IT News Africa Announces Digital Finance Africa 2024: A Crucial Summit for FinTech Innovation

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, June 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Africa’s financial sector gears up for IT News Africa’s highly anticipated Digital Finance Africa 2024 conference, scheduled for July 4th at the prestigious Maslow Sandton. Under the theme “Empowering Africa’s Financial Future: FinTech Innovations for Inclusive Growth,” this year’s event promises a day of strategic insights and networking opportunities.

Abe Wakama, CEO of IT News Africa, highlighted the significance of this gathering, stating, “Digital Finance Africa 2024 is more than just a conference; it’s a pivotal gathering for Africa’s financial sector. As we convene on July 4th in Johannesburg, we’re not only addressing critical challenges but also exploring the vast opportunities within banking and FinTech across the continent. This event isn’t merely beneficial – it’s essential for anyone invested in Africa’s economic growth. Join us to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and shape the future of finance in Africa.”

Expert Speakers and Thought Leaders:

Digital Finance Africa 2024 boasts an impressive lineup of speakers, including industry stalwarts such as Coen Jonker (CEO and Founder, Tyme Bank), Frank Rizzo (Chief Design Officer, Discovery Bank), and Keneilwe Gwabeni (Group CIO, Assupol). The roster also includes executives from leading financial institutions and innovative startups, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of key topics shaping Africa’s financial landscape.

Key Topics and Agenda Highlights:

The conference agenda features thought-provoking sessions covering a wide range of topics, including navigating cybersecurity risks, the role of AI in banking, and the future of cryptocurrencies in Africa. Panel discussions and presentations will delve into pressing issues such as scaling and profitability challenges in African FinTech, capital constraints, and the evolving role of central banks in shaping a digital economy.

Discount Offer for Limited Period:

For a limited period, attendees can avail themselves of a 25% discount on registration fees by using the coupon code DFA@25OFF. This offer presents a valuable opportunity for industry professionals to engage with experts, network with peers, and gain insights into the latest trends and innovations in African FinTech.

Who Should Attend and Sponsor:

Digital Finance Africa 2024 is tailored for IT decision-makers in banking, FinTech entrepreneurs, financial regulators, technology service providers, and industry analysts. The event also offers sponsorship and exhibition opportunities for companies seeking to showcase innovative products and solutions, positioning themselves as leaders in the African FinTech landscape.

Join the Conversation:

Attendees can expect a dynamic day filled with informative sessions, engaging discussions, and valuable networking opportunities. By participating in Digital Finance Africa 2024, stakeholders will play a crucial role in shaping the future of finance in Africa.

For more information about the conference, registration, and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.digitalfinanceafrica.co.za.

Media Contact:

Nonhlanhla Kunene
Marketing Coordinator
events@itnewsafrica.com
+27 11 026 0982
@itnewsafrica
#DigitalFinanceAfrica

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 1000964416

IXOPAY Nomeia Brady Harris para CEO para Impulsionar o Crescimento dos Pagamentos Globais

Após a fusão da IXOPAY com a TokenEx, nova liderança fortalece a posição da empresa no mercado, atendendo às necessidades em evolução dos clientes

TULSA, Oklahoma, June 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A IXOPAY anunciou hoje a nomeação do veterano da indústria Brady Harris como seu novo CEO. Sua nomeação está alinhada com a recente fusão da IXOPAY com a TokenEx, destacando uma mudança significativa no setor de pagamentos para um modelo de pagamento com vários processadores, viabilizando que os comerciantes e empresas de fintech possam aprimorar e diversificar suas estratégias de pagamento. A empresa agradece ao CEO Marc Olesen por sua direção e contribuições.

Harris, classificado como um dos 3 principais CEOs nacionais da Glassdoor, tem mais de 20 anos de experiência e liderança executiva em FinTech, Pagamentos e SaaS. Como CEO da Dwolla, ele supervisionou o rápido crescimento dos volumes anuais de pagamentos de US $ 10 bilhões para US $ 70 bilhões, adicionando 1,5 milhão de novos usuários mensalmente. Antes da Dwolla, como presidente da Payscape, ele foi fundamental na sua fusão com a Payroc, na criação de um provedor global de serviços completos de pagamento com mais de 1.000 funcionários em 13 escritórios em todo o mundo. A nova empresa opera em 46 países, atendendo 150.000 empresas.

