities, it risks reinforcing inequality instead of dismantling it. AI must be accessible, affordable, and free from biases perpetuating digital exclusion.
This Human Rights Month, we must recognise that equality includes the right to access knowledge and technology. The future of innovation should not be about who can afford to participate; it must ensure that no one is left behind. AI should not divide us; it must uplift and empower society.

The Right to Relevance: South Africa’s Place in the AI-Driven Future

By
Vanashree Govender, Senior PR Manager, Media and Communications, Huawei South Africa
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The Right to Relevance: South Africa’s Place in the AI-Driven Future
Vanashree Govender, Senior PR Manager, Media and Communications from Huawei South Africa

As South Africa commemorates Human Rights Day, guided by the imperative to “deepen a culture of social justice and human rights,” we are reminded that the pursuit of dignity, justice, and inclusion is a continuous endeavour. The fight for these fundamental rights does not end with democracy; it evolves with the challenges of each new era. Today, one of those challenges is Artificial Intelligence (AI), presenting a critical test: can we harness its potential to deepen social justice and human rights?

Human Rights Day 2025

AI is reshaping industries, economies, and societies at an unprecedented pace. The real question for South Africa is: Will we shape AI, or will AI shape us? This is more than an economic debate; it is a social justice and human rights issue. The right to relevance, the right to compete, and the right to participate in an AI-driven world must be protected, ensuring that AI serves South Africans rather than leaving them behind.

South Africa has spent decades tackling the digital divide, expanding access to the internet, mobile connectivity, and digital services. However, a new divide has emerged, one that goes beyond mere connectivity. The challenge is ensuring that people have the skills and knowledge to engage with AI, automation, and digital transformation.

Arthur Goldstuck, CEO of World Wide Worx, highlights this shift: “The next great divide won’t be between those who have access to the internet and those who don’t, it will be between those who can work with AI and those who cannot.”

Across Africa, Kenya and Nigeria are using AI to transform agriculture, financial services, and healthcare, driving efficiency, boosting productivity, and expanding financial inclusion. South Africa’s AI adoption, however, has been business-led rather than policy-driven, creating both opportunities and risks.

South African companies are already using AI to automate tasks, optimise supply chains, and improve decision-making across banking, mining, healthcare, and retail. While AI enhances efficiency and competitiveness, the danger lies in unequal access to AI skills.

To address this, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) is working to ensure AI is not just a technology South Africa consumes, but a future it actively shapes. The National AI Policy Framework, set for evaluation in April 2025, marks a shift toward structured AI governance, investment, and skills development. This policy ensures AI aligns with South African values, economic priorities, and social realities. Dumisani Sondlo, acting director at the DCDT, stresses: “If you don’t work out how to govern AI today, you are then playing by other people’s rules. Africa’s voice cannot be ignored when it comes to AI.”

At its core, the framework takes a human-centric approach, ensuring AI is ethical, transparent, and free from bias. AI is also being integrated into economic growth strategies, ensuring it drives development rather than functioning in isolation.

Public sector adoption is a key priority, with AI being explored as a tool for governance, service delivery, and infrastructure planning. While countries like Mauritius, Rwanda, and Senegal have already published national AI strategies, South Africa is taking a consultative approach, engaging business, academia, and civil society to create a policy framework that is inclusive, adaptable, and built for long-term impact.

One of the most overlooked aspects of AI innovation in South Africa is the role of language in ensuring that AI serves the full diversity of its people. With 11 official languages, South Africa’s linguistic richness is a fundamental part of its identity and culture. Yet, many AI systems are developed in dominant global languages, creating barriers for those who express themselves in isiZulu, Afrikaans, Xhosa, Sepedi, and other indigenous languages.

If AI is to truly amplify inclusion rather than entrench inequality, then it must be designed with linguistic inclusivity at its core. AI-powered speech recognition, translation tools, and chatbots that fail to accommodate South Africa’s full linguistic landscape risk excluding millions from digital transformation. The nuances of each language, its idioms, context, and cultural weight, must be carefully considered to avoid the misinterpretations that occur when words are lost in translation.

