Pretoria, 10 March 2017: Leading animal health industry company, Bupo Animal Health today announced that it has made a donation to a long serving landscaping services supplier, Reckson Makaringi of T-Rex Gardening Services . The donation, a set of brand new Ryobi landscaping equipment i.e a Trimtec lawnmower, Petrol chain saw, line trimmer and a bush cutter was made in lieu of Bupo Animal Health’s commitment to invest in the community.

The donation is instrumental in developing T-Rex Gardening Service’s service offering and skill set, all the while taking care of the environment that we all are a part of. From the Ceo’s office, Ms. Antonieta Bupo added, “Our organization depends on our community, and without the help of local vendors like T-Rex Gardening Services, we would not be able to provide our services and products in a clean and safe environment and thus it is only right that we support them back.”

Since 2014, Mr. Makaringi has been instrumental in the preparation and maintenance of our garden areas. These and the general spaces around our factory have to be kept highly sanitary at all conditions and this is no small feat.We have spearheaded other initiatives in the past, supporting schools as Mamelodi High School in 2015, 2016 and 2017, Silverton Primary School in 2016 as well as Meyerspark Primary School in 2017. The group CEO, Mr. Oscar Bupo believes that education is fundamental and should be supported at all costs. We are invested in the development of our community and employees and will continue to do so.

To learn more about Bupo Animal Health, its corporate philanthropy initiatives, please visit www.bupoanimalhealth.com

About Bupo Animal Health: Headquartered in Pretoria, Bupo Animal Health is an international South African company that manufactures, imports and distributes veterinary and pharmaceutical products as well as feed additives since 1988. Focusing on service, value chain and efficacy of our products, we aspire to be your preferred partner in Animal Health in Africa. Our products are synonymous of quality, efficacy and with a great element of innovation in each of them. We believe in the wisdom of mother nature, in a clean and friendly environment and offer a team of distinguished professionals, aligned with the ethos of nature’s principles of protection of our habitat. Proof of this is that we own 2.000 hectares of pristine land in Uruguay of natural and plantation forests managed in a sustainable, eco-friendly and conservationist way. We are very proud of this project.Bupo Animal Health has also invested in efficiencies at our factory in South Africa, particularly in the processing of liquids, powders and feed additives.

We have our own branches in South Africa, Mozambique, Kenya, Egypt, Morocco and Nigeria and also work closely with a Distribution Network of in the entire African Continent.

Contact

Lloyd Chikamba
Bedson Group, Marketing officer
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+27128034376

The tourism industry in South Africa has taken a lot of hits, especially since the Apartheid era arrived. Through all of this, tourism in South Africa has grown and it's up to us to keep feeding South Africa's biggest asset, it's natural beauty, culture and people. Viva South Africa, Viva Tourism! Lets start at the beginning, Apartheid. It was the first real issue South Africa was facing in regards to tourism going down the drain.

Many countries were boycotting South Africa, affecting thousands of local businesses and putting a huge red sticker on our country that basically said: "Do not enter!". We survived, we made it to 1994, a glorious year for all South Africans.

Tourism gained some traction, but not long after 1994, the country was yet again avoided due to high crime rates and general violence taking place all over South Africa. Flights were also extremely expensive to any South African airport due to airlines cutting down on daily flights to South Africa. Our country received a rough estimate of less than 1 million arrivals at international airports. It was a devastating time for tourism in South Africa.

The year 2000, we made it. The world didn't end and tourism started picking up again with President Thabo Mbeki leading the country to a better tomorrow. Things were looking good and our tourist arrivals and revenue looked good, but it was nothing compared to other smaller countries that were on our level. We had a lot of catching up to do, South Africa should've been a major tourist attraction by now, but we took a big hit and recovery is extremely difficult after such a tremendous blow.

Enter 2010, the year we have all been waiting for, the Soccer World Cup. South Africa was blooming. We woke up to an incredibly beautiful morning and the sun was bright. People rejoiced and our revenue predictions were going off the charts. The year ended with a sense of relief and we seemed to be back on track to being the Mecca of tourist attractions. Today, at the end of 2016, looking forward to 2017. We have started a new project. Flight Factory. With one goal. Sell South Africa. Sell its natural beauty, sell its infinite cultural richness, sell its magnificent people.

We are here to "Make South Africa Great Again", one flight at a time. We believe in unity and South Africa is our unity. If we can all help our country reach it's full potential, we can create the brightest future for the next generation of South Africans. At the end of the day, South Africa, itself, will be the longest lasting "business" of our country. Let's sell it together!

- Milan-based artistic duo “Carnovsky” uses its “RGB” signature to bring multiple visions of Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège -  

Johannesburg, Friday, 03 March 2017 – In the brand’s first foray into the world of virtual animation with its limited editions, Hennessy celebrates its latest V.S.O.P Privilège Limited Edition series experimenting a crossover between art and design with a new design crafted by “Carnovsky”. Comprising couple in art and life of Italian-born Francesco Rugi and Colombian-born Silvia Quintanilla, a team since they founded their Milan studio ten years ago in 2006, “Carnovsky” have created a storm in the world of art by creating a process that blends both 17th century illustrations with what they’ve named the ‘RGB Project’.  

