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AI Expo Africa Celebrates 7th Year, Showcases Innovations from Global Leaders to Local Start-ups

Now entering its 7th year, the annual AI Expo Africa event unites regional and international thought leaders, suppliers and start-ups to discuss and showcase the latest AI & Smart Tech innovations, from the biggest global brands to the smallest and newest local SMMEs.

 

The core focus of the show are real world applications you can deploy today with an audience comprised of Enterprise and Government buyers, deployment & service providers, start-ups, educators, NGOs, investors and ecosystem builders.

Nonnie Kubeka, Executive Director of the Gauteng Convention & Event Bureau stated, “We are happy to welcome the growing AI tech ecosystem to the Gauteng Region.

Last year AI Expo Africa hosted 48 SMMEs at the event and the gathering helps connect buyers and suppliers around one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy.

AI is impacting all industries and certain aspects of society so its key we as a region, and a nation, have a focus on this sector as it’s a key pillar of our ICT activities and we want to showcase the local ecosystem to a regional and international audience.”

With a community of 50k+ practitioners, the show format is built upon the phenomenal success of the previous six annual events that have cemented AI Expo Africa as the largest AI business gathering of its kind, attended by Enterprise buyers, Governments, practitioners, decision makers, international trade missions, vendors and SMMEs.

Dr Nick Bradshaw, Founder of AI Expo Africa & Chairperson of the South African AI Association stated, “This is our 7th Anniversary Edition and biggest show to-date, with over 100 companies in the expo hall, many of which are local and regional SMMEs.

The current buzz around generative AI, data centres, national AI strategies, security and AI4Good are just some of the many themes our 60+ speakers and 1700 delegates will be discussing.

We are also extremely happy to welcome thought leaders from the likes of Supermicro, Nvidia, Huawei, Google and a visiting delegation from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) AI for Good who will be running an Africa-based startup pitching session at the show, as well as outlining the plans for the inaugural ITU AI for Good Impact Africa Summit.

Frederic Werner, Head of Strategic Engagement at the United Nations ITU holds strategic and operational responsibility for the ITU’s AI for Good community engagement stated, “We are again very excited to be joining the 7th Edition of AI Expo Africa this year as we are running our AI for Good Innovation Factory Africa Challenge at the show and will be announcing the launch of the first official AI for Good Impact Africa regional event to be co-hosted with AI Expo Africa in 2025.

We engage with some 1000+ companies, 194 member states and 150+ universities to help drive international standards and policy around the responsible use of AI and related technologies and how they can be applied to help solve the UN SDG goals and wider challenges faced by humanity.

We are increasing our efforts across the Africa region and our new AI for Good Impact Africa regional event in 2025 will be another big step in the right direction.”

Afrofusion Dominates Chibuku Road to Fame Provincial Finals in Midlands & Mash Central

Action continued in the Chibuku Road to Fame provincial finals this past weekend in the Midlands and Mash Central provinces.

 

Afrofusion continues to rule the roost in the Chibuku Road to Fame, with both of last weekend’s winners coming from that genre.

‘The Cousins’ from Redcliff took first place in the Midlands Province after a close competition with another afro-fusion group, Core Vybs from Gweru, which ultimately settled for second place.

In third position was the sungura band Shurugwi Stars from Shurugwi.

At Club 007 in Mash Central, it was almost a carbon copy of what took place in the Midlands, with afro-fusion groups taking first and second places, while the third position went to a sungura group.

‘The Cousins’ from Redcliff took first place in the Midlands Province

Shanty Town came out on top, followed by Crazy 8, with Darwin Stars completing the list in third place.

Provincial Finals also carry a handsome financial reward with the first place pocketing USD 2,500, second place USD 1,500, and USD 1,000 for third place

This coming Saturday, the talent competition will occur in Bulawayo and Mash East provinces.

Chitembwe Slams Nees, ZIFA, calls them Clowns

Caps United coach Lloyd Chitembwe has criticized the Warriors’ head coach Michael Nees and ZIFA for insisting on the release of players before the international break timeframe.

