By Africa Links 24
Published on 2024-01-25 10:19:21
Naspers is a South African tech giant with an extensive global reach, even though many of its services are used by customers who may not be aware of the company behind them. The company, established in 1915, has managed to reinvent itself as a prominent player in the tech sector, operating not only in South Africa but also in diverse markets such as Europe, India, and Brazil, serving over two billion customers.
Under the leadership of Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa, Naspers has become a major force in the tech ecosystem in South Africa and the rest of the continent. The company runs popular consumer brands such as Mr D Food, Takealot, Superbalist, AutoTrader, Property24, PayU, and Media24. One of its ventures, Takealot, is a direct competitor to the global e-commerce and logistics giant, Amazon.
Despite the challenges posed by formidable rivals like Amazon, Mahanyele-Dabengwa stresses the importance of supporting locally developed businesses in Africa. Naspers, however, is not a small company, having a significant presence in markets as far-reaching as China, India, and Brazil. The company’s remarkable growth was fueled by its transformative investment in Chinese tech giant Tencent.
Furthermore, Naspers is focused on deploying artificial intelligence to improve its various businesses across the globe. However, Mahanyele-Dabengwa also acknowledges the need for more digital skills in Africa, particularly in the field of AI. Naspers has launched initiatives to provide digital skilling to young people, aiming to bridge the gap between Africa and other continents in terms of digital innovation and skills.
Sustainability is another key area of focus for Naspers, with Mahanyele-Dabengwa emphasizing the company’s dedication to operating in a sustainable manner. This includes tracking energy use, utilizing electric vehicles, and reducing air travel. Despite its 108-year history, Naspers is committed to taking on challenges from modern tech giants and remaining competitive in the industry.