“Within Hennessy’s traditions is an unwavering quest for continuous support for the arts. As cognac creators, we believe in a designer’s creative process. As a result Hennessy’s interest in art is longstanding and genuine. With this V.S.O.P Privilège Limited Edition, we wanted to make sure we retain its unique identity with an exceptional portrait. “Carnovsky” couldn’t have better represented our ambition,” said Michael Ellingworth, Hennessy Cognac Marketing Manager for South Africa.  

To illustrate the fundamental elements of cognac making – sun, earth, grapes, and water – as well as symbols representing Hennessy’s mastery such as its coat of arms or the compass, “Carnovsky” selected these patterns and images that strike deep into the heart of this historic house.  

In continuing a legacy of artistic collaboration that spans centuries, Hennessy’s latest collaboration with Milan-based artistic duo “Carnovsky” celebrates Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège legacy through the unique use of a digital technique so named for the virtual world’s primary colours – red, green, and blue. The colour red symbolises the energies and forces involved in creating VSOP Privilege; green is about the origin of the cognac – nature and the fruit; and blue is the dreamscape of a sensory journey and the experience of tasting VSOP Privilege. The duo went on to create a virtual animation image that told the story of Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilege cognac in layers and rendered it in ‘RGB’ to illustrate the origin and spirit of Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilége. The result is multiple images that coexist harmoniously to the naked eye.    

The world’s first and favourite V.S.O.P Cognac blend, Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège has special notes of French oak, vanilla, cinnamon, clove, and candied fruits. A versatile cognac characterised by its well-loved aromas, fine balance of richness and smoothness, and long-lasting finish the Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège flavours are extremely calm on the palate and all the way through.  

The 750ml bottle retails at R649.95 and will be available at Makro stores in March and all the other major liquor outlets in April.  For more information about the Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège Limited Edition bottle by “Carnovsky”, visit www.hennessy.com.  Follow Hennessy on Facebook (HennessySouthAfrica) and Instagram (@HennessySA).  

For media enquiries and interviews, please contact:

Tia Mthethwa

Weber Shandwick SA

011 235 4639              

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About Hennessy
In 2015, the Maison Hennessy celebrated 250 years of an exceptional adventure that has linked two families for seven generations, the Hennessys and the Fillioux, and spanned five continents. It began in the French region of Cognac, the seat from which the Maison has constantly passed down the best the land has to give, from one generation to the next. Such longevity is thanks to those people, past and present, who have ensured Hennessy’s success both locally and around the world. Hennessy’s success and longevity are also the result of the values the Maison has upheld since its creation: unique savoir-faire, a constant quest for innovation, and an unwavering commitment to Creation, Excellence, Legacy, and Sustainable Development. Today, these qualities are the hallmark of the Maison – a crown jewel in the LVMH Group – that crafts one of the most iconic, prestigious Cognacs in the world. Hennessy is imported and distributed in South Africa by the Really Great brand Company. Hennessy distills, ages and blends spanning a full range: Hennessy V.S, Privilege V.S.O.P, X.O, Paradis, Paradis Imperial and Richard Hennessy.  

“Zambia is an exciting market to explore, not just for South African suppliers to the agriculture sector, but also for South African farmers” says Liam Beckett, commercial director for the upcoming Agritech Expo Zambia. The award-winning event is owned by the Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) and returns to Chisamba for the fourth time this year from 27-29 April.

He adds: “in certain sectors the South African market has become saturated and many South African companies are looking to branch out across the border, in order to continue their business growth in Africa. In Zambia, there are approximately 400 registered commercial farming professionals, which represents a very lucrative potential market. The Zambian farming sector is also far more advanced than other neighbouring countries and farming methods are also similar to South Africa. Therefore, South African brands and products, such as implements and agro chemicals, are all applicable in Zambia.”

More international pavilions
Last year Agritech Expo Zambia drew a record-breaking attendance of 17 605 visitors. This year even more small-scale, emerging and commercial farmers are expected to descend on the GART research farm in the heart of Zambia’s agri-hub Chisamba, where the latest farming products and services will be showcased. The three-day expo will furthermore feature an even greater international presence with international pavilions from Germany, Zimbabwe, Czech Republic, the Netherlands, the UK and France already confirmed.

Says Liam Beckett: “just judging from the big increase in international pavilions at Agritech Expo this year, the global interest in Zambia as an agri market is obvious. Already there is major international investment in the country at present as well as projects being planned and if a South African company wants to establish a footprint in Zambia, they need to make sure they grab this business development opportunity now before they miss out.”  

The South African companies that have so far booked to exhibit or sponsor at Agritech Expo Zambia include AGRICO, Gallagher Power Fence SA Pty Ltd, Hydraform, Kempston Agri – Claas, Lindsay Africa, Neptun Boot, Organico, Senter 360, Teejet and ROFF. Many other suppliers have headquarters in South Africa, but they are exhibiting as the Zambian branch.  

Liam adds: “for South African farmers, Zambia is of interest as there are many new technologies, agro chemicals and commercial farming methods that are available in Zambia that they can learn from. They can also explore renting land on a 99-year lease to expand on their existing South African operations.”  

Agritech Expo Zambia will also offer free workshops again, as well as live machinery and product demonstrations and crop trials. New for this year will be specialised agri-sector industry zones and mowing and baling demonstrations.  