Workforce readiness is also one of the most urgent AI policy challenges. According to the Future of Jobs Report 2025, by 2030, 22% of jobs will be disrupted, with 170 million new roles created and 92 million displaced. The real issue is not AI itself, but whether South Africa is preparing its people for this shift.

South Africa has an opportunity to do more than adapt to AI; it can lead in its responsible development and deployment. The framework is being set; the talent exists. The challenge now is to act boldly, invest strategically, and ensure that AI serves the many, not the few.

For South Africa, ensuring that AI is a tool for growth, inclusion, and competitiveness is more than a strategic priority; it is a social justice and human rights obligation.

Access to Social Justice Is Not a Privilege, It Is a Basic Human Right

By
Marc Lubner, Group CEO Afrika Tikkun
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Access to Social Justice Is Not a Privilege, It Is a Basic Human Right
Basic Human Right

Thirty-one years into our constitutional democracy, terms such as social justice, social activists, social entrepreneurs and socio-economic rights have become ubiquitous in our social discourse. However, their true meanings warrant deeper reflection. According to the United Nations, “Social justice may be broadly understood as the fair and compassionate distribution of the fruits of economic growth.” Similarly, the National Association of Social Workers defines social justice as the view that everyone deserves equal economic, political, and social rights and opportunities, with social workers aiming to open the doors of access and opportunity for everyone, particularly those in great need.

Despite the various definitions, three commonalities remain constant: Equal Rights, Equal Opportunity, and Equal Treatment. These principles are enshrined in our progressive Constitution, which is hailed worldwide. However, South Africa faces three starkly opposite realities: Poverty, Inequality, and Unemployment. The economy continues to be dual in nature, characterised by one of the highest and most persistent inequality rates globally. In 2018, the consumption expenditure Gini coefficient was 0.67. This high level of inequality is perpetuated by a legacy of exclusion and an economic growth pattern that is not pro-poor and fails to generate sufficient employment opportunities. Wealth inequality is even more pronounced, and low intergenerational mobility means that inequalities are passed down with little change over time. The unemployment rate was notably high at 33.5% in Q2-2024, with women and youth being disproportionately affected. Inequality remains among the highest in the world, and poverty was estimated at 62.6% in 2023, based on the upper-middle-income country poverty line, only slightly below its pandemic peak.

Marc Lubner, Group CEO Afrika Tikkun

In the face of these daunting statistics and seemingly grim outlook, Afrika Tikkun stands as a beacon of hope. As the recipient of the 2025 CSI Legacy Award for Best NGO, Afrika Tikkun’s Cradle-to-Career 360° model has been proven successful in making a significant impact on the triple threat of inequality, poverty, and unemployment. This award serves as evidence that our approach is effective and that meaningful change is possible.

However, it must be acknowledged that Afrika Tikkun cannot combat these challenges alone. Collaboration and partnerships are essential. Afrika Tikkun is a viable vehicle for those looking to join forces in providing quality education, skills development, healthcare and food and nutrition which lead and are precursors to successful youth employment. By working together, the vision of social justice can be realised, ensuring that access to these fundamental rights is not a privilege but a basic human right.

Therefore, it is imperative for the government and corporate entities to step forward and partner with Afrika Tikkun. By investing in and supporting initiatives that provide quality education, skills development, healthcare food and nutrition, they can help create a more equitable society. Corporates sharing their growth path plans enable us to prepare a workforce with great values and appropriate skills improving corporate hires and reducing unnecessary costs.

This collaboration is not just a moral obligation but a practical necessity to ensure sustainable development and social justice for all. Let us unite in this endeavour to make a tangible difference in the lives of those most affected by poverty, inequality and unemployment.

For more details visit: www.afrikatikkun.com

Woman of Stature Awards: A decade of recognising excellence and empowering South African women across industries

By
LnT Desk
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Woman of Stature Awards: A decade of recognising excellence and empowering South African women across industries
Charlotte du Plessis, CEO and Founder of the Woman of Stature Awards South Africa

Gender equality in South Africa remains a pressing issue.  Women occupy only 30% of executive positions in corporate South Africa, despite making up more than half of the population. Addressing these challenges requires recognition, empowerment, and tangible support for women breaking barriers in their respective industries.

