News


Technology and automation to elevate Africa’s economic growth

June 2023 News

Technology is always evolving to improve modern life. The latest in artificial intelligence (AI), technology-based tactics, automation and cybersecurity are essential to master, particularly for those working in these sectors, and there is always something new to discover.

Just last month, South Africa introduced the first formally recognised Robotic Process Automation qualification in the EMEA region, opening new opportunities in education. Technology shapes so many facets of life and is likely to create an unimaginable and exciting future. What is crucial now however, is to use advancements to solve problems wherever possible.

For example, South Africa recently joining the Financial Action Task Force Grey List for its shortfalls in anti-money laundering (AML) prevention, could benefit from technology-based solutions as a practical way to reduce AML risks quickly.

Leaning on technology and automation eases doing business, enhances efficiency, and inspires new possibilities. The Africa Automation Technology Fair (AATF) brings together experts and professionals working in technology with exhibitors from the automation and technology industries to merge ideas and reimagine the future.

This year’s conference held at the AATF − AATF Connect − will showcase world-class content from industry experts and speakers.

“Assessing the top technology and automation trends and innovation, and how these apply to solving local issues such as our water and energy crises, will be among discussions and we will also be hosting CPD-accredited workshops in collaboration with eNtsa and the SAIMC, which will be informative, particularly for attendees who want to register to earn CPD points,” says Carol Weaving, managing director at RX Africa, the event organiser behind this year’s 12th AATF.

The event is co-located with the inaugural Infosecurity Africa, held at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Gauteng from 9-11 May 2023. Infosecurity Africa will showcase the latest in trends, threats, and cybercrime prevention, covering everything businesses need to know about information security, alongside the latest in automation and technology at the AATF.

“We have a stellar line-up of presenters at AATF Connect, including energy expert Chris Yelland, MD of Business Solutions, Dhevan Pillay, group CEO of LTM Energy and Dr Dilley Naidoo, director at RSPH,” Weaving adds.

The energy crisis in South Africa requires an innovative solution and remains among the country’s top priorities, where individual provinces are budgeting for alternative power and securing contracts with independent power producers. AATF Connect aims to consider what comes next to improve the energy sector.

The first day features discussions on the future of energy, while in the afternoon, solving the water crisis will be the focus.

Africa requires $50 billion annually ($40 or just under R714 per individual African per year) to guarantee water supply and achieve sustainable sanitation by 2030. The future of water is firmly on the AATF Connect agenda, highlighting the collective effort required to manage shortage risks. The dams in the Western Cape, for example, are 59% full, and unpredictable weather in the coming winter makes maintaining sufficient supply a concern, let alone considering the water supply issues facing other provinces around South Africa.

Benoit Le Roy, CEO of the South African Water Chamber NPC, and Dr Anthony Turton, professor at the Centre for Environmental Management at the University of the Free State, are among AATF Connect speakers on the preservation of water.

On day two of AATF Connect, automation takes centre stage where Johan Steyn, managing executive of AI for Business, and Brendan van Staaden, managing executive of MoData Interactive, are among the speakers. Topics on the agenda include sustainable automation and the rise of collaborative robots.

“We look forward to inspiring visitors, who can expect a great new venue, with access to fresh ideas, top notch networking and the chance to connect with the latest and greatest in all things AI, technology and info-security,” Weaving concludes.




Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
News
In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.

Read more...
Zutari coordinates MeerKAT radio telescope array
News
Leading consulting engineering and infrastructure advisory practice, Zutari is continuing its involvement with the world-leading MeerKAT radio telescope array, where it has played a leading role since the project first broke ground.

Read more...
Appointments
Schneider Electric South Africa News
  

Read more...
Bring SA’s minibus taxis into the digital age
News
The Wealth On Wheels initiative was launched at the recent Southern African National Transport Conference in Pretoria. This initiative seeks to use innovative technologies such as digital cash payments and blockchain to help minibus owners enhance operations and maximise their revenue, while creating a safer and more secure environment for the travelling public.

Read more...
Med-TechEngineers launches academy to address critical skills shortage
News
Gauteng-based consulting engineering firm, Med-TechEngineers has officially launched the Engineering and Technology Academy to address the shortage of critical and unique skills needed in the engineering and technology sectors.

Read more...
5-in-1 trade show brings together industries, buyers and sellers
News
This year’s Electra Mining Africa exhibition is set to be one of the biggest to date, with over 850 companies exhibiting across six halls and four sizable outside exhibit areas. With thousands of new products and technologies on show, and hundreds of live demonstrations showcasing machinery and equipment in action, visitors will get to see the latest industry innovations.

Read more...
AVEVA unveils Sustainability Progress Report
News
AVEVA has launched its 2023 Sustainability Progress Report at London Tech Week 2024, where the company advocates for an ethical and impact-driven AI, aimed at increasing creativity and efficiency for a more sustainable world.

Read more...
Zutari inspires the youth ahead of World Youth Skills Day
News
Equipping the youth with the necessary skills and knowledge for successful careers is an important focus of leading infrastructure engineering and advisory practice Zutari, which believes in building a sustainable future for future generations.

Read more...
Parker’s control systems in the 2024 America’s Cup
Parker Hannifin - Sales Company South Africa News
Parker Hannifin will design and implement advanced control systems for New York Yacht Club’s American Magic racing yachts, and support the challenger’s pursuit of the 37th America’s Cup.

Read more...
Appointments
News
  

Read more...