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Vodacom Business deploys mobile private network to enhance Sasol’s Secunda operations

Internet

Vodacom Business has successfully deployed a Mobile Private Network (MPN) at Sasol’s synthetic fuel facility in Secunda, Mpumalanga 

This partnership represents a significant step forward in using next-generation connectivity to drive greater operational efficiency and digital transformation in heavy industry.

Victor Bester, Sasol’s executive vice-president of operations and projects, explained, “As part of Sasol's digitalisation journey, there is a focus on utilising technology to improve processes that impact safety and efficiency across our facilities. This initiative allows us to accelerate these efforts through improved connectivity and control of the mobile network deployed at our Secunda production facility. Our collaboration with Vodacom Business creates opportunities for us to do things differently and grow our digital maturity. We look forward to the positive impact this advanced connectivity solution will have on our operations.”

Vodacom’s MPN is designed to offer tailored, secure, and high-performance mobile network access – critical for large-scale, high-stakes environments like Sasol’s. Peter Malebye, managing executive at Vodacom Business, said, “Our MPN solution provides a dedicated, secure, and high-performance mobile network tailored to meet the specific needs of Sasol's operations. It delivers the scalability and reliability required to ensure continuity for its mission-and business-critical applications.”

According to Malebye, this level of connectivity enables far more than just smoother communication. “When all of this comes together, an organisation can ultimately bring in other innovations, such as digital twins or enable remote and autonomous operations to improve planning,” he added.

Instead of using Wi-Fi to connect around 3,000 staff across Sasol’s vast facility—which would require an enormous and costly infrastructure rollout—the MPN creates a smarter, more streamlined solution. By integrating Vodacom’s network with Sasol’s internal systems, the site now benefits from better-connected employees, equipment, and assets.

This shift not only enhances real-time monitoring but also boosts safety and compliance, enables more effective asset management, improves team collaboration, and sharpens overall operational performance. Crucially, MPNs deliver consistent coverage in areas where public mobile networks may be patchy or completely unavailable.

Unlike public mobile networks, an MPN provides exclusive access, meaning the network can be fine-tuned for specific operational needs. These networks offer increased control, robust security, and ultra-low latency.

What’s more, data processed via the MPN stays entirely on-site—an essential feature for mission-critical operations like Sasol’s, where high uptime and minimal latency are non-negotiable.

“While MPNs are becoming increasingly relevant in a South African context, they are not yet as widespread as traditional public mobile networks,” Malebye noted. “Vodacom Business has been a pioneer in developing tailored MPN offerings for our clients in the southern African region. When Sasol turned to us to embark on this digital journey, it was a privilege for us to walk alongside them and provide them with solutions they needed to transform their operations while making a positive impact on our country's industrial sector.”

MTN rolls out bioSIM and eSIM solutions to cut plastic waste and promote sustainability in telecom

Mobile

MTN has taken a major step towards reducing plastic waste across its operations by introducing a biodegradable alternative to traditional SIM cards

In 2024, the telecom giant began rolling out bioSIMs—SIM cards made entirely from biodegradable, FSC-certified paper—in Rwanda, with expansion underway across other African markets.

Unlike conventional plastic SIM cards, bioSIMs decompose naturally, leaving behind no microplastics or harmful residue. The cards offer the same functionality as their plastic counterparts but are designed with long-term environmental impact in mind. With over 4.5 billion plastic SIM cards produced globally in 2020 alone, MTN's initiative presents a practical and scalable solution to an often overlooked source of telecom-related pollution.

The initiative comes as the continent braces for a significant increase in plastic waste. Sub-Saharan Africa’s annual plastic waste is expected to reach 116 million tonnes by 2060—a sixfold jump from 2019. MTN’s move is a response to both the waste crisis and the broader climate challenges that disproportionately affect Africa, despite the region contributing only 3–4% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Alongside bioSIMs, MTN is also expanding the adoption of eSIMs, which eliminate the need for a physical card entirely. Together, these innovations support more sustainable choices for consumers and help cut tonnes of plastic from the telecom supply chain.

As World Environment Day 2025 calls for urgent action on plastic pollution, MTN’s bioSIM initiative underscores the role of design and innovation in building more responsible connectivity.

Satellite connectivity boosts education in South Sudan and Uganda. (Image source: Intelsat)

Satellite

Intelsat, operator of one of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial networks, has announced a landmark partnership with the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative (WPDI), founded by Academy Award-winning actor and humanitarian Forest Whitaker

This collaboration aims to transform educational access in conflict-affected areas across Africa by delivering high-speed satellite internet to WPDI’s Community Learning Centers in South Sudan and Uganda, regions where infrastructure remains limited or disrupted.

Through this three-year partnership, Intelsat will provide managed connectivity services, satellite equipment, installation, and ongoing technical support to 10 centres— seven in South Sudan and three in Uganda. This initiative marks the first time these WPDI sites will have reliable internet access, opening the door to modern digital education for thousands of young people in underserved communities.