Multi-award winning Agritech Expo
Agritech Expo Zambia recently won two coveted awards at the ROAR Organiser and Exhibitor Awards in Johannesburg which honour excellence in the exhibition and events industry on the continent. The awards were organised jointly by the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) and the Exhibition & Event Association of Southern Africa (EXSA). Agritech Expo won for Best Trade & Consumer Exhibition +12000 sqm and for Distinction in Social Responsibility.  

The expo also has an outreach programme at the local Golden Valley Basic School, where, with the assistance of numerous event sponsors, it is assisting the school with much needed infrastructure upgrades, equipment supplies and management of the school’s farm.

As in previous years, Agritech Expo enjoys extensive support from the agri industry with well-known suppliers AFGRI and John Deere returning as platinum sponsors again. Confirmed gold sponsors are Action Auto, Agricon, BHBW, Case Construction, Case Agriculture, Gourock and SARO.  

Agritech Expo Zambia is organised by Spintelligent, leading Cape Town-based trade exhibition and conference organiser, and the African office of Clarion Events Ltd, based in the UK. The event is owned by the Zambia National Farmers Union. Other well-known events by Spintelligent include Agritech Expo Tanzania and Agribusiness Congress East Africa.

Agritech Expo Zambia 2017:
Dates: 27-29 April 2017
Location: Gart Research Centre, Chisamba, Zambia
Website: http://www.agritech-expo.com
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Agritech_Expo
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/agritechexpozambia/  
LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/7477169  

Media contact:
Senior communications manager: Annemarie Roodbol
Mobile: +27 82 562 7844
Office: +27 21 700 3500
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New Name, Same Trusted Capabilities: Emerson Network Power Rebrands as Vertiv in South Africa  

New era begins focused on speed, technology innovation and growth, with added flexibility to serve expanding markets for cloud computing and mobile networking  

Johannesburg, South Africa (March 3, 2017) – Vertiv, the business formerly known as Emerson Network Power, has officially launched under its new branding in South Africa. 

Vertiv is a global provider of mission-critical infrastructure technologies for vital applications in data centers, communication networks, and commercial and industrial environments. The company, which is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio (USA), has more than 20,000 employees and 28 manufacturing and assembly facilities worldwide. Vertiv will continue to build on the broad portfolio of product and service offerings for power, thermal and IT management capabilities it previously offered as Emerson Network Power, including its industry-leading flagship brands ASCO®, Chloride®, Liebert®, NetSure™ and Trellis™. Backed by over 255 service centers worldwide, with over 3,000 service field engineers and more than 400 technical support/response people, Vertiv is able to support customers wherever they are across the globe.  

Giordano Albertazzi, president of Vertiv in Europe, Middle East and Africa, said “As a new, standalone company, Vertiv has the opportunity to develop the business quicker and to make strategic decisions which are focused purely on the industry we operate in. The Middle East & Africa region will continue to be a key market for us as it matures towards advanced deployments.”   “We have been in South Africa for many years and as Vertiv we will continue to support the country’s evolving needs in IT and digital infrastructure” added Pierre Havenga, managing director of Vertiv in Middle East and Africa.

“We thrive towards ensuring our technologies fulfill our local customer requirements to optimize their operations with the highest levels of availability and reliability in all market segments, from the public sector to healthcare to finance. At the same time, we are looking at reinforcing our partnerships and growing the local network of technology distributors and resellers.” “South Africa is a key country for Vertiv as it serves as the hub through which products, pre-sales and after sales services flow for the entire sub-Sahara Africa region, and through which all South and East Africa transactions are processed, including the South African Development Community (SADC) for a total of 25 countries” continues Pierre. 

In support of its rebranding as Vertiv, the company has recently unveiled its new website at www.VertivCo.com and has launched an advertising campaign to introduce its new brand with the theme “Your Mission is Critical.” The campaign will run in major global business and technology industry print and online media, such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Fast Company, Wired, TechCrunch and IDG Tech Network.   # # #  

About Vertiv Vertiv designs, builds and services critical infrastructure that enables vital applications for data centers, communication networks and commercial and industrial facilities. Formerly Emerson Network Power, Vertiv supports today’s growing mobile and cloud computing markets with a portfolio of power, thermal and infrastructure management solutions including the ASCO®, Chloride®, Liebert®, NetSure™ and Trellis™ brands. Sales in fiscal 2016 were $4.4 billion. For more information, visit VertivCo.com.     

South Africa Media Contact

Tia Mthethwa

Weber Shandwick

011 235 4639

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Introduction

Lorge Consulting Services – has been frequently making headlines following a streak of noteworthy philanthropic endeavours and client success stories. The company has also featured at various single and multi-industry events, on national and international platforms. This time, however, the Premier Certified Sage Partner is sending shockwaves throughout the Southern African business landscape by expanding its product line. This is courtesy of a new addition to the existing suite of cutting-edge BMS solutions: Sage Evolution (SE).  

Following much preparation and planning, the company is proud to announce the official addition of Sage Evolution to the existing family of Sage products offered to the market. This is in-keeping with the company vision to be thee leading provider of innovative, business and industry-specific BMS and BI software. The company’s comprehensive range of sought-after solutions under one umbrella, together with proven industry expertise for more than 30 years, and an unstinting commitment to service excellence - all attest to Lorge’s reputation as a pioneering and forward-facing organisation.    

