News in brief:

Getac has unveiled at GITEX AFRICA 2024 (www.GITEXAFRICA.com) the new S510, the world’s first AI-ready rugged laptop [1], aimed at professionals in the utilities, public safety, manufacturing, and automotive industries
Its combination of powerful performance and rugged reliability enables AI-based applications to be used with confidence
In keeping with Getac’s sustainable design mandate, the S510’s chassis is partly comprised of post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials

Getac showcased at GITEX AFRICA 2024 its brand-new AI-ready S510 rugged laptop, enabling organisations across industries such as utilities, public safety, manufacturing and automotive to utilise the power of edge AI on a daily basis.

An AI-ready device that’s built for enhanced productivity

The new S510 enables workers to capitalise on the significant productivity benefits of AI-based applications. An Intel® CoreTM Ultra 5/7 processor with Intel® AI Boost and Intel® Graphics put powerful performance at users’ fingertips, while a dedicated Microsoft Copilot key quickly awakens AI capabilities whenever needed.

The S510 combines this innovative feature set with MIL-STD-810H and IP53 certifications, alongside 3ft (0.9m) drop and vibration resistance, giving users the peace of mind they need to work with confidence. The S510 also boasts a 15.6-inch display with 1,000 nits of brightness and Getac sunlight-readable technology for optimal versatility in a variety of light conditions. In addition, the device provides robust connectivity options, including WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 as standard, with optional 4G-LTE and 5G Sub-6 capabilities to keep users connected.

Despite its large screen and rugged credentials, the S510 weighs just 2.35kg (5.18lbs) for easy carrying, while its hot-swappable battery capability supports full-shift operation. Its sustainable design also embodies Getac’s commitment to environmental responsibility, with a significant proportion of its chassis comprising of post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials.

The S510 can be configured based on individual customer needs, with options including dual Thunderbolt 4 ports for faster data transfer, up to 64GB DDR5 (8GB as standard) and up to 2TB of PCIe NVMe SSD storage (256GB as standard). Further options include a laser barcode reader, DVD super multi drive, second storage drive, and/or NVIDIA GPU.

Powering the next generation of AI-based applications

The S510’s powerful specification and rugged credentials make it the ideal hardware platform for a diverse range of AI-based applications. For example, public safety professionals can minimise ambient background noise when conducting interviews and taking witness statements, improving recording clarity. Automotive maintenance professionals can speed up the diagnostics process through real-time algorithms. Manufacturing organisations continue to adopt intelligent and autonomous capabilities and enhance their supply chain. Meanwhile, utilities professionals can use AI-based applications to rapidly analyse field data and identify critical infrastructure issues before they result in costly unplanned downtime.

“AI PCs represent a new generation of personal computers with dedicated AI acceleration capabilities spread across the Central Processing Unit (CPU), Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) and Neural Processing Unit (NPU). Leading the charge in this space are PCs powered by Intel Core Ultra, which offer power-efficient AI acceleration and local inference capabilities on the PC. We are delighted to see Getac’s new S510 bringing this to a rugged platform and adding to the choice of Intel Core Ultra powered AI PCs out in the market,” says Grace Wang, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, General Manager of Intel Taiwan

“We’re only just beginning to scratch the surface of what’s possible when it comes to AI-based applications and the benefits they can bring to organisations across different industries,” says James Hwang, President of Getac Technology Corporation. “The new S510 brings together futureproof performance and rugged reliability in a compact and lightweight package, enabling users to implement the latest AI-based innovations with complete confidence.”

The new S510 is available now. For more information, visit www.Getac.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.

For more information contact:
Rhys Chi
+8862227857888
rhys.chi@getac.com

About Getac:
Getac Technology Corporation is a global leader in rugged mobile technology and intelligent video solutions, including laptops, tablets, software, body-worn cameras, in-car video systems, digital evidence management and enterprise video analytics solutions. Getac’s solutions and services are designed to enable extraordinary experiences for frontline workers in challenging environments. Today, Getac serves customers in over 100 countries spanning defence, public safety, ambulance, fire&rescue, utilities, automotive, natural resources, manufacturing, transport, and logistics. For more information, visit: http://www.Getac.com. Participate in the Getac Industry blog (https://apo-opa.co/3KuBGmJ) or follow the company on LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/3KuBGTL) and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3VfE0mh).

Getac and Getac logo are trademarks of Getac Holdings Corporation or its affiliates. Other brands or trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2024 Getac Technology Corporation.

KWIKS.io, the next-generation recruitment platform, has reached a significant milestone by participating in the prestigious Gitex Africa 2024 (https://GITEXAfrica.com). This event has enabled KWIKS.io to demonstrate its innovative technology based on AI and data, creating exceptional opportunities in terms of clients and investments.

Exponential Growth Opportunities

Participating in Gitex Africa has been a true catalyst for KWIKS.io. The event attracted the attention of numerous potential clients and investors, paving the way for strategic collaborations and promising partnerships. Thanks to our presence at Gitex Africa, we were able to present our revolutionary vision of recruitment, which led to a significant increase in our client base and sparked the interest of major investors ready to support our future growth.

