Topic: Business

Africa – the last untapped market

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The World Bank recently raised its economic outlook for sub-Saharan Africa for the next 12 months, predicting that the region will grow by more than 5% as a result of strong domestic demand and higher production of commodities. This ties in with the International Monetary Fund’s prediction that growth rates for emerging economies will be higher than in advanced economies – another sign that the time is ripe for investment in the continent. This comes as no surprise to emerging markets expert, Professor John Luiz from the UCT Graduate School of Business (GSB). “It is clear that Africa is the... Continue Reading

Liberty Medical Scheme announces exciting benefit enhancements for 2014, while keeping cost increases low

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On the back of steady member growth, tight control of costs and strong relationships with healthcare provider networks, Liberty Medical Scheme (LMS) has contained member contribution increases to 9,5% (weighted average) across all options for 2014. This increase is against the backdrop of product enhancements, benefit increases and inflationary limit increases for members on different options. “We aim to provide the best possible healthcare benefits for our members, while offering them wellbeing benefits and a wide choice of options to suit their pocket,” says Liberty Medical Scheme Executive Principal Officer, Andrew Edwards. “We are on track to deliver on our... Continue Reading

Zambia: NACL embarks on project to expand HMNIA airport

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By Nawa Mutumweno – Aviation has proved to be a significant business and foreign exchange earner for many countries. Zambia is no exception. Any investment into this sector will definitely yield a healthy return for the country. Airports play an integral role in the development of the tourism industry, underscoring the importance of refurbishing the aviation facilities to ensure quality service to the discerning traveller and tourists, be they foreign or local. Zambia’s National Airports Corporation Limited (NACL) has embarked on an expansion and upgrade programme of the country’s four international airports to enhance competitiveness in the region and the... Continue Reading

Mopani Copper Mines – Contributing to Zambia’s economic progress

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By Nawa Mutumweno – Mopani Copper Mines Plc (MCM) has invested over K10 billion ($5 billion) in its mining operations in Kitwe and Mufulira on the Zambian Copperbelt. According to the mining conglomerate’s public relations manager Cephas Sinyangwe, among the highly-significant projects undertaken are the $323 million Synclinorium Shaft and the Smelter upgrade project. The  Synclinorium Shaft will extend Nkana mine’s lifespan by another 25 – 30 years from the current expected depletion dates of the existing reserves at Mindolo North, South Ore Body (SOB) and Central Shafts of 2015, 2017 and 2018 , respectively. ‘’This will lead to securing... Continue Reading

Bowman Gilfillan, Cliffe Dekker and Webber Wentzel among talent shortlisted for inaugural African Legal Awards

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Bowman Gilfillan, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr and Webber Wentzel are among the leading firms to be shortlisted for the first-ever African Legal Awards. The trio will compete for the accolade of African Law Firm of the Year, with the winner to be announced at a glittering awards ceremony taking place in Johannesburg on Thursday 24 October 2013. Jointly hosted by leading UK publisher Legal Week and the Corporate Lawyers Association of South Africa (CLASA), the awards will for the first time unite the African legal and business community to celebrate excellence and innovation across Africa’s legal profession at a glittering ceremony at... Continue Reading