Sage Evolution – “Next Level” Business Management Resource    

The launch of Sage Evolution in South Africa represented a direct response to the unique and ever-evolving needs of businesses operating in dynamic markets, with intensifying competitive forces and rapidly growing consumer needs. This called for a progressive software solution with sophisticated tools and capabilities as well as the ability to enhance user-experience.       

The latter is a key factor addressed by SE as the software is intelligently designed for exceptional ease-of-use. Additionally, there are a host of important reasons why Sage Evolution is the software of choice for leading industries within South Africa, the continent as a whole and for that matter – globally.  

Consider these 5 compelling reasons why your business development, customer-service and administrative systems can widely benefit from this particular Sage product in 2017 and beyond.    

These features and benefits although considerable, only begin to scratch the surface of SE. For more comprehensive insight contact our experts here.    

1. The features of SE provide for a holistic and fully integrated software solution:  

An effective BMS cannot stand alone as an isolated system that isn’t compatible with others and refuses to factor in the influences of all operational elements. This is where SE’s advantages kick in, as an all-encompassing product that instinctively connects with other applications.  

This means that SE is not only a robust financial management system, but one than can seamlessly network and align to existing third-party programs - wherever required. There is a science to it and a deeply technical side, but this is where the expertise of trained technicians and the comfort of reliable service support come in. SE can therefore work harmoniously with an existing CRM tool, for instance – and the same would apply to any current system that has to be considered. This enables efficient installations as well as tailored products suited to individual business needs.  

2. SE offers ease-of-use - despite its advanced capabilities:  

This is a massive consideration in that, while the software handles complex integration and manages a host of important business functions, the end-user experience is highly intuitive. For instance, the main system manager features an easily navigable System Tree. This welcoming interface caters to everything from system set-up, to control, to multi-level password security, online help and so forth. Such simplicity and functionality foster greater productivity, efficiency and security.  

3. SE allows for the implementation of dynamic Industry and business-specific solutions:     

Since every business differs as do its needs - a scalable and customisable solution is required for peak performance. SE enables one to create business-specific modules that complement the software’s core functions. So whether you need to incorporate a high traffic ecommerce platform into your business management system, or whether you need to collate and analyse data from multiple offices with hundreds of users – unique modules can be created or set-up to cater for these demands.  

4. Flexible Report generation and real-time updating:  

Successful businesses are largely incumbent on the meaningful assimilation and interpretation of various sets of data. This relates to every facet of the business, and in order to be achieved, requires relevant report generation for internal use or sharing with stakeholders. Instances include the need to monitor or report on sales trends, expenditure analyses, inventory movements, wage and salary schedules, debtors or creditors figures and much more.  

Standard reports can be customised by employing the Report Writer module and scheduled reports can be automated to generate and be emailed periodically to specific persons. Furthermore, vast data volumes can be securely pulled and analysed from multiple sources in excel with figures updating in real time. Simply refresh in order to update to most current data. Controlling accessibility and Alert Management for notifications are some of the other useful features.      

5. Superior Inventory Control and Optimisation:  

Inventory monitoring or tracking and management as a whole are fundamental in developing sustainable business success. The SE Inventory Optimisation feature is included as part of the core SE modules. It allows for stock levels to be set and synchronised with preferred suppliers linked to each item. In this way ordering processes can be automated.  

Factors such as lead times and reorder quantities can also be integrated within the system criteria. Even internal stock distribution or movements between divisions can be managed via the Inventory Issue feature. Then the main Inventory module empowers any business to exercise virtually unlimited control over stock. From summarised management reports to detailed operational reports - all can be customised to the requirements of each user.    

Find out more about the benefits and features of Sage Evolution by dialling 010 594 9800 today.    

Why Lorge is a trusted supplier of SE and other Sage solutions  

SE is a powerful tool with user friendly features. However, in order to ensure the most effective solutions, tailored to your specific business - the right technical expertise and after-sales support is vital in harnessing SE’s full capabilities. This will ensure you have the most appropriate solution for your enterprise, efficiently installed and backed by knowledgeable and dedicated service professionals. This translates to optimum system performance and prompt technical assistance when required.  

Here are only a few reasons why Lorge is your service provider of choice when it comes to Sage Evolution:  

• Lorge has earned a reputation of excellence, being trusted by over 10,000 users in the broadest spectrum of industries.
• Lorge has a Dedicated Sage Accredited In-house Training Centre.
• Lorge is an award-winning enterprise and therefore recognised as a leader by the industry.
• Lorge adopts a client-centred approach with all customers. This has allowed the organisation to expand its footprint nationally as well as internationally.
• The in-house knowledge and expertise of Lorge has been firmly entrenched over a number of years. This is evidenced by the comprehensive suite of Sage and related BMS products that    the organisation specialises in.  

Account Manager at Sage South Africa, David Jones, discussed a plethora of Sage Evolution features and benefits with our media representative – a few of which are discussed above. Additionally, David discussed that strict criteria is applied to suppliers wishing to become Certified Sage Partners, of which there are several tiers. Customers enlisting Lorge will have the comfort of knowing that the company is a Premier Certified Sage Partner.           