Cutting-Edge Technology: AI and Data at the Core of KWIKS.io

KWIKS.io stands out through its advanced integration of artificial intelligence and data analysis into its services. This technology allows us to efficiently connect businesses worldwide with independent recruiters and headhunters, optimizing the recruitment process. By combining AI and data, we offer personalized and efficient solutions, reducing the time and costs associated with traditional recruitment.

A Vision for the Future

Participating in Gitex Africa is just the beginning of our journey. KWIKS.io is determined to continue innovating and pushing the boundaries of recruitment. We are proud to represent Morocco on the international stage and to demonstrate that Africa has nothing to envy from other continents in terms of technology and innovation.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.

For more information, please contact:
Amine Khayatei
CEO
www.KWIKS.io
Email: amine.khayatei@kwiksourcing.com
Phone: +212 6 20 19 20 80
Website: www.KWIKS.io

About KWIKS.io:
KWIKS.io is a revolutionary recruitment platform that democratizes access to quality recruitment services by connecting businesses with independent recruiters and headhunters worldwide. Our AI and data-driven technology optimizes recruitment processes, offering fast, efficient, and personalized solutions.

Global oil demand is projected to grow 10% by 2028 and 16% by 2045. For African service providers, this presents an opportunity to support operational excellence across oil and gas projects while promoting low-carbon solutions. Africa’s premier event – African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy – spoke with Jorge de Morais, General Manager of Angolan-based oilfield services company Kaeso Energy Services, one of Angola’s leading oilfield services’ companies, about its innovative approach to oilfield services.

AEW: Invest in African Energy is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

How does Kaeso’s experience and innovative approach to oilfield services differentiate the company from others in the industry?

At Kaeso, our leadership team’s combined experience of many decades significantly differentiates us within the oilfield services sector. This deep-rooted expertise informs our strategic approach, which is anchored in five foundational pillars: leveraging local workforce, introducing strong value-added niche products, maintaining robust infrastructure, ensuring competitive pricing and upholding a robust foundation of ethics, safety, quality and trust.

How does Kaeso’s approach to asset management help clients realize value through sustainability and digitalization? How does the company balance operational excellence with decarbonization?

Our partnership with Global Gravity to offer Tubelock technology revolutionizes tubular handling, minimizing physical damage and reducing the associated carbon emissions from transportation and handling. Kaeso Equipment Management System utilizes cutting-edge digital tools to optimize equipment usage and maintenance schedules. Our Metal Structure Repair and Construction services focus on extending the life of metal structures, which is crucial for minimizing environmental impact.

Balancing operational excellence with decarbonization is at the forefront of our business model. We employ a strategic mix of technology and traditional methods to ensure that our operations are not only efficient but also progressively less carbon-intensive.

Does the company have plans to expand its service offerings regionally? What markets stand out as being strategic for Kaeso’s long-term vision?

Expanding our service offerings regionally is a key part of our strategic vision at Kaeso. The positive results from our initial implementation of operations in Namibia have instilled confidence in our ability to replicate this success in other countries as well. Our goal is to enter regions where we can deliver significant value to our clients and make a positive impact on the local communities. Our expansion strategy is guided by thorough market research and client feedback. We prioritize regions where we can leverage our existing expertise while also contributing to local development.

In what ways does Kaeso’s consulting expertise add value to specific projects in the oilfield sector, and what criteria does the company use to match talents with company’s needs?

At Kaeso, our consulting expertise is strategically focused on filling gaps in the market, particularly where there’s a scarcity of local skill sets. A prime example of this is our involvement in a significant project centered on lifting training within the industry. We identified a clear void in market offerings and responded with tailored training modules that elevated the skill levels and safety standards of the workforce.

When it comes to matching talents with our company’s needs, we employ a rigorous criteria based on expertise, cultural fit, and a demonstrated passion for advancing safety and quality standards, particularly in areas like Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment and data analysis.

Please provide insight into Kaeso’s partnership with TUBOSTRANS for the Wellbore Clean Out Alliance. What other partnerships or contracts are in the pipeline?

This collaboration not only enhances our service offerings but also strengthens the local economy by leveraging local expertise and resources. It allows us to deliver services with a greater understanding of the local context, ensuring that our solutions are not only effective but also culturally and environmentally appropriate.

We have several exciting partnerships and contracts in the pipeline that highlight the value of local-based service providers. These collaborations are pivotal as they allow us to tap into local innovations and specialties, which are crucial for the industry’s growth. While we currently rely on foreign technology to deploy our services, our goal is to continue to foster and invest in local capabilities.

How will platforms such as AEW: Invest in African Energy support the company’s regional aspirations?

Platforms like AEW align perfectly with Kaeso’s regional aspirations, mainly due to the convergence of our objectives and values with those of the event. AEW is a prominent forum that emphasizes innovation, sustainable practices, and the development of local capacities within the energy sector across the continent.