Sua experiência em fusões, aquisições e escalonamento de empresas para saídas bem-sucedidas sob patrocinadores de private equity é fundamental, pois a IXOPAY está posicionada para se tornar a solução completa do setor de pagamentos. A fusão criou uma plataforma com capacidade para oferecer tokenização de omnicanal, orquestração de pagamentos e gerenciamento de ciclo de vida dos cartões. A fusão aborda a necessidade de redundância, expansão geográfica e recursos de negociação de taxas que os sistemas de processador único não oferecem.

“A tecnologia de pagamentos está avançando rapidamente e a IXOPAY está pronta para liderar essa evolução”, disse Harris. “A integração de tokenização e orquestração nos permite oferecer uma plataforma que, além de dar suporte ao processamento de vários pagamentos, também incentiva o desenvolvimento de serviços inovadores.”

“Sob a liderança de Brady, a IXOPAY está pronta para estabelecer novos benchmarks no setor de pagamentos”, disse Vik Verma, Presidente do Conselho de Administração. “Nossa estratégia audaciosa enfatiza a escalabilidade, a segurança e os avanços inovadores que redefinirão o que os pagamentos podem alcançar.”

Harris e a equipe da IXOPAY estão participando da Money 20/20 Europe em Amsterdã esta semana. Eles apresentarão as ofertas expandidas após a fusão, incluindo os avanços na orquestração de pagamentos, tokenização, gerenciamento de riscos e gerenciamento do ciclo de vida do cartão. Junte-se a eles no RAI Amsterdam no estande 8a202 para ver como esses desenvolvimentos moldarão o futuro dos pagamentos dos comerciantes.

Para mais informações, contate:
Nicholas Mueller
SVP, Marketing
n.mueller@ixopay.com

Sobre a IXOPAY
A IXOPAY, uma empresa TokenEx, é uma plataforma líder em orquestração de pagamentos que fornece uma solução de pagamento flexível e independente para o gerenciamento de todos os serviços de pagamento em um só lugar. Após sua recente fusão com a TokenEX, a IXOPAY está posicionada para expandir seus serviços globalmente, oferecendo recursos aprimorados no processamento de pagamentos e medidas avançadas de segurança.

Foto deste comunicado disponível em https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2750a812-2a7a-420b-82b4-614b2f1eeb5c

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9147996

IXOPAY nomme Brady Harris au poste de PDG en vue de stimuler le développement de ses solutions de paiement à l’échelle mondiale

À la suite de la fusion entre IXOPAY et TokenEx, la nouvelle direction renforce la position de l’entreprise sur le marché pour répondre aux besoins en perpétuelle évolution de ses clients

TULSA, État d’Oklahoma, 03 juin 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IXOPAY annonce accueillir ce jour l’éminent et très expérimenté Brady Harris au poste de PDG. Cette nomination coïncide avec la récente fusion entre IXOPAY et TokenEx, et marque une nette transition dans le secteur des paiements. Cette évolution repose sur une approche multi-processeurs permettant aux commerçants et aux acteurs de la fintech de relever et diversifier leurs stratégies de paiement. L’entreprise adresse ses remerciements au PDG sortant, Marc Olesen, pour sa direction et toutes ses contributions.

Selon Glassdoor, Monsieur Harris se distingue parmi les trois meilleurs PDG des États-Unis. Il apporte plus de 20 ans d’expérience et de leadership de direction dans les domaines de la fintech, des paiements et des solutions SaaS. Alors PDG de Dwolla, il a piloté l’essor des volumes de paiements annuels, les faisant passer de 10 milliards à 70 milliards de dollars, tout en enregistrant 1,5 million de nouveaux utilisateurs chaque mois. Avant de rejoindre Dwolla, il a présidé Payscape, et son rôle s’est avéré déterminant dans sa fusion avec Payroc, qui a donné naissance à un fournisseur de services de paiement d’envergure mondiale employant plus de 1 000 collaborateurs au sein de 13 bureaux répartis travers le monde. En unissant leurs forces, ces deux entreprises ont mis au monde une structure opérationnelle au service de 150 000 sociétés dans 46 pays.

