Author: David Indeje

Today, with 150 million startups worldwide and another 50 million launching annually, innovation and creativity are reshaping industries.  However, roughly 1 in 5 startups fail in the first year because of various difficulties, from financial struggles to poor product-market fit.  Recognizing this, OPPO actively engages with startups, providing essential support to help them navigate obstacles and bring their innovations to fruition. “At OPPO, we understand the diverse needs of startups. We offer comprehensive support, including funding, technology, and marketing, to foster their growth and extend the benefits of technology to more people. Through these strategies, startups such as AlpsenTek, HUAYI, and CloudSteth are expected…

Airtel Africa is considering an initial public offering (IPO) for its mobile money unit, Airtel Money. The potential valuation could exceed $4 billion. According to Bloomberg, the company is considering listing on stock exchanges like those in the UAE, London, and other European markets.  However, a final decision has yet to be made, and the exact timing and valuation of the IPO remain unclear. In 2021, investments from TPG ($200 million) and Mastercard ($100 million) valued Airtel Money at $2.65 billion. Airtel Africa previously indicated an intention to take the unit public within four years of that time (2021). Airtel Africa…

Equity Group has been ranked second in Brand Finance’s 2024 brand strength and value rankings, solidifying its position as one of the world’s strongest banking brands. Equity climbed from fourth place in 2023 to second in the world’s top 10 strongest banking brands, boasting a Brand Strength Index score of 92.5 out of 100 and an elite AAA+ brand strength rating. Equity’s brand value also substantially increased, soaring by $22 million from $428 million last year to $450 million (about KSh 64 billion). This placed Equity as Africa’s tenth most valuable banking brand, showcasing its remarkable growth and influence in…

Standard Chartered Kenya recorded a 14.9% increase in earnings per share (EPS) to KES 36.17 billion for the 2023 fiscal year, up from KES 31.5 in the same period last year. The lender’s dividends per share were up 31.8% to KES 29.00, translating to a payout ratio of 80.1%. The bank’s net profit climbed to Sh13.8 billion, representing solid year-on-year growth. This positive performance translated directly to dividends, with the total payout rising to Sh10.96 billion. “A double-digit growth in revenue is a very pleasing number to be able to deliver. It is about ensuring that we are sticking to…

Unseen Cinema’s partnership with Sudu Connexion comes to a close this March with a special screening of Moussa Sène Absa’s “Xalé.” This poignant film, Senegal’s entry for the 2023 Oscars, tells the story of Awa, a 15-year-old whose world crumbles after a devastating family event.  It follows the moving story of Awa, a schoolgirl happily living her teenage years alongside her twin brother Adama, who dreams of Europe.  When their grandmother dies, her aunt Fatou and her uncle Atoumane promise to marry to preserve the family union. But Fatou does not love Atoumane, and the latter, tired of waiting to…

As the world observed International Women’s Day 2023, it was an opportune moment to reflect on the persistent gender gap within the logistics and supply chain industries.  The sector plays a crucial role in the global economy and is responsible for efficiently moving goods and services across international borders, facilitating global trade and economic growth. Despite this crucial role, this industry continues to grapple with a significant gender imbalance, with women remaining underrepresented at all levels.  According to a 2021 report by Gartner, women make up only 41% of the supply chain workforce, a figure that has remained stagnant for several…