The United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, will visit South Africa from 13 to 15 May 2024 to support national and local authorities’ road safety initiatives. In particular, the Special Envoy will launch the UN Global Campaign for Road Safety, in partnership with the No.1 outdoor advertising company worldwide, JCDecaux, under the hashtag #MakeASafetyStatement.  

One of the main goals of this campaign is to raise awareness of life-saving actions among young generations, who as statistics show, are the major victims of road crashes especially for young people aged from 5 to 29 years old worldwide. Supporting the efforts of South Africa in addressing this issue is key in a country where more than 60% of the population is under 35 years old. 

The launch events are to be held in Johannesburg and Pretoria with the participation of the Minister of Transport of South Africa and the Executive Mayors of Tshwane and Johannesburg.   

Mr. Todt will meet members of the Government as well as representatives of the private and public sectors and NGOs to advocate for the effective implementation of the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, which aims to halve the number of road fatalities by 2030.  

“Africa is the continent most affected by road crashes. Knowing that these affect the youngest first, it is beyond the human tragedy, an economic devastation sacrificing or invalidating for life the active force of a country. While the vaccine to avoid this carnage on the road exists, I urgently call on everyone to use it,” said the Special Envoy.

#MakeASafetyStatement 

Ten South African celebrities including Yvonne Chaka-Chaka, Bryoni Govender, Dr. Khumalo, Sello Maake Ka Ncube, Maduvha Madima, Leanne Manas, Dr. Moratwe Masima, Thokozani Ndaba, Gaisang Noge, and Caster Semenya, will join the campaign’s worldwide ambassadors to encourage users to adopt simple but effective rules to keep their roads safe. 

“Human Factors contribute 88% to South African road fatalities and therefore the involvement of celebrities as role models for the Youth in the #MakeASafetyStatement campaign will contribute towards the reduction of accidents on our roads,” stressed Ms. Sindisiwe Lydia Chikunga, Minister of Transport of the Republic of South Africa. 

New alarming figures 

The Special Envoy’s visit coincides with the recent release of the Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023 from the World Health Organization (WHO) on road safety, highlighting that Africa remains the region the most affected by this tragedy. 

According to the WHO report, the number of victims on African roads continues to grow with a mortality rate of 19/100,000 people, while in Europe, we observe a rate of 7 deaths/100,000 people. In South Africa, there are 25 deaths per 100,000 people.  

According to the World Bank (2026), the cost of road crashes represented 8.6% of South Africa’s GDP in 2016.  The RTMC 2023 State of Road safety Report highlights for 2023 the rate of 2.74% of South Africa ‘s GDP.    

Reliable data for swift revitalization 

Recent bus accidents have highlighted the run-down state of Africa’s vehicle fleet. Failure to comply with the Highway Code and to enforce penalties are also significant causes of accidents.  

Solutions to be implemented include adhering to the African Road Safety Charter and the United Nations Conventions on Road Safety, strengthening the health services that treat the injured and stepping up public awareness campaigns. Systematically collecting reliable data on road accidents and monitoring casualties is also a key element in reducing the number of victims. 

There is also a need to protect the most vulnerable road users, pedestrians, and cyclists, who are often the most disadvantaged and the youngest. Africa has the highest proportion of cyclist and pedestrian deaths, accounting for 44% of all road deaths.  

In South Africa, the efforts of the authorities are to be commended, with new initiatives such as the implementation of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences, the adoption of new technologies to enhance access to traffic licensing services (National Traffic Information System Online Services), the professionalization of the Traffic and Road Safety Officers Training through the National Framework Level 6 Qualification), Standardization and Harmonization of Traffic Law Enforcement and the development of a National Traffic Law Enforcement Code.   

Risk factors that are too often neglected 

Drink-driving, speeding, drowsiness, carelessness, non-use of seatbelts and helmets, negligence and non-compliance with the Highway Code are responsible for most road accidents in Africa. However, according to the WHO, more progress must be made regarding legislation and safety standards.   

Only six countries in the world have laws that comply with WHO best practices for all the risk factors – speeding, driving under the influence or distracted driving, use of UN-standard motorbike helmets, and use of seatbelts and child restraints. 

In South Africa, speeding in urban areas is high (60KM/h), and child restraint systems are not always available. At a time when the use of motorbikes is on the increase, particularly among young people, the wearing of seatbelts and quality helmets remains a real challenge, even though it could prevent many deaths and reduce the risk of serious injury by 69%.  

Recent data reveal that the majority of road crashes occur at night from Friday till Sunday with youth and pedestrians being the lead victims.   

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).

GITEX Africa 2024 (www.GITEXAfrica.com), the continent’s largest tech and startup exhibition scheduled from 29-31 May in Marrakech, Morocco, emerges as a pivotal platform for exploring the intersections of digital transformation, financial inclusion, and economic empowerment. As South Africa’s banking of finance sector takes center stage in this global dialogue, the event promises to be a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and growth.