 

He was referring to the call-ups of his captain, Godknows Murwira, and Dynamos’ Emmanuel Jalai, who missed the Sunday derby due to ZIFA’s ‘disorganized’ plans, which required players to join camp earlier for their travel to South Africa today and, consequently, miss the important fixture.

However., Dynamos goalkeeper Martin Mapisa, who was also called up, managed to play.

The players are part of the Warriors squad for the upcoming back-to-back AFCON qualifiers against Namibia in South Africa.

Addressing the media after Caps United’s 2-1 win over Dynamos, Chitembwe did not entertain further questions and chose to focus on ZIFA and Michael Nees’ disruption.

“The major talking point for me today was the unavailability of Godknows Murwira. I’m extremely disappointed with what happened,” he seethed.

“He is our key player. He is our captain, and we need him in crucial matches. This game was very important for us.”

Chitembwe then criticized the ZIFA leadership and coaching staff for their chaotic organization.

“If some clown somewhere thinks he can make decisions on behalf of the team I coach, that’s very unfortunate. It appears we are 40 or 50 years behind and have been colonized, in football terms. If someone believes they have a monopoly on ideas, then it’s unfortunate,” he said.

Chitembwe compared the situation to other associations where no player is called up before the stipulated release time.

“Onana is also participating in the tournament that Zimbabwe is involved in, but he played today. Khama played yesterday, Jordan Zemura too, and someone thinks they can change the way we operate,” added Chitembwe.

He also reminded everyone that a similar situation nearly occurred when Manica Diamonds coach Jairos Tapera was the Warriors’ coach, and ZIFA demanded the early release of players.

However, the Premier Soccer League stood firm and refused to release players outside the designated window.

Continued Chitembwe: “I have participated at that level as both a coach and a player; I don’t need anything.

“If people are going to abuse their position simply because they’re in authority, that’s very unfortunate.”

He then revealed that local players who flew abroad earlier than allowed were threatened.

“What is more embarrassing is that they went on to threaten the players, saying if you don’t heed this call-up, we won’t consider you for future assignments. What is that? This is clowning.”

Meanwhile, Dynamos lost 2-1 to Caps United in an exciting derby played at Rufaro Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Dynamos drew first blood through Kadonzvo in the 39th minute.

A long clearance from Kelvin Moyo found Shandirwa in the middle, who then clinically passed to Kadonzvo, who slotted a low drive to the near right post.

In the second half, Caps restored parity with Bakari’s goal in the 73rd minute.

The Green Machine then took the lead ten minutes later through Zambezi, marking their first league win in the Harare Derby since 2019.

Secure Streaming: Showmax Implements Industry-Leading Security Measures

As Showmax grows steadily as one of Africa’s most important streaming platforms and sources of entertainment, the security of customer information is taking centre stage for the platform provider.

 

“As more consumers embrace digital platforms for entertainment, concerns around online credit card safety can be a barrier,” said Charity Njanji, head of corporate affairs and public relations of MultiChoice Zimbabwe.

“Showmax prioritises security for customers by implementing industry-leading security measures to protect information and provide a secure, seamless experience. This is important and essential.”

When users sign up for Showmax, personal and financial information is safeguarded by the highest security standards in the industry and the platform is fully compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, meaning that all transactions are secure and that credit card data is fully protected at every step.

The Showmax platform is designed to meet global encryption standards, such as Advanced Encryption Standard and Transport Layer Security. This means that every time a customer inputs credit card information it is encrypted and protected from unauthorised access.

This is reassuring, so that users know, whether signing up through the website or app, they can trust that payment details are secure,” said Njanji.

For added peace of mind, Showmax supports payments through well-known and trusted third-party processors like PayPal, Apple Pay and other PCI-compliant gateways.

This provides an extra layer of security, giving customers flexibility in choosing how to pay and ensuring this is done without compromising safety of information.

Customers are encouraged to enable multi-factor authentication, adding an additional safeguard to their banking accounts by requiring more than just a password for access and transactions.

“We also have a few tips to help boost security while sourcing and using Showmax,” said Njanji.