For further information on Sage Evolution, or to discuss your current enterprise needs, contact our Sales Department on 010 594 9800.

Media Contact
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Nominations are open for top industry professionals and projects  

“I know the energy revolution is powering up and ready to take off. We should embrace energy trade with each other”.  With these words Mr Kandeh Yumkella, UN Under-Secretary-General and Former Special Representative of the Secretary-General and CEO, Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All), accepted the Lifetime Achievement Award at last year’s African Utility Week Industry Awards.

The fourth edition of the annual African Utility Week Industry Awards will once again honour pioneering utilities, projects and people in the energy and water industry on the continent on Wednesday, 17 May, during African Utility Week and Energy Revolution Africa at the CTICC in Cape Town. Award categories vary from the Power and Water Utility of the Year Awards, Young Energy Leader Award and Outstanding Woman of the Year: Power/Water and include exciting new categories to reflect the latest developments and evolution of the energy and water sectors.  The new categories include:
•   Small-Scale Sustainable Energy Project (under 5MW)
•   Innovative Technology of the Year
•   Deal of the Year
•   ICT Excellence Award
•   Gas-to-Power Project of the Year

Benchmark of excellence
These prestigious industry awards will be presented during a gala dinner welcoming 800 of Africa’s most distinguished power and water industry professionals to recognise those that represent a benchmark of excellence for the industry. Entries for nominations for the awards close on 17 March and the public is invited to nominate themselves or colleagues and projects that have made outstanding contributions to the energy and water sectors.

Johannesburg’s City Power, George Airport and Akon Lighting Africa were also amongst the exciting and pioneering power and water professionals, utilities and projects that were winners at last year’s sold-out awards gala evening, while Uganda’s NWSC won the coveted Water Utility of the Year Award for the third  year in a row.

2017 Award Categories:
Individual Awards:  

Lifetime Achievement Award
The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to an individual for prolonged and consistent achievements who has made a significant contribution to the development and future of the energy/water industries during his or her career.   The nominee can be from a utility, public or private company and should be someone who has helped to achieve strategic advancement of the sectors by proactively sharing knowledge, encouraging the adoption of new technologies or establishing exemplary financial governance practices. This individual is well recognised across the globe for their influence and insight to the energy or water sectors in Africa.  

Outstanding Contribution Award: Power
This award celebrates the accomplishments of an individual in a senior position from a utility, public or private company who has displayed passion and commitment to the power industry, while also demonstrating leadership, vision and success.  

Outstanding Contribution Award: Water This award celebrates the accomplishments of an individual in a senior position from a utility, public or private company who has displayed passion and commitment to the water industry while also demonstrating leadership, vision and success.  

Outstanding Woman of the Year: Power/Water     
This award celebrates a woman in the power/water industries for outstanding achievements who has made a contribution to and impact on the sector, whether from a utility, public or private company.      

Young Energy Leader Award
This award recognises a person under the age of 35 from a public or private company who has made an outstanding contribution to the energy/water sectors. This young professional has had commendable career achievements to date and is already playing a leading role in their sector.  

Organisational / Project Awards:  

Power Utility of the Year
This award recognises a power utility in Africa that has excelled in any one or more of the following fields: Service delivery, project roll-out, technology roll-out, revenue protection measures, loss reduction, grid integration and new energy sources, including company contribution to sector growth, demonstrated expenditure reduction, increased capacity to deliver services and revenue collection, completion of infrastructure development or sustainable maintenance projects.  

Water Utility of the Year
This award recognises a water utility in Africa that excels in any one or more of the following: Service delivery, project roll-out, technology roll-out, revenue protection measures, loss reduction, water quality and sanitation solutions, including company contribution to sector growth, demonstrated expenditure reduction, increased capacity to deliver services and revenue collection, completion of infrastructure development or sustainable maintenance projects.  

Large Scale Renewable Energy Project (10MW +)
This award is for a project completed by an African utility, off-grid producer, IPP, government or investor.  

Small-Scale Sustainable Energy Project (under 5MW) – NEW CATEGORY

This award is for a connected sustainable energy project providing electricity for either a commercial or rural electrification setting.  

Innovative Technology of the Year – NEW CATEGORY This award will acknowledge a business that has achieved commercial success from energy-focused advanced technology, research or developing products, services, or solutions relevant to the energy sector.  

Deal of the Year – NEW CATEGORY
This category will recognise an outstanding energy deal which reached financial closure between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2016.  

ICT Excellence Award – NEW CATEGORY
The ICT Excellence Award provides a platform to recognise utilities from across Africa that have utilised ICT technology to improve the lives of all its customers as well as the citizens of the country. The award aims to promote successful deployment and application of innovative ICT solutions and services that have contributed improvements in service delivery and utility efficiency.  

Gas-to-Power Project of the Year – NEW CATEGORY
The gas-to-power project of the year award launches in 2017 to recognise those companies who are not only pioneers in the gas to power space but also those who, through innovation and creativity, have contributed to the commercial and industrial development of the country in which they operate and have had a positive societal impact.   For further information on the awards please visit http://www.african-utility-week.com/industryawards  

Leading water and energy platform
African Utility Week takes place from 16-18 May 2017 at the CTICC in Cape Town, gathering over 7000 decision makers in the power and water sectors from more than 40 countries to source the latest solutions and meet over 300 suppliers. The expo will feature free to attend technical workshops and technology demonstrations. The event has won the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) award for the Best Trade Exhibition 6001-12000 sqm category.