Participating in such a platform allows us to showcase our capabilities, network with industry leaders, and forge partnerships that are crucial for our expansion plans. It also provides a vital opportunity to exchange ideas on best practices and emerging trends, helping us to stay at the forefront of technological and operational advancements.

What does the company hope to gain from this year’s event in terms of connections, deals and industry partnerships?

We see this event as a pivotal platform to initiate meaningful conversations that could lead to fruitful collaborations and deals. By showcasing our innovative solutions and demonstrating our commitment to sustainability and local development, we hope to attract partners who share our vision and values.

Additionally, connecting with potential hiring candidates will help us tap into local talent, enriching our team with individuals who can drive our regional operations forward. Engaging with investors at the event is also critical, as their support can accelerate our expansion plans and enhance our capability to deliver high-value projects across the region. Overall, our participation in this year’s event is expected to be a cornerstone for future growth, helping us to establish new partnerships and expand our industry footprint effectively.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (“ETI”) (www.Ecobank.com), the parent company of the Ecobank Group, today held its 36th Annual General Meeting in Lomé, Togo, which was followed by an Extraordinary General Meeting. Shareholders applauded the Group’s strong performance in 2023 with its net revenues exceeding US$2 billion mark for the first time in nearly 10 years. They also noted that this performance was achieved in the face of significant macro-economic headwinds such as high inflationary and interest rate environment, local currency depreciation, and geopolitical tensions.

The Group achieved profit before tax of US$581 million, up 8 per cent from US$540 million in 2022. In constant currency (i.e. excluding the adverse effects of translating local currencies into ETI’s reporting currency the US dollar), the increase in profit before tax is 34 per cent. The Group recorded a record low cost-to-income ratio of 54.9 per cent.

Alain Nkontchou, Chairman, Ecobank Group, said: “2023 was an encouraging year for our Group. Our organisation has shown resilience in a rapidly changing operating environment. The Board is proud of what our employees around the continent and in our affiliates in other regions have achieved, collectively and individually.”

Jeremy Awori, Chief Executive Officer, Ecobank Group, commented: “Ecobank delivered a strong performance in 2023, demonstrating the competitive advantages of our resilient, diversified business model and the early results of our new Growth, Transformation and Returns strategy.We demonstrated financial prudence by carefully managing our shareholders’ capital, ensuring customer satisfaction at every touchpoint, and making informed decisions about pricing our assets and liabilities. We are confident that our strategy is paving the way for our continued success and growth.”

The AGM also approved the appointments of Papa Madiaw Ndiaye, Louis Adande and Terence G. Sibiya as Non-Executive Directors succeeding the retiring Directors. Alain Nkontchou, Mfundo Nkuhlu and Hervé Assah stepped down from the Board after completing their terms of office.

Immediately after the General Meetings, the Board of Directors appointed Papa Madiaw Ndiaye as the incoming Chairman of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated. He is taking over from Alain Nkontchou. Papa Ndiaye is the Chief Executive Officer and Founding Partner of AFIG Funds, a leading private equity fund management company focused on Africa. He has a proven track record of leadership and the creation of shareholder value and a deep commitment to Ecobank’s mission and strategic agenda.

Papa Ndiaye, ETI’s new Chairman, said: “I have long admired Ecobank Group’s successful development across Africa, and I am looking forward to working with Jeremy and ETI’s Board to steer the Bank through the next and exciting phase of its journey. With its strong foundation and numerous competitive advantages, I see Ecobank as strongly positioned to accelerate its growth trajectory and play an even greater role in driving the continent’s economic development in this era of rapid technological changes.”

Jeremy added that: “With his strong experience and knowledge, particularly in investing in financial services, Papa Ndiaye’s appointment as ETI’s Chairman is a significant step in reinforcing our position as the leading pan-African banking Group. We are excited about the future under his guidance and look forward to achieving our Growth, Transformation and Returns strategy, while enhancing our service delivery.”

Ecobank has recently implemented its new Growth, Transformation and Returns strategy to create shareholder value and deliver sustainable growth. The strategy’s multiple initiatives and actions include entrenching its leadership position in affiliates in which it has high market shares; transforming its business performance in Nigeria and in subscale markets; solidifying its leadership in Corporate and Investment Banking; growing its Commercial Banking and Consumer Banking businesses; and growing volumes and total value on its payment ecosystem.

The Shareholders approved all the resolutions presented at the AGM, including the Approval of the Accounts, the Appropriation of the Profits, the renewal of mandates of Directors, and the election of Directors.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated.

Media Contact: 
Christiane Mbimbe Bossom, 
Group Corporate Communications Manager 
Email: groupcorporatecomms@ecobank.com 
Tel: +228 22 21 03 03 

About Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (‘ETI’ or ‘The Group’): 
Ecobank Group is the leading private pan-African banking group with unrivalled African expertise. Present in 35 sub-Saharan African countries, as well as France, the UK, UAE and China, its unique pan-African platform provides a single gateway for payments, cash management, trade and investment. The Group employs over 15,000 people and offers Consumer, Commercial, Corporate and Investment Banking products, services and solutions across multiple channels, including digital, to over 32 million customers. For further information, please visit Ecobank.com.