Against this backdrop, the Woman of Stature Awards South Africa marks a major milestone in 2025, celebrating its 10th season as a platform to recognise exceptional South African women across industries, including arts & culture, sport, business, media, education, mining, engineering and hospitality to name a few.

With over 700 nominations received this year, the record-breaking 134 nominees reflect the growing demand for platforms that honour women who making a difference. These awards shine a spotlight on those who drive economic growth, social change, and industry excellence, while also advocating for greater gender inclusivity.

Closing the Gender Gap Through Recognition

The Woman of Stature Awards South Africa is more than just an awards ceremony – it is a is a movement dedicated to recognising and uplifting women who have excelled in their respective fields.

“Recognition is a powerful tool for empowerment,” says Charlotte du Plessis, CEO and Founder of the Woman of Stature Awards South Africa. “By celebrating the achievements of these outstanding women, we not only validate their hard work and impact but also inspire others to step into leadership roles. Gender inclusivity is not just a moral imperative—it’s an economic and social necessity for South Africa.”

Nominees also have a unique opportunity to raise funds as part of the Woman Rise Programme. This initiative strengthens the awards’ mission of empowering women beyond the stage, ensuring that recognition translates into business support and sustainability.

Adding to the significance of the 10th edition, the awards gala will be co-hosted by two powerhouse women in the media industry: Nicole Capper, former Mrs. South Africa and GM of Humanz Africa, and Noni Khumalo, celebrated radio and TV personality. Their presence highlights the importance of female leadership in media, an industry where women’s voices are often underrepresented.

The 2025 Woman of Stature Awards South Africa has an independent panel of distinguished adjudicators, including Miss World South Africa 2024, Zoalize Jansen Van Rensburg and Mrs. South Africa 2025 Erin Jane Miller.  The auditing process, conducted by MGI RAS, upholds the integrity of the awards, making them one of the most credible platforms celebrating women’s excellence in South Africa.

Woman of Stature Awards

The Public Choice Award is a highly sought-after special award that allows supporters to vote for their favourite nominee. While this special award celebrates public recognition, it does not influence the selection of category winners in any way. It provides nominees with a valuable opportunity to increase their visibility, showcase their achievements, and grow their personal or professional brand.

With its 10th season, the Woman of Stature Awards South Africa is set to make history once again, ensuring that women continue to be recognized, empowered, and celebrated for their remarkable contributions to society.

Awards Ceremony Details:

The highly anticipated gala evening for the Woman of Stature Awards South Africa will take place on 12th April 2025 at the Indaba Hotel, Fourways, Johannesburg.

This  celebration will bring together industry leaders, influencers, and dignitaries for an unforgettable evening featuring keynote speeches, live performances, and the much-anticipated awards presentation.

Book Your Tickets Now: Secure your seat at this prestigious event by visiting: https://wosawardsglobal.com/

Award Categories for the 10th Woman of Stature Awards South Africa:

CEO of the Year

Entrepreneur of the Year

Woman in Arts and Culture

Woman in Beauty and Fashion

Woman in Coaching and Mentoring

Woman in Community

Woman in Education and Training

Woman in Engineering and Mining

Woman in Financial Services

Woman in Health and Wellness

Woman in Media and Journalism

Woman in Sport

Woman in Technology

Woman in MICE, Tourism, and Hospitality

Bambanani Online Assessment Centre Revolutionises Early Childhood Development

By
LnT Desk
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Bambanani Online Assessment Centre Revolutionises Early Childhood Development
Using Technology in ECD

Early Childhood Development (ECD) in South Africa is undergoing a seismic shift, thanks to the cutting-edge Bambanani Online Assessment Centre. This game-changing platform is empowering teachers, upskilling practitioners, and ensuring that every child receives the support they need to thrive. With real-time data, continuous assessments, and gap analysis, the initiative is setting new standards in early education, while also providing corporate social investment (CSI) donors with powerful insights to maximise their impact.

A New Era of Data-Driven ECD

The Bambanani Online Assessment Centre is redefining how early learning is tracked and improved. Teachers and ECD practitioners now have access to real-time data, allowing them to monitor each child’s progress in key developmental areas, including literacy, numeracy, cognitive skills, fine and gross motor skills, and social-emotional development.