KPMG is diamond sponsor
Already leading global advisory firm KPMG has confirmed that it is returning to African Utility Week, this time as its exclusive diamond sponsorship. Other long-running supporters and industry stalwarts EPG, Landis+Gyr, Ontec and Shell are also back as platinum sponsors while Conlog, Oracle, SAP and Vodacom are gold sponsors again.

Part of the event is Energy Revolution Africa, a new platform for community scale projects, which will provide a unique forum for solution providers to meet with the new energy purchasers such as metros and municipalities, IPPs, rural electrification project developers and large power users, including mines, commercial property developers and industrial manufacturers.

African Utility Week and Energy Revolution Africa are organised by Spintelligent, a multi-award-winning exhibition and conference producer across the continent in the infrastructure, real estate, energy, mining, agriculture and education sectors. Other well-known events by Spintelligent include Agritech Expo Tanzania, CBM-TEC, Kenya Mining Forum, Future Energy East Africa (formerly EAPIC), Future Energy Nigeria (formerly WAPIC), Future Energy Central Africa (formerly iPAD Cameroon), iPAD Nigeria Mining Forum, DRC Mining Week and EduWeek. Spintelligent is part of the UK-based Clarion Events Group.

Dates for African Utility Week and Energy Revolution Africa:
Conference and expo: 16-18 May 2017
Awards gala dinner:  17 May 2016
Site visits: 19 May 2016
Location: CTICC, Cape Town, South Africa
Websites: http://www.african-utility-week.com    
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfricaUtilities   
Linkedin: African Power Forum

Contact:
Senior communications manager:  Annemarie Roodbol
Telephone:  +27 21 700 3558
Mobile:  +27 82 562 7844
Email:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

British Council links South African schools with UK counterparts in an effort towards knowledge sharing and international partnerships 

Seven South African schools have forged partnerships with UK schools as part of the UK-funded Connecting Classrooms project, a unique global education programme.

Connecting Classrooms is designed to broaden teaching practice, equipping teachers to prepare their learners with the skills they need for life and work in a global economy.

Colm McGivern, Director South Africa said: “Connecting Classrooms equips teachers and school leaders to broaden their teaching practice and ultimately improve learning outcomes for young people in the 21st century.

It’s a fantastic way for teachers to access free professional training and learn practical approaches to teaching the core skills required by students to fully prepare them for life and work in a global economy.

Forging a partnership and working with a school overseas who has also completed the training is a unique way to not only understand more about the education system of another country, but also compare approaches, take away new ideas and pedagogies, and ultimately build confidence in delivering the core skills in the classroom.”

Once teachers complete the Core Skills Professional Development training, schools are eligible to apply for an international partnership. As part of the programme, teachers incorporate teaching ‘21st century Core Skills’ into the curriculum, as well as to visit partner schools in the other country to exchange insights and ideas on how to improve teaching and learning in their schools.

This week, UK teachers will visit their partner school in South Africa and share their experiences and successes in teaching and implementing the Core Skills into their own curriculum.

The visit will culminate in a conference: Sharing good practice and celebrating professional partnerships (UK-SA) on 16 February 2017 at the Park Inn in Sandton, providing a platform for their success to be shared more widely.

Representatives from the South African Department of Basic Education and British Council Country Director, Colm McGivern will be in attendance. 

For more information about Connecting Classrooms, please contact Thabisa: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Notes to Editor

• Connecting Classrooms is a global education programme brought to schools by the British Council in partnership with the Department for International Development (DFID).
• It is a fully funded learning journey that includes face-to-face and online courses, international professional partnerships and visit funding opportunities based around core skills.
• The programme gives teachers and educational professionals the opportunity to develop classroom practice and develop ideas with like-minded teachers internationally.
• Before a school can apply for a professional partnership, it must complete one of the British Council’s fully-funded courses on teaching the core skills.
• To facilitate collaboration face to face, schools in the UK can apply for a £3,000 grant to take part in a project with an overseas school.
• By developing and networking with thousands of teachers across the world, the British Council aims to help young people develop the knowledge, skills and values to live and work in a globalised economy.
• The British Council has committed £17 million over three years to work across the globe.
• The UK government has additionally contributed £17 million to support partnerships between schools in the UK and developing countries.
• Thousands of schools will be supported to work together in over 30 countries across the world; to enhance teaching and learning for teachers and young people.
• For more information about Connecting Classrooms, please visit https://schoolsonline.britishcouncil.org/connecting-classrooms  or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

About the British Council

The British Council creates international opportunities for the people of the UK and other countries and builds trust between them worldwide. It is a Royal Charter charity, established as the UK’s international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural relations.

The Department for International Development

The Department for International Development (DFID) leads the UK’s work to end extreme poverty, building a safer, healthier, more prosperous world for all of us which is firmly in the UK’s national interest. We're ending the need for aid by creating jobs, unlocking the potential of girls and women and helping to save lives when humanitarian emergencies hit.Find out more at www.dfid.gov.uk  

“Drought has exposed the poor, or lack of, water management”  

“The drought that has impacted many regions within South Africa for a considerable length of time now has exposed the poor, or lack of, water management (monitoring and control) ability of many water institutions, as well as the difficulties and inability of municipalities and their consumers to be able to reduce their consumption when required” says Steve Gillham, General Manager: Engineering and Scientific Services, Umgeni Water and advisory board member of African Utility Week, the leading annual conference and exhibition with a strong focus on water management, taking place in Cape Town in May.