In South Africa, digital transformation has become imperative across industries, and the financial sector is no exception. From the convenience of online banking to mobile payment solutions, banks are leveraging digital technologies to enhance efficiency, improve customer experience, and expand access to financial services.

With a growing youth population favoring digital banking, financial institutions are investing in user-friendly mobile apps and online platforms to meet evolving customer preferences.

Banks Face Competition from Fintech and Innovative Platforms

These digital banking platforms provide users with convenient access to a wide range of financial services, including account management, payments, and lending, all through intuitive user-friendly mobile and online interfaces.

However, amidst this digital transformation, banks face stiff competition from a diverse array of players, including agile fintech startups and innovative tech-driven platforms. These disruptors offer innovative solutions that challenge traditional norms and cater to evolving customer needs.

South African fintech startups, recognized locally and globally, provide convenient digital banking services, investment platforms, and innovative lending solutions, drawing customers away from traditional banks with their agility and customer-centric approach. In 2021, South Africa boasted the highest number of fintech startups in the African region with 154 companies (https://apo-opa.co/3KjmVTL). As of May 2022, fintech startups in South Africa secured close to $US77 million (https://apo-opa.co/3ys79ms).

The fintech value chain encompasses a wide range of services including banking, infrastructure, crowdfunding, digital currencies, lending, payment, and regulation technology.

By facilitating dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing, GITEX Africa accelerates the pace of digital transformation in the financial services sector, driving inclusive growth and economic empowerment across the African continent. Among the more than 35 esteemed speakers from South Africa include Lillian Barnard, President at Microsoft Africa; Zondwa Mandela from Mandela Legacy; and Chipo Mushwana, Executive of Emerging Innovation and Payments, Nedbank.

Major South African investment funds, unicorns, and start-ups fast-forwarding cross-continental progress at GITEX AFRICA 2024 include SAVANT, Zindi, and go1.

Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, said: “Africa has long been recognised for its formidable growth prospects and AI is the long-awaited key to help unlock that potential.”

“The AI-powered innovation we’re seeing today is poised to reinvent every aspect of society from healthcare to financial services, manufacturing and beyond. If Africa is to benefit from the paradigm shift currently sweeping the globe, we must make the promise of AI real for people and organisations across the continent – and do so responsibly.”

Hands-on Support Required for Startups

Bongani Sithole, CEO of Founders Factory Africa and a speaker at GITEX Africa outlines key challenges facing African startups: difficulties in finding product-market fit, hiring the right talent, maintaining company culture while expanding into new markets and securing funding.

Despite these challenges, Sithole highlights opportunities for startups to tap into, including the “development of new products and services to meet the needs of their growing customer base. This can lead to increased innovation and competitiveness.”    

In terms of specific trends within the African startup ecosystem, Sithole says we can expect to see more mergers and acquisitions (M&As) continue this year, primarily driven by larger companies seeking to acquire earlier-stage companies. “M&As are strengthening the startup ecosystem by offering a guarantee of revenue and funding for founders.” Additionally, he notes the potential of AI applications to address societal challenges and drive economic growth.

As Africa’s tech ecosystem evolves, he sees opportunities for cross-regional collaboration through initiatives like cross-border agreements for trade and talent, full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), fast-tracking of regulatory approvals.

Reflecting on lessons from leading African unicorns, he highlights the importance of solving societal problems and embracing failure as part of the startup journey. “Many successful founders are not first-time successes. Founders are encouraged to remain within the ecosystem even after failures to create potential unicorn by leveraging their experience.”

At GITEX Africa, Sithole aims to emphasize the importance of “hands-on support” for early-stage ventures beyond just capital. He also hopes to develop actionable steps to stimulate innovation and funding across Africa, advancing the tech and startup ecosystems.

Financial Inclusion and Economic Empowerment

Recognizing the significance of digital transformation, the South African government has taken proactive steps to promote financial inclusion and economic growth. In 2023, the National Treasury released a policy framework to broaden financial inclusion (https://apo-opa.co/4bff3OC), to achieve 90 percent banked status by 2030. This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to leveraging digital technologies to drive socioeconomic development and create opportunities for all South Africans.

While progress has been significant, challenges persist, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to ensure equal access to financial services. As South Africa continues to ride the wave of digital finance, the possibilities are boundless. By embracing innovation and strengthening collaboration, the country is charting a journey toward a brighter and more equitable future for all.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.

Media Contact: 
Tayce Marchesi – PR Executive 
Tel.: + 971 58 552 3994 
Tayce.Marchesi@dwtc.com 

On social media:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3JwCSp0
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3Qjatqj
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/3w8Pbom
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3QluZGW
Youtube: https://apo-opa.co/3UdDFAb
Hashtag: #GITEXAFRICA
Website: www.GITEXAfrica.com

About KAOUN International:
KAOUN International is the independent events company and wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) established to organize and manage events internationally. Derived from the Arabic word ‘universe’, KAOUN International’s mission is to ‘Create Limitless Connections’ for the industries and markets in which it operates. Created to leverage the 40-year legacy of DWTC’s events management business and drive future MICE sector opportunity in the MENASA region. KAOUN International delivers game-changing live experiences that build robust business connections, create opportunity, and stimulate economic growth, building on DWTC’s extensive portfolio of business and consumer events spanning multiple sectors, including technology, food and hospitality, sustainability, broadcast and satellite, automotive, talent development and leisure marine.