Continuous assessments mean that learning is no longer assessed only at term-end but is monitored throughout the year. This ensures that interventions happen immediately rather than retrospectively, closing learning gaps before they become insurmountable. Practitioners can now adjust their teaching strategies dynamically, ensuring that no child is left behind.

Upskilling Teachers Based on Real Needs

One of the most powerful aspects of the system is its ability to identify gaps not just in children’s learning but also in teacher competence. The assessment centre provides critical data on where teachers need additional training, allowing for targeted upskilling programmes that are directly aligned with the challenges they face in the classroom.

“Before, we could only rely on general training sessions. Now, we know exactly where teachers need support,” says Theresa Michael, a key figure in the Bambanani initiative. “By analysing data throughout the year, we can tailor our training to be highly effective and truly transformative.”

A Game-Changer for CSI Donors

Corporate Social Investment (CSI) donors are also taking notice. In an era where impact-driven funding is essential, the Bambanani Online Assessment Centre offers a goldmine of data to ensure that every rand invested delivers measurable results. CSI donors can now track the progress of ECD centres in real time, making informed decisions about where to allocate funds for maximum impact.

“The ability to measure the effectiveness of funding has been a game-changer,” says Tessa, a lead contributor to the initiative. “Donors can now see exactly how their contributions are changing lives, ensuring transparency and accountability in ECD funding.”

Transforming the Future of ECD

With over 40,000 children in 500 ECD centres already benefiting from the initiative and 3,200 teachers upskilled, the impact of the Bambanani Online Assessment Centre is undeniable. Schools are becoming more efficient, teachers more empowered, and children better prepared for the future.

As the initiative continues to expand, it is proving that data-driven education is not just the future—it is the present. In the years to come, the Bambanani Online Assessment Centre is set to shape the landscape of early learning, ensuring that South Africa’s youngest citizens receive the strong foundation they deserve.

Tightening Cyber Defences in the SA Financial Services Industry Through Legislation

By
LnT Desk
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Tightening Cyber Defences in the SA Financial Services Industry Through Legislation
business

Automated processes across banking, financing, insurance and other financial services are dependent on complex infrastructures that span both on-premises data centres and cloud service providers. This dependency on third-party service providers and technology vendors puts financial organisations at significant risk.

It is therefore a welcome fact that local financial institutions are facing a pressing cybersecurity deadline to help address this issue, with the implementation of the ‘Joint Standard 2 of 2024 on Cybersecurity and Cyber Resilience Requirements for Financial Institutions’ (also known as the ‘Joint Standard’) scheduled to come into effect on 01 June this year.

This is according to Bryan Hamman, regional director for Africa at NETSCOUT, who says: “The deadline comes against a background in which the financial services sector across the continent remains a lucrative target for cybercriminals. The past 18 months have shown an upswing in the activities of geopolitically motivated hacktivists and their coordinated distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack efforts aimed at banking and financial services, underscoring the critical requirement for financial services organisations across the spectrum to address growing cyber risks and IT disruptions.”

Service availability and the protection of data in industries such as banking and insurance is of paramount importance, and disruptions of any type can have far-reaching consequences for both the organisations themselves as well as their clients.

Hamman adds: “As outlined in NETSCOUT’s most recent DDoS Threat Intelligence Report, DDoS attacks are becoming more sophisticated and harder to mitigate, and across the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region we find no exception.

“Cybercriminals are using advanced techniques to overwhelm financial institutions, often targeting infrastructure components like Domain Name System (DNS) servers that are critical for digital services. The 1h 2024 Threat Intelligence Report showed that South African insurance agencies and brokerages bore the overwhelming burden of incidents EMEA-wide for this particular sector of the financial services industry.”

Legislation to Strengthen and Protect

Technological advancements have brought many benefits to the financial services industry, including ease of interactions with their clients, but at the same time, as outlined previously, the threat landscape has also evolved.

Due to the interconnectedness of the financial system, a cyber incident or failure at one connected entity can affect both the safety and soundness of that entity as well as other institutions. “Cyberattacks can therefore pose a major threat to multiple financial institutions and even organisations in other industries,” says Hamman. “The legislation of cybersecurity measures aims to prevent and control risk possibilities.”