À l’heure où IXOPAY cherche ses marques pour se positionner en tant que fournisseur d’une solution tout-en-un sur le marché des solutions de paiement, l’expertise de Brady Harris en matière de fusions et acquisitions et de développement d’entreprises jusqu’à les faire sortir avec succès de la tutelle de leurs sponsors en capital-investissement s’avère fondamentale. La fusion entre IXOPAY et TokenEx a donné le jour à une plateforme capable de proposer à la fois une tokenisation omnicanale et une synchronisation des paiements, mais aussi une gestion du cycle de vie des cartes. Cette fusion répond aux exigences de prolixité, d’expansion géographique et de capacités de négociation des frais, inexistantes du côté des systèmes à processeur unique.

Pour Monsieur Harris, « La technologie applicable aux paiements évolue rapidement, et IXOPAY entend servir de locomotive dans ce parcours. L’intégration de la tokenisation et de la synchronisation nous permet de proposer une plateforme qui, au-delà de prendre en charge le traitement multi-paiements, favorise également le développement de nouveaux services. »

« Sous la direction de Brady, IXOPAY est à même d’établir de nouveaux standards applicables au secteur des paiements », remarque Vik Verma, président du conseil d’administration. Et d’ajouter : « Notre ambitieuse stratégie se focalise sur la mise à l’échelle, la sécurité et les avancées révolutionnaires qui redessineront les contours de ce que les paiements peuvent atteindre. »

Monsieur Harris et l’équipe d’IXOPAY participent à l’événement Money 20/20 organisé cette semaine à Amsterdam. Ensemble, ils auront l’occasion de présenter les offres complémentaires issues de la fusion, notamment les avancées en matière de synchronisation des paiements, de tokenisation, de gestion des risques et de gestion du cycle de vie des cartes. Nous vous invitons à les rejoindre au stand 8a202 du complexe RAI d’Amsterdam pour découvrir comment les développements évoqués dans le présent communiqué façonneront l’avenir des paiements pour les commerçants.

Pour tout complément d’information, veuillez contacter :
Nicholas Mueller
Vice-président directeur du Marketing
n.mueller@ixopay.com

À propos d’IXOPAY
IXOPAY, une société du groupe TokenEx, est l’opérateur d’une plateforme indépendante et flexible dédiée à la synchronisation des paiements, assurant la gestion de tous les services de paiement sous un seul toit. À la suite de sa récente fusion avec TokenEx, IXOPAY est en mesure de développer ses services à l’échelle mondiale en proposant des capacités améliorées en matière de traitement des paiements, mais aussi des protocoles de sécurité avancés.

Une photo accompagnant le présent communiqué est disponible à l’adresse suivante : https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2750a812-2a7a-420b-82b4-614b2f1eeb5c

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9147996

Afreximbank begins development of export quality assurance centre in Imo


The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has begun the development of its African Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC) in Imo to ensure quality of export products.

Prof. Benedict Oramah, President of the bank’s board of directors, said this at the official launch of the AQAC, in the Ngor Okpala council area of Imo, on Monday.

Oramah, represented by the bank’s Executive Vice-President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, Mrs Kanayo Awani, said that the centre was the second of its kind in Nigeria.

The president explained that the AQAC would promote African trade in line with the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.

According to him, although Africa’s export products represent only 30 per cent of exports in Europe and America, the products can hardly meet global standards, and have, therefore, suffered inhibited access to the global market.

‘With a cargo airport and abundant export products such as agricultural, textile, pharmaceutical and automotive, among others, Imo has the potential to beco
me a major international export hub in Nigeria,’ he said.

He thanked the bank’s technical partners, the Bureau Veritas; the African Organisation for Standardisation, and the Imo government for their support and collaboration which saw the project to fruition.