The Egyptian authorities have intensified their crackdown against protesters, striking workers and people voicing criticism online over the authorities’ handling of the economic crisis, said Amnesty International today.

Between January and March 2024, Amnesty International documented four cases of arbitrary arrest and detention of individuals in three governorates who complained about price hikes in comments on social media. Authorities also questioned dozens of workers from a public sector company who participated in a strike in February demanding to be paid the minimum wage; with two still arbitrarily detained. Security forces also dispersed a demonstration in March, where protesters blamed President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi for “starving” the poor, and arrested protesters.

“The Egyptian government is once again resorting to repressive tactics to crush the slightest form of dissent, whether peaceful protest, workers’ strikes or people simply venting their frustrations in a social media post. Rather than arresting individuals for speaking out about deteriorating living conditions, the Egyptian authorities must take effective steps to fulfil people’s social and economic rights, including those bearing the brunt of the economic crisis,” said Sara Hashash, Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty International.

“Egyptian authorities must respect the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly and immediately release all those arbitrarily detained solely for the exercise of these rights.”

Much of the anger over the economic crisis has been directed at the government and President al-Sisi who in a controversial speech in September 2023, said hunger and deprivation were acceptable sacrifices for development and progress.

Arbitrary detentions over social media posts

Amnesty International documented cases of four individuals who were arbitrarily arrested between January and March 2024 for posting social media content criticizing the government’s handling of the economic crisis or complaining about rising prices.

According to the Egyptian Front for Human Rights (EFHR) and a human rights lawyer, Egyptian security forces arrested four people from their homes or workplaces in al-Dakhlia, al-Sharkia, and Giza governorates. The Supreme State Security Prosecution (SSSP) opened investigations against them into bogus terrorism-related charges and publishing “false news”. All four remained in pretrial detention at the time of writing.

One employee in a private business who was arrested on 14 March from his workplace in Giza told SSSP prosecutors that he was only arrested because he posted a video on Facebook complaining about the high cost of his mother’s medication.

Prior to bringing them before the SSSP, the authorities subjected the four detainees to enforced disappearance for periods ranging between two to nine days while holding them in National Security Agency (NSA) offices in the cities of Mansoura, Zagazig and 6th of October.

Security forces arrested one of the men on 11 February from his house in al-Dakhlia, then subjected him to torture and other ill-treatment while he was forcibly disappeared at an NSA office, according to EFHR. Amnesty International reviewed the TikTok videos that led to his detention. In one of these videos, he criticized President al-Sisi’s national projects, blamed him for people’s hunger, and criticized the continuously rising prices in supermarkets. The man told the prosecution that NSA officials beat him and gave him electric shocks. However, the prosecution has not investigated his complaint nor referred him for forensic examination.

Targeting striking workers

In February, President al-Sisi set the monthly minimum wage for public sector workers at 6,000 EGP (around 125 USD). On 22 February, thousands of workers at Ghazl Al Mahla textile company, a public sector enterprise in al- Gharbiya governorate, took part in a strike demanding an increase in meal allowances and salary rises to meet the new national minimum wage, according to the Center for Trade Union&Workers Services (CTUWS), an Egyptian NGO. On 29 February, the workers ended the strike after the Minister of Public Business Sector issued on a decree on 25 February setting the minimum wage for all public enterprises to 6,000 EGP.

CTUWS told Amnesty International that during the strike the NSA summoned about 28 workers, questioned them without a lawyer, and held them incommunicado for periods ranging between one to three days. All were released except for two workers who were referred to the SSSP which opened investigations against them into bogus charges of “joining a terrorist group” and publishing “false news”. They remained in pretrial detention at the time of writing.

Dispersing peaceful protests  

On 15 March, police dispersed dozens of peaceful protesters demonstrating in al-Dakhilah, Alexandria governorate, over the rising cost of living, arresting an unknown number according to local media. Videos of the protest circulated on X, formerly Twitter, showed protesters raising signs that read “you made us hungry, Sisi.” Police transferred the detainees to an NSA office in Alexandria, according to Ahmed Al Attar, executive director of the Egyptian Network for Human Rights, an independent rights group.

Among those arrested was a non-commissioned army officer who was forcibly disappeared for at least five days before being referred to Alexandria military court. On 23 April, the court sentenced him to eight years in prison and ordered his dismissal from the army, according to informed sources. The charges against him have not been publicly disclosed. Human rights lawyers told Amnesty International that they have no information as to whether the rest of the arrested protesters were prosecuted or released without charge.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Amnesty International.