He adds: “there are many hard lessons being learnt by the affected water institutions that need to be shared and documented to improve the response for future drought events. Responses have come from national, provincial, water boards and municipalities to dry to address the situation. Certain initiatives have been more effective than others”.  

Water becoming scarce commodity
It may come as a surprise to some that globally South Africa is classified as a water-stressed country, with annual rainfall of about 492 millimetres compared to other areas with around 985 millimetres. The Western Cape is in a situation where the threat of water shedding is looming and currently on high alert with level 3B water restrictions.

“This vital resource needs our help!“ says Nicolette Pombo-van Zyl, editor of ESI-Africa, a leading power and water trade publication and session chair at African Utility Week, “and considering that water is increasingly becoming a scarce commodity, time has come for us to become extra mindful of our water usage as a way of life going forward, even after the restrictions are lifted in the future.” She explains: “the question to ask yourself is what your household and company are using potable water resources on. We were in a similar situation with electricity load shedding and rallied around backup generators, energy efficient light bulbs and switching off equipment in standby mode.”

Let us not fall back into old habits”
“The same applies to water” Nicolette adds, “the solutions are endless and people are coming up with innovative ways to manage their water usage more effectively, such as attaching extension pipes to outlets to run grey water straight into the garden. Incidentally, research has shown that gardens, toilets, baths and showers use the most water. So concentrate on managing these areas. Consider putting a layer of mulch around trees and plants to slow evaporation, choose water wise plants, opt for a rock garden instead or find alternatives such as artificial grass.”  

ESI Africa’s editor says: “Around the house fix dripping taps, do not let the water run whilst brushing your teeth or washing your hands. Try a ‘dry’ shower by turning off taps whilst soaping up – be bold, inventive and imagine a life without water as your inspiration.”  

She adds: “it is also very inspiring to hear about big apartment blocks in the city that have organised to give all the residents a big 10 litre bucket each to collect their grey water which is then used to water the gardens and used to clean the building and outside facilities.” “Let’s use our social media (neighbourhood Facebook and Whatsapp groups) to help each other manage this precious resource more efficiently. And most importantly, when the rain does come, let us not fall back into old habits. And let’s not forget that South Africa is celebrating the annual National Water Week next month from 16-19 March to raise awareness while World Water Day takes place on 22 March.”

Managing water services better
“Drinking water and wastewater utilities in Africa are struggling to cope with the increasing demand for services, especially in rapidly growing urban areas” says Evan Schiff, event director of African Utility Week. He continues: “responding adequately to this ever increasing demand necessitates strong and active partnerships between the private sector in particular and municipal governments”.

The water track at African Utility Week will bring together experts from public and private sectors to support utilities and municipalities become more responsive and efficient in their practices.  

Leading water and energy platform
African Utility Week takes place from 16-18 May 2017 at the CTICC in Cape Town, gathering over 7000 decision makers in the power and water sectors from more than 40 countries to source the latest solutions and meet over 300 suppliers. The expo will feature free to attend technical workshops and technology demonstrations.

KPMG is diamond sponsor Already leading global advisory firm KPMG has confirmed that it is returning to African Utility Week, this time as its exclusive diamond sponsorship. Other long-running supporters and industry stalwarts EPG, Landis+Gyr, Ontec and Shell are also back as platinum sponsors while Conlog, Oracle and Vodacom are gold sponsors again.

Part of the event is Energy Revolution Africa, a new platform for community scale projects, which will provide a unique forum for solution providers to meet with the new energy purchasers such as metros and municipalities, IPPs, rural electrification project developers and large power users, including mines, commercial property developers and industrial manufacturers.

African Utility Week and Energy Revolution Africa are organised by Spintelligent, a multi-award-winning exhibition and conference producer across the continent in the infrastructure, real estate, energy, mining, agriculture and education sectors. Other well-known events by Spintelligent include Agritech Expo Tanzania, CBM-TEC, Kenya Mining Forum, Future Energy East Africa (formerly EAPIC), Future Energy Nigeria (formerly WAPIC), Future Energy Central Africa (formerly iPAD Cameroon), iPAD Nigeria Mining Forum, DRC Mining Week and EduWeek. Spintelligent is part of the UK-based Clarion Events Group.

Dates for African Utility Week and Energy Revolution Africa:
Conference and expo: 16-18 May 2017
Awards gala dinner:  17 May 2016
Site visits: 19 May 2016
Location: CTICC, Cape Town, South Africa

Websites: http://www.african-utility-week.com    
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfricaUtilities   
Linkedin: African Power Forum

Contact: Senior communications manager:  Annemarie Roodbol
Telephone:  +27 21 700 3558
Mobile:  +27 82 562 7844
Email:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

- By Genesis Articles Global

Introduction  

Leading supplier of specialised Business Management (BMS) and Business Intelligence (BI) solutions    Lorge Consulting Services has done it again. The Midrand-based powerhouse service provider   celebrates yet another milestone achievement by successfully supplying and installing a turnkey software solution for a market leader with niche’-specific and intricately demanding operational needs. This time it was for none other than iconic Digital Signage Specialist, Ethniks.