The ‘Joint Standard’ is so named because it was published jointly on 16 May 2024 by South Africa’s Prudential Authority (PA) and the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA). The PA looks after the safety of regulated financial institutions and market infrastructures, while the FSCA is responsible for supporting the efficiency and integrity of financial market and protecting financial customers.

Stock market data chart display ticker board

The ‘Joint Standard’ applies to various financial institutions, including banks, insurers, retirement funds and administrators, and collective investment scheme managers. It sets out detailed requirements and principles for sound practices and processes relating to cybersecurity and cyber resilience. Some of the principles set out by the ‘Joint Standard’, with which financial institutions must comply, include the following:

  • Establishing and maintaining a cybersecurity strategy that is aligned with the overall business strategy and reviewed at least annually.
  • Implementing cyber resilience capabilities and practices to prevent, limit and contain the impact of a potential cyber incident.
  • Installing network security devices to secure the network.
  • Establishing a comprehensive cybersecurity awareness training programme.
  • Monitoring and detecting cyber events and cyber incidents.
  • Implementing an incident response and management plan.
  • Testing control effectiveness.
  • Conducting regular vulnerability assessments on its IT systems.
  • Implementing malware protection.

Strength in Unity

Hamman clarifies: “The implementation of the ‘Joint Standard’ is aimed at strengthening the IT security of local financial entities, making sure that South Africa’s financial sector is empowered to stay resilient in the event of any severe operational disruption.

“I believe you could regard this legislation as being similar in nature and end goals to that of the European Union’s so-named ‘DORA’ – in other words, the Digital Operational Resilience Act – which is the new security regulation for financial institutions in the EU that came into effect on 17 January this year, and which seeks to ensure that financial systems in those countries can withstand disruptions or recover quickly.”

He notes further that the financial services sector is a critical arena that affects multiple other economic areas. For threat actors, the sector’s inherent interconnectedness, across both borders and other vertical sectors, only adds to the attraction of disrupting financial services organisations in terms of potential gains.

“With the deadline looming for local financial institutions to ensure that they are compliant, we at NETSCOUT are highly supportive of the legislative measures prescribed by the ‘Joint Standard’ in organising and channelling cyber defence and resilience measures,” says Hamman.

“We anticipate that the implementation of the ‘Joint Standard’ will become a new milestone for cybersecurity and operational resilience in the local financial sector and assist in addressing growing cyber risks and IT disruptions,” he concludes.

NETSCOUT is a leading provider of enterprise performance management, carrier service assurance, cybersecurity and DDoS protection solutions. For more information, please visit https://www.netscout.com/

 

Hell’s Kitchen, Jamie Oliver, spicy dinner parties, and more! It’s a tasty line-up on DStv