  • Use strong passwords: Create a strong, unique password for the Showmax account that avoids using easily guessable information;
  • Look for HTTPS: Always ensure the URL starts with ‘https://’ when making transactions on the Showmax website, which guarantees a secure connection;
  • Regularly monitor accounts: Periodically check accounts for any unusual activity and reach out to the Showmax customer support team if anything suspicious arises;
  • Download only from trusted sources: download the Showmax app from reputable stores such as Google Play or the Apple App Store, which perform extensive checks to ensure apps meet security standards.

Njanji said Showmax combined the best in entertainment with top-of-the-line security, making it effortless to enjoy the content they source while staying secure.

Janet Manyowa Premieres “Anotida” Music Video, Showcasing Nature’s Beauty

Multi-award-winning gospel artist Janet Manyowa has released the video for “Anotida,”  from her upcoming album Worship Moments (Open Heavens).

 

The song and video were performed and recorded live at Art Farm, Harare, during one of her recent successful concerts in May this year.

Anotida” is a well-known gospel hymn in Zimbabwe that has resonated deeply within the Christian community. The title translates to “He loves us,” emphasizing themes of divine love and grace.

The hymn which celebrates God’s unconditional love for humanity, conveys a message of hope and reassurance.

Set in a forest, the concert at Art Farm, from which the video is derived, provides a unique visual feast.

The video unfolds amidst towering eucalyptus trees, their silhouettes softly illuminated by the fading light of dusk.

The rustic charm of the venue is enhanced by bales of hay and traditional African decor, creating an inviting atmosphere of warmth.

Janet Manyowa’s rendition of “Anotida” is made special by the purity and power of her voice, which commands the attention of every soul listening to it.

Watch Anotida below

Winky D, Master H, Kamo Mphela, & Saint Floew to Headline Braai Fest 2024!

Zimbabwe’s biggest annual outdoor event, the Castle Lager “Braai Fest,” is back for its 2024 edition at Old Hararians Sports Club on Saturday, October 19th, 2024, from 10:00 AM until late.

 

This year’s festival features a blockbuster lineup, including Winky D, Master H, and Saint Floew. The festival will also welcome South Africa’s sensational singer, dancer, and Amapiano star, Kamo Mphela.

They will be supported by an incredible roster of DJs, including Etherton B, DJ L Roy, DJ Irvine (the Carling Black Label National DJ Champion for 2023), and DJ Toxy Gen.

“All Zimbabweans are invited to join us as we celebrate our unique braai culture with Africa’s finest beer,” said Kundayi Mawema, Marketing Manager Delta Lagers. “This day promises to create unforgettable memories and fun for everyone!”

Old Hararians Sports Club will once again host this amazing event, where attendees can look forward to a day of braaiing with friends, engaging games and activities, and a stellar lineup featuring local giants in music and entertainment, all infused with a touch of regional flair from across the Limpopo.

Early bird tickets for this year’s Braai Fest are available online for just $15 at www.clicknpay.africa and at the gate on event day for $20.

All tickets include a complimentary braai pack and a refreshing Castle Lager beer. Beers will be sold at pump prices, with Castle Lager Draught 1 litre selling for only $1, alongside various fresh meats available throughout the day.

Submissions Now Open for the 14th Zim Hip Hop Awards

The Zimbabwe Hip Hop Awards (ZHHA) have officially opened submissions for nominations for their highly anticipated 14th edition, set to take place in December 2024.

 

Opening of Entries will be on September 30, 2024, and close on November 1, 2024. This year will see the introduction of a new category for Spoken Word.

Nominees’ announcement will take place on November 18, 2024

The awards ceremony will be held in both virtual and conventional formats, enhancing accessibility for artists and fans alike.

The ZHHA has also announced a new partnership with the House of Arts Association, which will manage and curate the awards.

“As the leading authority on Zimbabwean hip hop culture and the first prestigious hip hop awards in Africa, the Zimbabwe Hip Hop Awards aims to celebrate and empower local talent,” read a statement from the organisers.

“This year’s event will continue to acknowledge the contributions of artists across various genres, fostering a vibrant music scene.”

Artists interested in performing at ZHHA14 are encouraged to submit their biographies and proposed performance materials to info@zimhiphopawards.co.zw.