“Education is the foundation for peace,” said Forest Whitaker. “At WPDI, we use technology as a conduit to opportunity, bringing knowledge to young people whose lives have been upended by violence and political unrest. With the right tools, youths can reclaim their futures to become powerful agents of peace in their communities.”

This partnership addresses the urgent issue of digital inequality. According to the International Telecommunication Union, only 19% of people in the least developed countries, such as South Sudan and Uganda, use the internet. The numbers are even lower in conflict-affected regions, creating severe obstacles to education and economic opportunity. By enhancing digital access, WPDI and Intelsat aim to equip learners with the tools to build stronger, more resilient communities.

“At Intelsat, we are great believers in the power of connectivity to promote education and sustainable development around the world,” said Dave Wajsgras, CEO of Intelsat. “Forest Whitaker and WPDI’s efforts represent exactly the kind of transformative work that satellite communications can enable. We’re proud to support WPDI’s efforts to bring young people together, close the digital divide, and create pathways to prosperity in communities that need it most.”

The connectivity enabled by Intelsat will allow WPDI to expand its educational reach, giving students access to digital tools, online courses, and virtual collaboration programs previously unavailable in these remote areas. Learners will also gain digital literacy skills, complementing WPDI’s training in conflict resolution, entrepreneurship, and community development. Many WPDI alumni have become leaders in their communities, such as Benson Lugwar, a former child soldier now serving as an elected official and radio host in Uganda.

Yas Comoros secures US$27mn IFC loan to expand broadband and 5G services

Commerce

Yas Comoros, a subsidiary of AXIAN Telecom, has announced a new partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to fuel the next stage of digital development across the Union of the Comoros

This collaboration will support the expansion of mobile and fixed broadband infrastructure, promoting economic advancement and greater digital inclusion throughout the islands.

Under the terms of the agreement, IFC will provide a €25 million loan (approx. US$26.75mn) to accelerate infrastructure rollouts, boost network quality, and improve inter-island connectivity. This builds on the IFC’s initial €13 million (approx. US$13.91mn) loan provided in 2019, which supported Yas Comoros’ network launch after being awarded the country’s second telecom licence. That earlier loan, IFC’s first private sector investment in Comoros, was fully repaid in June 2025.

Now undergoing rapid expansion, Yas Comoros is the fastest-growing brand within the AXIAN Telecom group. This new funding will enable the company to meet increasing demand for data services, improve service standards, and invest in advanced technologies such as 5G, fibre to the home (FTTH), and fibre to the office (FTTO), with rollout beginning in 2025.

“This loan is an opportunity not only to modernise our network but also to invest in advanced technologies from 2025, including 5G rollout, FTTH, and FTTO, and thus accelerate the digitisation of the Union of the Comoros over the next five years,” commented Christophe Oliver, CEO of Yas Comoros. “We are committed to delivering improved connectivity solutions across the board, for consumers, SMEs, corporates, and public sector institutions, in alignment with the government’s digital vision,” he continued.

“This partnership with AXIAN Telecom marks a pivotal step in IFC’s commitment to accelerating digital transformation in Comoros and across Africa. This partnership not only supports the country’s digital ambitions, but also unlocks pathways for innovation, financial inclusion, and economic opportunity for all Comorians, especially women, youth, and rural communities,” said Mehita Fanny, IFC country manager for Comoros, Eswatini, Madagascar, Mozambique and Seychelles. “Investing in digital infrastructure is central to IFC’s strategy to foster sustainable development, empower local entrepreneurs, and ensure that no one is left behind in the digital age.”

Commenting on the development, minister of post, communications, digital economy and transparency of Comoros, Oumouri Mmadi Hassani said, “This loan of 25 million EUR granted to Yas Comoros by the IFC represents a key milestone for the telecommunications sector in the Comoros. It will contribute to the expansion and modernization of digital infrastructures, thus providing better connectivity to our entire population, particularly in rural areas. It will also support key projects to stimulate innovation and digital inclusion, enhancing the competitiveness of our businesses and contributing to the country's digital transformation. This is a strong commitment to a sustainable digital future, which will promote economic growth and the well-being of Comorians. We are pleased about the effective involvement of the IFC, which, through this financing, contributes significantly to the development of Comoros' digital economy with unparalleled transparency.”

Brady has launched a dedicated online hub focused on Electrical Identification. (Image source: Brady)

Power

Looking for durable, compliant, and time-saving electrical labelling solutions? Brady's new Electrical Identification webpage is the go-to hub for electricians and installers needing expert guidance, professional-grade label printing tools, and compliant cable identification systems.

In the world of electrical installation, accurate labelling and identification are not just helpful—they're essential. Whether you're working on complex wiring systems, commercial fit-outs, or routine maintenance, having the right electrical identification tools can dramatically improve safety, efficiency, and compliance.