By
LnT Desk
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Hell’s Kitchen, Jamie Oliver, spicy dinner parties, and more! It’s a tasty line-up on DStv
Hell’s Kitchen
DStv is serving up a feast for food enthusiasts with a stellar lineup of new cooking shows featuring some of your favourite TV chefs. Watch the food maestros battle it out in thrilling competitions, dish up inspirational meals on the braai, or create comforting tastes of home. Tune in to Food Network, VIA and BBC Lifestyle to savour all the deliciousness.
HELL’S KITCHEN USA S23  
BBC Lifestyle (Channel 174 on DStv) | 22:00 on Mondays-Thursdays
Hell’s Kitchen opens on the East Coast for the first time ever! Eighteen head chefs arrive in Connecticut to compete to become the next Head Chef at the Foxwoods Resort & Casino. Season 23 takes viewers back into the fiery kitchen where aspiring chefs battle it out under the watchful eye of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. With each episode packed with intense competition, dramatic eliminations and Ramsay’s notorious critiques, viewers will be kept on the edge of their seats.
Hell’s Kitchen has been nominated for five Emmys and two Critics Choice Awards, while Gordon was up for the 2024 People’s Choice Award for Host of the Year.
COME DINE WITH ME SOUTH AFRICA S10  
BBC Lifestyle (Channel 174 on DStv) | 20:00 on Wednesdays 
In each episode four strangers from across South Africa take turns to try and achieve dinner party perfection. Who will take home the R10 000 cash prize?
Come Dine with Me South Africa follows four people who have never previously met as they snoop around each other’s homes, sample each other’s cooking and pass judgement on one another’s entertainment skills. Each night for a week the contestants take turns to cook up their idea of the perfect evening. But who will win the title of the ultimate dinner party host?
A previous SAFTA winner for Best International Format Reality Show, Come Dine With Me South Africa is produced by Rapid Blue (Dancing With The Stars, The Bachelor, Family Feud, Got Talent, Shark Tank).
CHOPPED S61 
Food Network (Channel 175 on DStv) | 16:05 on Wednesdays  
A pile of mystery ingredients and a ticking clock. It can only be Chopped, the high-pressure, high-stakes cooking show in which chefs tackle the seemingly impossible challenge of turning random ingredients into magnificent meals.
In this season, fun twists like auctions add to the action as the chefs compete for advantages and use all their skills to win.
Part of the Culinary Hall of Fame, Chopped has won two James Beard Awards, for Best Show: In-Studio and for Best Media Personality or Host, given to Ted Allen, who’s also an Emmy winner as the food and wine specialist on Queer Eye for The Straight Guy.
PLAIN EN SIMPLE   
VIA (Channel 147 on DStv) | 17:00 on Thursdays 
For five seasons, Gadija and Fatima Sydow delighted fans on VIA’s popular cooking show Kaap, Kerrie en Koesisters. Since Fatima’s tragic death from cancer, Gadija has been keeping the family flag flying high in honour of her sister.​ In each episode of Plain en Simple, a feel-good celebration of homemade Cape cuisine, Gadija visits a celebrity or remarkable local who once called Mitchells Plain home. She then helps them prepare a cherished family recipe that they can all sit down to enjoy.
KOKKEDOOR: VUUR EN VLAM 
kykNET (Channel 144 on DStv) | 20:00 on Thursdays
In Kokkedoor Vuur & Vlam, which debuted in 2023, contestants must prepare everything over open flames, on the coals, in the ashes, or on the grill – turning up the heat in the ultimate braai showdown!
Over 13 episodes, award-winning chef Bertus Basson and braai master Kobus Botha are on the hunt for the perfect pairing of an onthoubraaier (a traditional braaier) and a kinkelbraaier (an innovative braaier). An onthoubraaier has no formal culinary training or professional experience but has a deep passion for traditional food. These contestants are selected for their talent as home cooks and their expertise in nostalgic, heritage dishes. On the other hand, kinkelbraaiers bring a modern twist, chosen for their qualifications and experience in professional kitchens or recognised restaurants.
Throughout the series, various food and product experts, as well as a celebrity or two, make guest appearances. The show’s production team includes celebrated food writer and SARIE KOS editor Herman Lensing, along with food media specialist Errieda du Toit.
SYMON’S DINNERS COOKING OUT S5
Food Network (Channel 175 on DStv) | 16:05 on Sundays
Michael Symon fires up his backyard barbeque to encourage everyone to cook out using his delicious and easy outdoor dinners. Self-shot in his New York backyard, Michael brings an American twist to cooking over fire: from sticky ribs to meatball parm, and delicious desserts like Bananas Foster, he shares his grilling tips and tricks to make every meal flamingly delicious.
A James Beard Foundation Award winner, Michael won an Emmy for co-hosting The Chew and was nominated for Outstanding Culinary Host for Symon’s Dinners Cooking Out.
WILDCARD KITCHEN S2  
Food Network (Channel 175 on DStv) | 21:55 on Saturdays from 29 March 
Wildcard Kitchen is back, and the stakes are higher than ever. Join chef Eric Adjepong as he welcomes Food Network Stars like Alex Guarnaschelli, Rocco DiSpirito, Andrew Zimmern and Bryan and Michael Voltaggio to a late-night culinary game. Each chef brings $5 000 of their own money and plays the game, cooking dishes based on whatever hand they’re dealt.
JAMIE OLIVER: SEASONS 
BBC Lifestyle (Channel 174 on DStv) | 20:00 on Tuesdays from 1 April 
Jamie Oliver is back with an uplifting series that takes us through the whole year – from spring to winter – celebrating gorgeous ingredients and the delicious dishes we can make with them.
A People’s Choice nominee for Favourite TV Chef, Jamie won a BAFTA for The Naked Chef and an Emmy for Food Revolution, among other accolades.
PLUS, DON’T MISS:
The season finale of MasterChef Australia: Dessert Masters airs on 30 March 2025. The competition has been as sweet as it gets, with top pastry chefs fighting for the crown. Don’t miss the final showdown at 18:00 on M-Net (DStv channel 101).
Reminder: All content is available on DStv Stream, and the app is free for DStv subscribers. DStv Premium, Compact Plus, and Compact customers now get two concurrent streams, so they can watch on smart TVs, laptops, tablets, and more.
See the full schedule:

Beyond A Tick Box: The True Meaning of Diversity & Inclusion

By
LnT Desk
-
Beyond A Tick Box: The True Meaning of Diversity & Inclusion
Diversity & Inclusion

Across the world companies are rolling back their D&I initiatives in response to changing political tides. March is Human Rights Month in South Africa, a built-in pause button for a country still working through its past. For many of us, Human Rights Day (March 21st) isn’t just another public holiday, it’s a reminder that progress doesn’t happen on autopilot. It takes work. And nowhere is that work more important than in the places where we spend most of our waking hours: our workplaces.

While South Africa leads globally in some aspects of representation, women hold 29% of board seats in top 100 listed companies compared to 20% in G20 nations, there is still a lot to be done. One of the first places to start is remembering that true inclusion encompasses more than initiatives that only focus on race and gender. The world is unbelievably diverse which means workplace diversity initiatives need to also consider people that are differently abled, neurodivergent and those of other faiths. It is estimated that between 15 – 20% of the world’s population is neurodivergent and, according to, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, “the employment rate of people with disability was 27% lower than for people without disability”. Another study found that 38% of people say their organisation could do more to be more inclusive of people of different faiths.  Continuing the progress made by D&I initiative is critical for organisational wellbeing and societal equality. While South Africa has taken some big steps to ensure diversity and inclusion (D&I), more should be done to make sure that we create fair and equitable workplaces.

Why D&I initiatives matter

According to the South African Leadership Diversity Report, transformation efforts often fall short because they are treated as a scorecard exercise often based only on race and gender rather than a deep commitment to fundamentally redress and change.

Beyond a moral obligation, fostering diversity and inclusion benefits both organisations and employees. A diverse workforce improves innovation, engagement and performance. Studies show that companies with strong D&I policies outperform their peers: gender-diverse leadership teams are 25% more likely to be profitable, while ethnically diverse organisations see 36% higher profitability. Neurodiverse teams have also been found to increase productivity, creativity and innovation.

YuLife SA, a tech-driven financial services company on a mission to transform insurance into a force for good, highlights this link: “Meaningful transformation in the workplace leads to better outcomes and a more equitable society. In South Africa, we still have a long road ahead, but we are making progress.”

“In order for D&I to be truly meaningful, we have to focus on holistic inclusion. That means recognising the needs of neurodiverse, differently abled and other marginalised groups as well. While they may not be where we need them to be, these elements are being phased in across the board and we look forward to the impact they will make.”.”

Employees who feel valued and included are more likely to be engaged and productive. They contribute new ideas, work collaboratively and are less likely to leave, reducing turnover costs. When organisations foster belonging, they create a workplace where people are motivated to contribute their best.

Making D&I meaningful: Beyond the tick-box

To ensure D&I initiatives drive real impact rather than just meeting quotas, organisations should consider the following:

  • Move beyond vague promises: Diversity targets mean nothing without action. Companies love to talk about transformation, but real change happens when boards and leadership teams commit to meaningful representation at every level, not just in junior roles.
  • Make inclusion more than a slogan: Invest in effective, measured and purposeful training and discussions. Employees need to see inclusion in action through regular training, open conversations, and leaders who walk the talk.
  • Fix the hiring gap: Create a more efficient, inclusive, and effective hiring process. Companies need to invest in talent pipelines, offer mentorship, and broaden hiring criteria to bring in voices that have traditionally been left out.
  • Hold leaders accountable: If no one is responsible, nothing changes. A dedicated diversity committee or executive ensures that transformation isn’t just a side project, it’s a priority.