 

Awards Categories Include:

  1. Best Male
  2. Best Female
  3. Best Collaboration
  4. Best Hip Hop Group
  5. Best Producer
  6. Best Newcomer
  7. Best Brand Supporting Hip Hop
  8. Best Album
  9. Best Promoter
  10. Best Diaspora
  11. Best Dance Act
  12. Best Radio DJ
  13. Best Club and Event DJ
  14. Best Gospel Act
  15. Best Underground
  16. Best Alternative
  17. Planet Dodger Online Media
  18. Best Journalist
  19. Song of the Year
  20. Video of the Year & Director of the Year
  21. Best Live Act
  22. Best Hip Hop Hustle
  23. Best Hip Hop Verse Sweet 16
  24. Hip Hop Personality of the Year
  25. People’s Choice
  26. Lifetime Achievement
  27. Positive Social Impact Award
  28. Spoken Word

International Miss South Africa 2024 Queens crowned

International Miss South Africa (IMSA) an organization dedicated to empowering young women through personal development, education, and community engagement recently crowned its 2024 Queens.

 

With a focus on environmental sustainability and leadership, IMSA provides a platform for young women to shine and make a positive impact on the world.

Launched in 2023, International Miss South Africa is a platform that celebrates the multifaceted brilliance of young women by empowering, educating and elevating young girls and women.

The finale event was held at Vodaworld in Midrand, Johannesburg on Saturday 28September 2024, Hosted by TV, Radio personality and actress Tidimalo Sehlako.

Among the judges was Award winning TV and film producer, screenwriter and actress Lulu Hela; Businesswoman Nomvula Mabuza; co- director of Mrs Soweto and former Mrs South Africa Thandi Potgieter;

Visionary fashion designer Mandisa Ka Magwa Phuncu; Relationship and personal development coach Chelsea Da Gama and Group manager Rem and benefits Ms Gugu Xaba.

The director of International Miss from Colorado in the United States of America Kristen Pago, and 2024 International Miss Teen (USA) Rachel Sullivan graced the event.

These are the crowned queens in the various categories:

  •     Princess:Ages 4-6

Winner: Phawu Ndamase from Mpumalanga

1st runner up: Micayla Snow

2nd runner up: Silindile Moila

 

  •    Jr Pre-Teen: Ages 7-9

Winner: Thlolo Maserumule from Mpumalanga

1st runner up: Siyamthanda Khumalo

2nd runner up: Nkazimulo Magagula

 

  •    Pre-Teen: Ages 10-12

Winner: CheniqueKooi from Gauteng

1st runner up: Elihle Shezi

2nd runner up: Andronique Hassin

 

  •    Jr Teen: Ages 13-15

Winner: Lathitha Yolwa from Eastern Cape

1st runner up: Bonolo Makgoba

2nd runner up: Enhle Mdakane

 

  •     Teen:Ages 16-19

Winner:  Lekgantse Mmotlana from Gauteng

1st runner up: ZoeyKay van da Merwe

2nd runner up: Lindokuhle Pasiwe from

 

  •    Miss:Ages 20-25

Winner: Thato Motsatsi from North West

1st runner up: Botshelo Seboa

2nd runner up: Kamogelo Radebe

 

The Six Category Winners walked away with awesome prizes ranging from Fully paid flight to USA; Fully paid Accommodation in the USA; Sash; Rhinestone crown; Boquete of flowers; Clothing vouchers; Dental treatment; Photoshoot; Royalty Trip; Cosmetics; Travel gear; IMSA opening number dress for 2025; VIP treatment in 2025 IMSA; Stationery; Hair equipment and products; Travel luggage; Crystal trophies; and Coaching sessions.

Zinhle Thupana, Director of International Miss South Africa said: “As the director of the organisation, I am thrilled to share that the 2024International Miss SA finals were a resounding success! This year’s event was not just about competition; it was a celebration of connection, fun, and sisterhood among young girls.

“Throughout the year, we engaged in diverse projects spanning academia to environmental health, fostering an environment where these remarkable individuals could inspire one another.

It was truly heartwarming to witness the girls passionately express their love for the environment and their commitment to protecting it for future generations. Their ideas and enthusiasm reminded us all of the vital role we play in preserving our planet.