‘Africa loses an estimated $700m yearly at the export market due to inability to meet global standards, but the Afreximbank is working on accredited facilities for quality assurance and promotion of export trade.

‘This gathering is a testament that our strong political will backed by capital from Africa, represent a powerful force and our best chance as a people to achieve economic emancipation.

‘We are, therefore, pleased at the Afreximbank to announce the commencement of the AQAC project development in Imo to serve the people of Imo, Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea,’ he said.

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) begins the development of African Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC) in Imo

Also, Gov. Hope Uzodinma of Imo, thanked the bank for choosi
ng Imo as a ground for ‘providing home grown solutions to the challenges of export business confronting the African continent ‘.

He added that the project aligned with the Nigerian National Development Plan, and pledged his commitment to job creation through stimulation of the economy for a more productive life for Imo people.

‘We thank you for including Imo in the global map.

‘We assure you that with 64 nautical miles to the high sea, your decision to site this project in Imo will be justified through a viable Return on Investment (ROI), and our necessary support for your seamless operation’, he said.

Earlier, the bank’s Director of Export Development, Mrs Dorothy Oluwaji, restated the bank’s commitment to the strategic initiative, and thanked Uzodinma for his tenacity, drive, support and vision to make Imo an international export hub.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highlight of the event was the official unveiling of the project module.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Afreximbank begins development of export quality assurance centre in Imo


The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has begun the development of its African Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC) in Imo to ensure quality of export products.

Prof. Benedict Oramah, President of the bank’s board of directors, said this at the official launch of the AQAC, in the Ngor Okpala council area of Imo, on Monday.

Oramah, represented by the bank’s Executive Vice-President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, Mrs Kanayo Awani, said that the centre was the second of its kind in Nigeria.

The president explained that the AQAC would promote African trade in line with the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.

According to him, although Africa’s export products represent only 30 per cent of exports in Europe and America, the products can hardly meet global standards, and have, therefore, suffered inhibited access to the global market.

‘With a cargo airport and abundant export products such as agricultural, textile, pharmaceutical and automotive, among others, Imo has the potential to beco
me a major international export hub in Nigeria,’ he said.

He thanked the bank’s technical partners, the Bureau Veritas; the African Organisation for Standardisation, and the Imo government for their support and collaboration which saw the project to fruition.

‘Africa loses an estimated $700m yearly at the export market due to inability to meet global standards, but the Afreximbank is working on accredited facilities for quality assurance and promotion of export trade.

‘This gathering is a testament that our strong political will backed by capital from Africa, represent a powerful force and our best chance as a people to achieve economic emancipation.

‘We are, therefore, pleased at the Afreximbank to announce the commencement of the AQAC project development in Imo to serve the people of Imo, Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea,’ he said.

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) begins the development of African Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC) in Imo

Also, Gov. Hope Uzodinma of Imo, thanked the bank for choosi
ng Imo as a ground for ‘providing home grown solutions to the challenges of export business confronting the African continent ‘.

He added that the project aligned with the Nigerian National Development Plan, and pledged his commitment to job creation through stimulation of the economy for a more productive life for Imo people.

‘We thank you for including Imo in the global map.

‘We assure you that with 64 nautical miles to the high sea, your decision to site this project in Imo will be justified through a viable Return on Investment (ROI), and our necessary support for your seamless operation’, he said.

Earlier, the bank’s Director of Export Development, Mrs Dorothy Oluwaji, restated the bank’s commitment to the strategic initiative, and thanked Uzodinma for his tenacity, drive, support and vision to make Imo an international export hub.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highlight of the event was the official unveiling of the project module.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Gaming for Good: How Video Games Are Making a Positive Impact on Society


In a world where entertainment options are vast and varied, video games have carved out a significant niche, captivating millions across the globe. While traditional gambling activities like blackjack betting continue to draw interest, the rise of video games has not only transformed how we play but also how we impact society.

Once dismissed as mere pastimes or, worse, distractions, video games have evolved into powerful tools for positive change, influencing various aspects of society in unexpected and beneficial ways.