Gen-Z and millennials, the D&I wake-up call and why businesses can’t afford to fake it:

Gen-Z and millennials aren’t here for performative diversity, they expect real action. As the most diverse generation yet, they’re pushing companies to move beyond corporate lip service and create workplaces that reflect the world we live in. According to the 2024 Deloitte Global Gen – Z and Millennial Survey, 20% of both Gen-Z’s and millennials have changed jobs or industries because they didn’t align with their values.  They want transparency, real inclusion, and leadership that looks like them. If businesses aren’t willing to step up, younger staff won’t hesitate to call them out or take their talent elsewhere.

The business and social case for inclusion:

Diversity and inclusion aren’t just about compliance or social good, they’re essential to business success. Companies that prioritise inclusivity attract top talent, foster innovation and perform better financially. But in South Africa, the stakes are even higher. True transformation can help heal historical wounds, create economic opportunities and build stronger communities.

The YuLife team further explains, “Employee wellness is intimately intertwined with D&I. By integrating holistic wellness and inclusive policies, companies can improve both employee wellbeing and workplace diversity. This creates environments where everyone can thrive.”

Human Rights Month is as good a time as any for companies to ask themselves a hard question: Is diversity and inclusion something they believe in, or just another area to build positive sentiment without doing the work?? The answer isn’t just about corporate reputation, it’s about survival. With 67% of job seekers factoring diversity into their employment decisions, companies that treat inclusion like an afterthought are setting themselves up to lose out on the best talent. In a country like South Africa, where transformation isn’t a nice-to-have but a necessity, the businesses that get D&I right won’t just attract top talent, they’ll shape the future of the workforce and the economy.

Zādok Set to Headline His First Solo Show – Just Zādok Live At the Basement

By
LnT Desk
-
Zādok Set to Headline His First Solo Show – Just Zādok Live At the Basement
ZĀDOK SET TO HEADLINE HIS FIRST SOLO SHOW

Acclaimed South African musician, producer, and songwriter Zādok is set to take center stage for his first-ever one-man show, Just Zādok Live at the Basement. The highly anticipated event will take place at the Untitled Basement in Johannesburg, offering fans an exclusive and intimate musical experience.

Zādok, known for his dynamic fusion of Afrobeat, Amapiano, and hip-hop, has made a lasting impact on the South African music industry. His collaborations with top artists like AKA (and putting together performances for the BETs, VMAs & Grammys), Sjava, and the late Riky Rick have cemented his reputation as a groundbreaking artist and producer. His 2024 debut album, Perspective: BLACK, was met with critical acclaim, following the success of his Perspective: BLUE and Metro FM-nominated Perspective: RED EPs.

Reflecting on this milestone, Zādok shared his excitement:

“This is a dream come true. For years, I’ve poured my heart into music, producing for some of the best in the industry. Now, I finally get to step into the spotlight on my own terms. ‘Just Zādok’ is exactly that—just me, my music, and my fans in an intimate setting. I can’t wait to share this experience with everyone.”

The album he will be recording that night will then build into House of Zādok, a grand-scale musical experience set to take place at Carnival City in September 2025.

Event Details:
Title: Just Zādok Live at the Basement
Date: March 20, 2025
Venue: Untitled Basement, Johannesburg
Doors Open: 7 PM till late
Tickets: R250 via Quicket | R300 at the door

ZĀDOK SET TO HEADLINE HIS FIRST SOLO SHOW

Zādok’s musical journey began in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, where he started playing instruments at the age of five. His passion flourished during his university years with the band Urban Beards, leading him to relocate to Johannesburg in 2017. Since then, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry, most notably as an executive producer for AKA’s final album, Mass Country.

With Just Zādok Live at the Basement, he aims to create an intimate and immersive musical experience, allowing fans to connect with his artistry on a deeper level.

Tickets are available now, and fans are encouraged to secure their spots early for what promises to be a historic night of music and storytelling.

 

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