“Our vision is to create a space where young girls are celebrated for their unique talents and perspectives while being equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to build a more sustainable and just world for themselves.

We remain dedicated to ensuring our girls experience inclusion, mindfulness, sustainability, and authenticity in everything we do.

“Thankyou to everyone who made this event possible. Together, we will continue to empower and uplift our future leaders!”

DStv Stream: A New Era of Family Entertainment and Connection

Increasing the amount of time families spend together is a key goal of the DStv stream platform, which ensures that content includes a range of viewing opportunities aimed at encouraging family groups to watch together.

 

MultiChoice Zimbabwe head of corporate affairs and public relations, Charity Njanji, said the thrust toward greater family viewing experiences was based on the belief that in the modern day too much time is spent apart, with loss of valuable shared family time.

“We want families to bond and one of the ways of doing this is to share viewing experiences with a range of shows that engage younger family members through education, creativity, technology and sport,” she said.

“DStv Stream offers content that helps bridge gaps between generations, encouraging parents to connect with their teens in meaningful ways.”

Today many teenagers watch entertainment on their own, so the planned creation of content that allows for this viewing to be done in company of other family members helps bring families together, especially if the viewed content leads to discussion and interaction.

In a traditional sense, a father and son streaming the latest football game or a mother and daughter bonding over a drama series helps connect them. And other streamed content expands viewing to the whole family together, which is even more exciting.

“With DStv Stream, families can enjoy top-tier entertainment without the need for a decoder or installation,” said Njanji.

“Audiences can stream live TV, catch up on favourite shows or download content for offline viewing, all on a wide range of devices. With multiple profiles and parental controls, parents can stay involved in what their children are watching while bonding over shared content.”

Parental control is key to ensuring the younger views stick to family-driven entertainment. DStv Stream has easy-to-use parental controls to ensure their teens and children are enjoying age-appropriate content.

Njanji said: “Set up is simple: select Kids on the profile page, enable Kids Lock and create a PIN in settings. It’s easy and offers great comfort for parents.”

The content available on DStv Stream is varied and exciting, ranging from the international drama to regionally-produced shows, from education to sport and from children’s programmes and quiz and game shows.

Simba Maintains Title Challenge, Pirates Sunk Deeper in Relegation

Matchday 28 of the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League ended on a high note, with the battle for the title still leaning toward Shamva as Tonderayi Ndiraya’s boys managed to secure a point away at Ngezi.

 

Manondo One Goal Clear

CAPS United striker William Manondo has increased his goal tally to 12, leading the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League Golden Boot race.

He scored in his team’s 1-1 draw against Yadah FC, who were missing Khama Billiat due to a yellow card suspension.

Manica Held by Bikita

Jairos Tapera’s Manica Diamonds played to a goalless draw against struggling Bikita Minerals at Sakubva on Sunday.

Once perched at the top of the Castle Lager Premiership, Manica Diamonds now find their title hopes diminishing as they sit in fourth position with 43 points, tied with Ngezi, who have two games in hand.

Pirates on Their Way Out

Chegutu Pirates have managed only 20 points in 28 games, and TelOne compounded their misery by defeating them on Sunday at Baobab Stadium.

Blessing Sahondo’s solitary goal provided the WiFi boys with a crucial boost, as they too remain in danger of relegation.

Simba, Ngezi Share Spoils

Simba Bhora secured a draw against champions Ngezi Platinum Stars after the match ended goalless.

Although the result reduced Simba’s lead at the top, it was a respectable outcome considering they faced the defending champions, who are not willing to surrender easily.

The Shamva-based side now sits on 57 points, seven ahead of second-placed FC Platinum, who returned to winning ways by defeating Highlanders 1-0.

 

Castle Lager Premiership Matchday 28 Results:
FC Platinum 1-0 Highlanders

Herentals 1-2 Dynamos

Ngezi Platinum 0-0 Simba Bhora

ZPC Kariba 1-0 Greenfuel

Arenel 0-0 Hwange

CAPS United 1-1 Yadah

Chicken Inn 2-0 Bulawayo Chiefs

Bikita Minerals 0-0 Manica Diamonds

Chegutu Pirates 0-1 TelOne