To support electricians, contractors, and electrical engineers, Brady has launched a dedicated online hub focused on electrical identification. This new webpage offers expert advice, robust labelling solutions, and practical tools designed to help you get the job done right—first time, every time.

Visit the Electrical Identification hub now!

Why electrical identification is essential

From wire and cable labelling to panel and component identification, professional-grade labelling helps ensure:

• Compliance with regulations

• Clear system layouts for future maintenance and troubleshooting

• Faster fault diagnosis and reduced downtime

• Safer working environments for everyone on site

brady2Brady’s new hub simplifies the selection of electrical label printers, materials, and application techniques, ensuring you find the right solution for any project or environment.
What’s inside the Electrical Identification Hub?

The Brady EMEA Electrical Identification webpage is a one-stop resource for everything related to electrical labelling and industrial label printing. Here’s what you can expect:

• Electrical label printing solutions – browse professional printers and software built for electrical environments
• Wire, cable & terminal labels – select from heat-shrink, self-laminating, wrap-around, and other specialised label types
• Label selection tools – easily identify the best materials for indoor, outdoor, and industrial conditions
• Tutorials & videos – learn application best practices and get hands-on with printer setup and use
• Durability insights – see which labels resist abrasion, oils, moisture, UV, and extreme temperatures

Why choose Brady for electrical labelling?

With a strong reputation in industrial identification, Brady provides solutions that stand up to the real-world challenges electricians face. Brady products are known for:

• Durability – long-lasting adhesion and print legibility, even in tough conditions

• Smart technology – portable, user-friendly label printers with mobile and desktop connectivity

• Customisation – print on-demand, on-site labels for wires, breakers, junction boxes, and more

• Compliance support – stay aligned with labelling requirements

Brady's tools are trusted by professionals across the industry for their reliability, efficiency, and precision.

Get started with better labelling today

Whether you're preparing a new installation or upgrading an existing system, Brady’s Electrical Identification hub is a powerful resource to help you label faster, smarter, and more confidently.

BRADY EMEA
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www.brady.eu

NEC XON expands services to strengthen cybersecurity across South Africa and beyond

Security

NEC XON, a leading IT security solutions provider, has announced a major step forward in its service offering

The company has expanded its managed services portfolio to include full-scale Fortinet device management, a move already implemented at two of South Africa’s largest clothing retail chains.

This development comes at a critical time, as businesses across South Africa grapple with complex security needs and evolving cyber threats. The new managed service aims to enhance Fortinet performance, reduce system downtime, and deliver a stronger layer of protection.

A recent S&P Global Market Intelligence report presented at RSAC 2025 highlights the increasing reliance on managed security services (MSS). Nearly 29% of organisations now use MSS to support or replace their in-house teams. Meanwhile, 23% are consolidating security resources and 28% are downsizing their security teams – a risky decision amid rising threat levels. Another 37% report no major changes, suggesting stagnation in their security posture.

A South African response to a global challenge

“We are dedicated to providing top-tier support to help businesses stay secure and operational. That’s not just a slogan — it’s a promise South African companies urgently need,” commented Grant Ferreira, regional manager security at NEC XON. “We are very excited to have launched the expansion of our managed services to meet the growing security demands of our customers. With our team of certified experts, we have had great success with the expanded services in the coastal regions of South Africa and are in the process of rolling out the project to the rest of SA and Africa.”

More than just another device

As a certified Fortinet partner, NEC XON is delivering more than just another IT service. What sets this offering apart is the combination of top-tier technology with a people-first approach. Fortinet’s firewalls and secure networking solutions are industry leaders, but it’s the flexibility and support around them that makes the NEC XON approach unique.

With both onsite and remote support options, the company meets customers where they are – whether they need engineers on the ground or hands-off remote monitoring. That adaptability is especially important for businesses in smaller towns or rural regions that may not have the technical resources or budget to manage advanced infrastructure.

NEC XON’s team includes certified engineers skilled in Secure Connectivity, SD-WAN and Security Operations – closing the technical gap with confidence.

Backed by Fortinet’s elite programmes

NEC XON also brings serious credentials to the table, with access to Fortinet’s Engage Preferred Services Partner (EPSP) and Expert Technical Support (ETSP) programs. These designations represent more than vendor recognition – they enable advanced support like in-depth troubleshooting, specialised configuration, and tailored training that clients can rely on.

Cybersecurity with real economic impact

The value of this service goes beyond technology. By helping businesses avoid downtime, prevent breaches and improve operational efficiency, NEC XON is also contributing to a more resilient digital economy.

In South Africa, where energy uncertainty, strained public services and rising risks are the norm, solid cybersecurity remains one of the few controllable aspects of business infrastructure. It is an investment that pays off – not only in business continuity but in trust and confidence.

 

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