About Client:  Ethniks  

Well, there’s a slim to zero chance that you haven’t directly or indirectly been exposed to Ethniks and their diverse range of innovative solutions. While you may not exactly know of them as “Ethniks, the Digital Signage Experts”, you’ve certainly come across their products and encountered their services on a frequent basis.  

For instance, they put a smile on so many faces at the many MacDonald’s franchises through the supply and maintenance of digital menus and other informative, alluring and high-tech signage. In other instances, they help you locate your favourite store in major malls and shopping centres through robust wayfinder technology. You will typically feel their presence at the likes of corporates, multinationals operating in a host of industries, banks - as well as public and private spaces that either rely on, or can be advanced by digital signage and similar products suited to divergent applications.  

Lorge mandated to deliver technologically adept solution for Ethniks  

In January of 2016 discussions ensued between Ethniks and Lorge. The primary focus was to identify and implement a solution that would effectively address a major logistic and operational area. This dealt with being able to equip field technicians to not only communicate more efficiently in terms of day-to-day tasks, but also execute such duties with greater ease. In other words, the solution needed to enable enhanced functionality and interactivity. This would be in lieu of delivering technical, support, customer related as well as internal requests with superior efficiency and superb accuracy while working in the field or on the move.  

The recommended solution  

As a platinum certified Sage partner for over two decades, Lorge is a preferred supplier and implementer of associated products including Sage 300. This in conjunction with a relevant and comprehensive CRM solution was proposed and accepted as the solution of choice. A crucial component of the solution installed by Lorge, involved mobile technology. This represented a groundbreaking leap for the already well-established digital signage giant. While the installation as well as sophisticated tools and technology used can be rather technical, in layman’s terms this meant that the field technicians would be able to receive repair and related instructions via their mobile devices. They would also be able to attend to specific changes and reparations remotely – all in real time. It is interesting to also note that Ethniks digital solutions are underpinned by satellite transmission, making their adaptability, dynamic nature and service support extremely stable and responsive. The installed system needed to factor this consideration into the product, installation, and after-sales requirements.  

CRM Product Manager at Lorge, Gustav du Plessis, Sage 300 Product Manager, Riekie Roux as well as Senior CRM Consultant, Glen Taylor, discussed the extent of the project as well as the intricate requirements for a successful installation. They confirmed that despite the complex nature of the implemented solution - which needed to be installed in a manner consistent with the high service-standards established by Lorge - the project rollout was seamlessly facilitated from March of 2016, with the system going live effective July 2016.                

Benefits to Ethniks  

In addition to the specific operational advantages of the above software solution, extensive system-wide benefits include considerable time-saving on previous processes - from quoting to technical updates executed. This naturally translates to improved technical and associated responsiveness, more effective communication, cost-savings in the medium to long term, minimised downtime, increased productivity, stronger customer service delivery and ultimately an improved top line.  

Spokesperson for Ethniks and company accountant, Jaco le Roux, also confirmed that the organisation is already experiencing the positive impact of the relatively new system. They remain firmly confident in the training, ongoing support and effectiveness of the new software solution provided by Lorge. He also indicated that Ethniks has just begun to scratch the surface so to speak of the vastly intelligent software solution and its extensive capabilities.              

To fully understand the solution delivered by Lorge it is worthwhile to consider the broad service and product offering of Ethniks in a little more detail. As a veteran of close on 30 years specialisation, Ethniks provides premium-quality infrastructure in conjunction with pioneering software and creative content integration - including customisation, implementation, technical and customer support. Products range all the way from general digital signage, to interactive information kiosks, to platforms suitable for employee training, solutions capable of interfacing with virtually any data source such as point-of-sale systems, others capable of integrating mobile friendly features like social media and much more. Furthermore, it’s no surprise that they deliver internationally acclaimed solutions, being partnered with SCALA software that power more than half a million screens in over one hundred countries.  

Lorge leads the way  

Lorge, as a multi-award winning organisation, is a preferred supplier and implementer of Sage X3, Sage 300, Sage CRM and Qlikview business and technology solutions in Africa. The company has implemented over 10 000 users across divergent economic sectors and is a trusted supplier for over 250 companies, more than a third of which are listed on the JSE Securities Exchange.  

Additionally, the Ethniks project symbolises a new chapter in the expanding specialisation of Lorge’s service capabilities. This is paramount in a technologically advancing era that demands solutions which are increasingly mobile-friendly, more robust and align to progressive business and end-user trends. The success of this project also paves the way for the digital marketing industry as a whole, notwithstanding other industries that provide innovative solutions for the modern consumer and rely heavily on field technicians.  

For further information on Sage 300, or to discuss your current enterprise needs, simply contact our Sales Department on 010 594 9800. 

Media Contact

This Press Release is proudly brought to you by communications specialists Genesis Articles on behalf of Lorge Consulting Services

Organisation: Genesis Articles Global - a division of Genesis Group

Website: www.genesisarticles.co.za 

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Contact person: Mark David Sing

Contact Number: +27 76 450 6739

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