The Educational Power of Video Games

One of the most profound impacts of video games is in the realm of education. Educational video games have become a staple in classrooms and homes, offering interactive and engaging ways for children to learn complex subjects.

Games like ‘Minecraft: Education Edition’ and ‘Civilization VI’ teach critical thinking, problem-solving, and historical knowledge in a manner that textbooks often fail to achieve. The interactive nature of video games fosters a h
ands-on learning environment, allowing students to experiment and explore concepts in a safe and controlled setting.

Moreover, video games have proven effective in teaching STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills. Titles such as ‘Kerbal Space Program’ and ‘CodeCombat’ offer players the chance to delve into the intricacies of physics, coding, and engineering. By presenting these subjects in an engaging format, video games help to demystify complex topics and inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

Video Games as Therapeutic Tools

Beyond education, video games have found a significant role in therapy and mental health. The therapeutic potential of video games is increasingly recognized by psychologists and medical professionals.

Games like ‘SuperBetter,’ designed by game designer Jane McGonigal, use game mechanics to help players cope with stress, anxiety, and depression. The game encourages users to complete small tasks and challenges, promoting resilie
nce and a sense of accomplishment.

Furthermore, virtual reality (VR) games are being used to treat phobias, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), and other mental health conditions. VR therapy allows patients to confront their fears in a controlled environment, gradually reducing their anxiety through repeated exposure.

This innovative use of gaming technology is opening new avenues for treatment and providing relief for many individuals who struggle with mental health issues.

Social Impact and Community Building

Video games have also become powerful tools for social change and community building. Online multiplayer games like ‘Fortnite,’ ‘World of Warcraft,’ and ‘Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ create virtual communities where players from around the world can connect, collaborate, and build friendships. These games foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie, bridging cultural and geographical divides.

Additionally, video games have been used to raise awareness and funds for various causes. Charity gam
ing events, such as Extra Life and Games Done Quick, have raised millions of dollars for hospitals, disaster relief, and other charitable organizations.

Streamers and gaming influencers often leverage their platforms to promote social causes and mobilize their audiences for good. The gaming community’s collective effort has demonstrated the significant impact that video games can have in supporting and advancing social causes.

Promoting Physical Health

Contrary to the stereotype of gamers being sedentary, the advent of motion-controlled games and fitness-oriented titles has encouraged physical activity. Games like ‘Ring Fit Adventure,’ ‘Just Dance,’ and ‘Beat Saber’ combine gaming with exercise, making physical fitness fun and accessible.

These games offer a range of workouts, from cardio to strength training, and are particularly appealing to those who may find traditional exercise routines monotonous or intimidating.

The integration of gaming and physical health has also led to innovative solutions for
rehabilitation. Physical therapists are increasingly using video games to help patients recover from injuries or surgeries.

These games provide an engaging way for patients to perform repetitive exercises, tracking progress and adjusting difficulty levels to match their recovery stages. This gamified approach to rehabilitation enhances patient motivation and compliance, leading to better outcomes.

Economic Contributions

The video game industry itself has become a major economic force, contributing significantly to job creation and economic growth. Game development studios, eSports tournaments, and gaming-related merchandise generate billions of dollars annually. The industry supports a wide range of careers, from game designers and programmers to marketers and event organizers.

Moreover, eSports has emerged as a lucrative career path for professional gamers. These players compete in international tournaments, earning substantial prize money and sponsorship deals. The popularity of eSports has also led to
the creation of new infrastructure, including dedicated eSports arenas and training facilities, further boosting local economies.

While activities like Blackjack Betting have long been associated with entertainment and risk, video games have transcended traditional notions of play to become powerful agents of positive change. From education and therapy to community building and economic contributions, video games are making a tangible impact on society.

As technology continues to evolve, the potential for video games to drive social good will only expand, offering exciting possibilities for the future. Whether through enhancing learning experiences, promoting mental and physical health, or fostering global communities, video games are proving that they are much more than just a source of entertainment-they are a force for good.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria