MEA Markets- Q1 2025 Featuring: CREATIVE AGENCY
News We are only a few months into 2025 and we see continual growth on the horizon for many organizations. Join us for this issue as we uncover and celebrate those hidden gems as well as highlight the developments of the corporate landscape across the vibrant region. Featuring our Best Branding & Advertising Agency 2024 - Middle East and Best Infrastructure & Workload Management Company 2024 – Botswana, as well as a plethora of success stories from around the world in our news pieces, we are proud to present our quarterly magazine to you – our valued readers. We hope you enjoy perusing this issue and we wish you a wonderful quarter ahead. In the meantime, we look forward to welcoming you back again soon for the Q2 issue of MEA Markets magazine. Welcome to the Q1 2025 issue of MEA Markets magazine. As always, we are dedicated to providing our readers with all the latest news and features from across the Middle East and Africa. AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.
News Contents 4. News 6. Spectrum Analytics: Best Infrastructure & Workload Management Company 2024 – Botswana 8. MOON LINES: Best Branding & Advertising Agency 2024 – Middle East 9. Cash Crunch Pushes Libyans to Bank Cards Despite Hurdles 10. Technology Paves the Way for Sustainable Mining in Africa 6. 8.
News Empowering Mining with Green Innovation: SANY Unveils Africa’s Largest Solar-Storage-Diesel Microgrid On December 29th, SANY Silicon Energy reached a significant milestone in the international “Solar + Storage + Diesel” microgrid power generation sector by launching the Zambia Ruida Mining Microgrid Power Project. This initiative is recognized as Africa’s largest single-unit hybrid microgrid designed for mining operations, highlighting SANY’s commitment to promoting green energy transformation and sustainable development throughout the region. Distinguished as Africa’s largest microgrid project designed for mining activities, the venture encompasses a 13 MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system in conjunction with a 39 MWh battery energy storage system and a diesel generator as a backup power source. These components synergize to form a cutting-edge integrated microgrid system seamlessly harmonizing solar, storage, and diesel technologies. The project’s primary objective is to ensure a steadfast and dependable electricity supply for mining operations, consequently achieving energy self-sufficiency, diminishing reliance on conventional energy sources, and bolstering energy efficiency and sustainability. Exhibiting the hallmark “SANY Speed,” the project swiftly progressed from the signing of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) to its commissioning within a mere four months. Despite navigating challenges posed by Zambia’s intricate topography, severe climate conditions, and logistical impediments stemming from underdeveloped infrastructure, our team demonstrated remarkable adaptability and operational efficiency. The successful inauguration of this project signifies a pivotal juncture in SANY’s eco-conscious mining endeavors across Africa. It lays a robust groundwork for the continent’s green energy trajectory and reinforces our unwavering dedication to advancing sustainable energy solutions on a global scale. Drawing on the expertise and technological capabilities developed through this initiative, SANY is dedicated to “Illuminating Africa” at “SANY Speed.” By actively driving the implementation of additional green energy projects, SANY seeks to lead global renewable energy trends and contribute Chinese innovation to the worldwide energy transition.
News Healthcare Technology Company Light AI Partners with MrBeast to Provide AI-Powered Strep A Testing in Africa Light AI Inc. a global healthcare technology company focused on developing artificial intelligence health diagnostic and wellness solutions, is partnering with MrBeast Industries to launch a Streptococcus A (Strep A) test donation initiative in Africa. The collaboration is featured in a Beast Philanthropy video, which premiered February 16, 2025, on YouTube. Businessman and social media star, Jimmy Donaldson (aka “MrBeast”) operates the world’s largest YouTube channel and is known for his viral philanthropic projects. His charity channel, Beast Philanthropy, donates 100% of its revenue to charitable causes, tackling urgent global issues. Through this partnership, the Company will donate AI-powered Strep A tests, enabling faster and more accessible diagnosis in underserved regions of Africa. Viral and GAS pharyngitis affects over 600 million people annually, and if untreated, can lead to Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)—a fatal condition with an annual global economic burden exceeding $1 trillion. Light AI’s technology offers a significant advancement in the accurate and timely diagnosis of GAS pharyngitis, potentially reducing the incidence of RHD and its associated costs. “We’re excited to partner with Light AI to help stop rheumatic heart disease at its root cause which is Strep A. Their AIpowered technology makes early detection accessible and affordable, helping save lives in communities that need it most,” stated Donaldson. “We are honored to partner with MrBeast to address and enhance health and wellness in Africa. Strep A infects up to 600 million people annually and is the root cause of rheumatic heart disease, which causes up to 350,000 deaths annually. Light AI is tackling the root cause of a serious yet preventable disease,” stated Peter Whitehead, Chief Executive Officer of Light AI. “Light AI’s technology is simple, affordable, accessible, and powerful, built to detect Strep A instantly, and its immediate detection is the answer to preventing life-threatening conditions like rheumatic heart disease and making a positive impact.”
MEA | Q1 2025 Best Infrastructure & Workload Management Company 2024 – Botswana Businesses around the world are becoming increasingly dependent on data to effectively run their day-to-day operations and make educated business decisions. Data management facilitates communication, automation, and the discovery of information, but it can also be an incredibly challenging task for businessowners. Enter Spectrum Analytics – a digital innovation studio that enables enterprises to adapt and thrive in the evolving digital economy. Tebogo Mogaleemang, Founder and Organisation Lead, tells us more below. Located in Gaborone, Spectrum Analytics has dominated the market with its stellar solutions, empowering businesses and enterprises to innovate using their data, particularly those within the mining, telecommunications, and banking and finance sectors. The company serves clients who have struggled to leverage the substantial volumes of generated data, which impacts their decision-making, innovation, and ability to identify new business opportunities. To tackle these challenges and enable clients to unlock the full value of their data, Spectrum Analytics addresses modern infrastructure, workload, and data management obstacles through a wide range of services, including data analytics, cloud optimisation, and data discovery. Regardless its clients’ size or ability, Spectrum Analytics promises to deliver top value through expert consultancy services and exceptional solutions. When partnering with Spectrum Analytics, businesses are guaranteed to optimise their IT infrastructure, improve their data management, and ultimately drive the innovation and growth of their operations. With core values comprising in authenticity, trust, learning, impact, and empathy, the company prioritises creating customised solutions that are designed to align with each client’s unique needs. These values have not changed since Spectrum Analytics’s 2017 establishment; the company merely continues to evolve the languages used. “At Spectrum Analytics, we’re not just a data company; we’re a value-driven partner committed to empowering our clients’ success in the digital economy,” Tebogo tells us. “We understand that every organisation is at a different stage in the journey to be data-driven, hence we always meet our customers where they are. That’s why we take a personalised approach, meeting our clients where they need us and tailoring solutions to their specific needs.” In the years since its founding, Spectrum Analytics has established numerous partnerships with industry leaders that allow the company to provide access to bestin-class technologies and solutions. The company actively innovates and continually builds upon these technologies to deliver impactful and unique solutions that directly address its clients’ most pressing challenges, a commitment to value creation and innovation that truly sets Spectrum Analytics’s client service far apart from its competitors. For Spectrum Analytics, authenticity is a crucial quality that guides its daily operations. The company believes in building trust through transparent communication and forming genuine relationships across the industry, which means being upfront about its capabilities, actively listening to concerns raised by clientele, and always acting with integrity. Through this approach, Spectrum Analytics has carefully cultivated a client service experience that is both reliable and supportive, cementing itself as the trusted partner for any business seeking longterm growth through optimal data management. With a client service philosophy deeply rooted in continuous learning and exceeding expectations, Spectrum Analytics strives to foster a culture in which every experience, positive or negative, is a learning opportunity. This commitment to growth ensures that the team never grows complacent and is always working to better understand and meet the evolving needs of its client base. By routinely investing in the development of its team, encouraging open communication amongst members via client feedback sessions and internal reviews, and promoting a culture of ownership, Spectrum Analytics successfully maintains its exceptionally high standards of service. This approach has enabled the company to build a solid reputation throughout the industry and its community for being an expert in its field, committed to providing the very best services. This reverence for learning and improvement is reflected in the company’s internal culture, shaping an environment of shared growth and innovation. Spectrum Analytics encourages knowledge sharing, mentorship, and continuous skill development throughout the workforce to empower employees and push them to reach their full potentials within their roles. “We have fostered a dynamic and collaborative learning environment since day one,” Tebogo states. “We believe that continuous learning is essential for success in today’s ever-evolving technological landscape. While fostering this learning culture requires ongoing effort, the benefits are undeniable; it enables us to attract top talent, drive innovation, and adapt to the changing needs of our clients and their industry.” This belief has been deeply ingrained in the company’s recruitment process; when hiring new talent, Spectrum Analytics seeks out individuals who are not only skilled, but also demonstrate a strong desire to learn and grow. This means that the company can seamlessly integrate new hires who are capable of adapting quickly to new challenges and technologies and confident in contributing ideas and opinions to the team. Spectrum Analytics is not only passionate about its own people, but also the wider community; the company believes in making a positive impact that extends beyond the scope of business and is dedicated to developing talent outside of its workforce by supporting the growth of the tech community throughout Botswana. Since 2018, Spectrum Analytics has sponsored various developer community events in order to contribute to the development of local skills. What’s more the company has also aided more than 20 students in graduating from local institutions by offering them internships, providing valuable educational experiences that boost their prospects. Furthermore, Spectrum Analytics also believes in utilising data for good. It has demonstrated the value of data in the journey of achieving Sustainable Development Goals by addressing community challenges in social protection and health. With one of its primary core aims being to make a positive impact in its community, Spectrum Analytics takes every opportunity available to deliver meaningful change throughout Botswana by utilising its exceptional skillset. Being located in the MEA region, and Botswana in particular, presents Spectrum Analytics with a unique business landscape; whilst there is
7 Best Infrastructure & Workload Management Company 2024 – Botswana a growing recognition of the value of data, Tebogo tells us that many enterprises are still working to catch up with technology adoption, creating a comprehensive suite of challenges and opportunities for the company. Unfortunately, some enterprises are simply not ready for the advanced solutions offered by Spectrum Analytics, which means that they cannot accept the services. This also means, however, that there is significant potential for growth and impact as the company guides its clientele through their journey to becoming data driven. Another challenge currently being faced throughout Botswana is the country’s skills shortage. Spectrum Analytics heavily invests in developing local talent within its community but is also faces fierce competition from larger corporations who are known to poach skilled employees, including the talent Spectrum Analytics has invested into developing. On top of that, data protection regulations, advancements in artificial intelligence, and the increasing demand for IT infrastructure modernisation have significantly impacted the industry in Botswana. These trends have created data management challenges for organisations, meaning that Spectrum Analysis’s expert presence is needed more than ever in this changing climate. “We’ve adapted by helping businesses navigate these complexities, offering solutions for data protection compliance, AI integration, and cloud strategy optimisation,” Tebogo informs us. “Despite the challenges, we see immense opportunity in the MEA region. The increasing focus on digital transformation and the growing recognition of data’s importance position us well for continued success, fortifying our commitment to help businesses in Botswana and beyond unlock the full potential of their data.” Since its inception, Spectrum Analytics has been diligently working to empower its clientele, boosting their businesses and optimising their data through superb solutions. 2024 was a landmark year for the company, filled with impactful projects that have truly made a real difference. Spectrum Analytics was incredibly proud to have partnered with Airculus, an Australian-based consultancy company, to modernise Botswana’s national payment systems, creating an exceptional blueprint for making transactions faster, more affordable, and accessible to all. The company has also played a crucial role in supporting Botswana’s democratic process by providing IT services to the Independent Electoral Commission during the general elections. Tebogo tells us that it was an honour for Spectrum Analytics to contribute towards this historic event, which resulted in the country’s first change of government since gaining independence. Building off the back of this incredibly successful year, we ask Tebogo what is next for Spectrum Analytics, named Best Infrastructure and Workload Management Company 2024 – Botswana. “Looking ahead, we’re excited to expand our reach and impact even further,” he tells us. “We are actively seeking new collaborations, enhancing our capabilities to meet the evolving needs of our clients, and exploring opportunities to expand beyond Botswana’s borders. At Spectrum Analytics, we’re not just building a company; we are building a legacy of innovation and positive change in the MEA region. We are passionate about empowering businesses to thrive in the digital age, and we are committed to shaping a brighter future for all through data.” Contact: Tebogo Mogaleemang Company: Spectrum Analytics Web Address: https://www.spectrumcs.com/
MEA | Q1 2025 8 Best Branding & Advertising Agency 2024 – Middle East In recent years, the marketing industry has seen a significant increase in the demand for unique and customised creative solutions. Nowadays, companies are no longer satisfied with standard designs and generic campaigns, instead seeking individuality in the form of distinctive designs, innovative ideas, and personalised user experiences. This shift has been an outstanding opportunity for an emerging company such as MOON LINES to shine, renowned for its ability to craft truly one-of-a-kind advertising solutions. Following its recent win in the MEA Business Awards 2024, we learn more from MOON LINES’s Founder and CEO, Maamoon Sarieddine. t its core, MOON LINES is a company that views every new project as a blank canvas, and every client a new source of inspiration. Founded in 2021, this leading Lebanon-based advertising agency specialises in delivering innovative advertising, branding, and digital solutions to clientele on a global scale. Since its establishment, MOON LINES has worked with a diverse portfolio of clients across industries, ranging from multinational corporations to startups and local businesses. Over the years, MOON LINES has seen significant success that can be attributed to its core values of passion, integrity, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence. These values have remained at the heart of everything the business does since its very inception, guiding its creative process and ensuring that every project reflects its unwavering commitment to innovation and quality. “While our techniques and strategies have evolved with market trends and technological advancements, our core values remain unchanged,” Maamoon tells us. “Our philosophy behind client service is simple yet impactful: our clients’ success is our success. We believe in forging lasting partnerships by understanding our clients’ unique needs, goals, and challenges. Every project we take on is treated with the same level of passion and commitment, no matter the size or scope.” As such, MOON LINES stands out from its competitors by focusing on what is truly important to its clientele. The company is driven by a team of experienced professionals, possessing extensive knowledge from a wide range of industries that it brings to every project. This broad expertise enables the agency to tackle challenges from multiple angles, providing solutions that are not only creative but also strategically sound and industry specific. Remaining relevant is a crucial aspect of any business hoping to succeed, but most especially for the advertising sector. As an advertising agency serving clients in Lebanon and across the Middle East, Maamoon tells us that MOON LINES is deeply rooted in a region that is as dynamic as it is challenging. Lebanon has faced significant economic and financial difficulties in recent years, including political instability, inflation, and a weakened infrastructure, challenges that have impacted businesses across all sectors, including MOON LINES. “At MOON LINES, however, we view these obstacles not as setbacks but as opportunities to showcase resilience, innovations, and adaptability,” says Maamoon. “Despite the hardships, our team has remained steadfast and determined, embodying the spirit of creativity and hard work. we believe that our success is even sweeter because of what we’ve endured together. Our consistent team has risen above these challenges by finding unique solutions, crafting impactful campaigns, and proving that even in adversity, great ideas can thrive.” The Middle East continues to present immense opportunities, marked by a growing digital landscape and an increasing demand for innovative marketing solutions. For MOON LINES, the challenges faced have only strengthened the company’s resolve to deliver excellence, leveraging its location to expand its reach and empower its clients to successfully adapt to the changing markets. The creative industries are constantly evolving, and MOON LINES prides itself on its ability to adapt and innovate in the face of change. Through prioritising continuous learning, utilising research-driven strategies, and embracing advances to technology, the advertising agency has proven itself an effective partner for any business looking to embark upon their advertising journey. 2024 has been a year characterised by growth, innovation, and continued success for MOON LINES. Since its inception, the company has proudly represented Lebanese creativity on a regional scale and remains committed to empowering every client to succeed regardless of their industry or project size, crafting powerful campaigns that effectively resonate across diverse markets. “At the beginning of the year,” Maamoon concludes, “we are focused on further strengthening our position as a top creative advertising agency in the region, while continuing to deliver exceptional results for our clients through bold ideas, original designs, and cutting-edge solutions.” Contact: Maamoon Sarieddine Company: MOON LINES Web Address: https://www.moonlines.net/ A CREATIVE AGENCY
MEA | Q1 2025 9 Across most Libyan cities, withdrawing money is akin to an obstacle course in which hundreds wait, often for hours, outside heavily guarded banks for a turn to take out cash In Libya, a shortage of cash in the banking system has pushed many to turn to cards for payments after more than a decade of war and instability has hammered the country’s financial system. Across most Libyan cities, withdrawing money is akin to an obstacle course in which hundreds wait, often for hours, outside heavily guarded banks for a turn to take out cash. But the money all too often runs out early due to short supply. Mistrust in that system means money is rarely reinjected back into banks, with Libyans preferring instead to keep cash on hand. And while cashless culture has yet to take root, “the younger generations are easily adopting it”, said Abdullah al-Gatet, an employee at a bank in Misrata, the country’s third largest city. Withdrawals at bank counters are capped at 1,000 dinars ($206) each time. This, along with the cash shortage, means civil servants who make up the bulk of Libya’s working population often receive their salaries late. There is a growing awareness among Libyans of “the importance of electronic solutions to facilitate daily transactions, especially in times of liquidity crisis”, said 30-year-old Gatet, “even if the infrastructure is still insufficient”. Shift in awareness Libya has been wracked by instability and conflict since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that overthrew and killed longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi. It is currently divided between a United Nations-recognised government in the capital Tripoli and a rival administration in the east backed by general Khalifa Haftar. In Misrata, a major port city and commercial hub about 200 kilometres (120 miles) from Tripoli, the population of 400,000 are increasingly signing up to receive bank cards. But the shift towards cash-free transactions is not without stumbling blocks. There are few ATM machines and many vendors do not accept card payments as they are not equipped with payment terminals. Economist Khaled al-Delfaq, 42, said that while the shortages have pushed many to shift to using cards, there needs to be an accompanying shift in awareness, and work needs to be done to “make these services more accessible”. But in the seeming absence of other options, many have already been converted. Among those are Mohamed al-Soussi, who was shopping for his family at a supermarket in Misrata. “Transactions are more simple with the card. I don’t need to carry large wads of cash with me anymore,” he said. Divided central bank Libya’s political upheaval has also precipitated another strange side-effect — multiple prints of 50-dinar banknotes. Libya’s institutions have since 2014 been caught between the two camps vying for power in the oil-rich country, and its central bank is no exception. Until last year, it had been split in two, with an internationally recognised headquarters in the capital and another in the east, with each printing bills signed off by their respective governors. In 2012, new 50-dinar bills, the largest available denomination, were put into circulation to make life easier for consumers who often make cash payments in the thousands. But last April, the central bank announced the withdrawal of those notes from circulation due to the proliferation of counterfeits. “The situation became even more complicated with businesses refusing the 50-dinar bills,” said Moussab al-Haddar, a 45-year-old teacher who was visiting his bank branch to request a card. The central bank had initially set a deadline for the end of August for the notes to go out of circulation, before extending it to the end of the year. In a bid to address the current crisis, the bank injected 15 billion dinars into the system in late October, while urging banks to facilitate the issuing of cards to clients. Cash Crunch Pushes Libyans to Bank Cards Despite Hurdles
MEA | Q1 2025 10 Jul23190 Technology Paves the Way for Sustainable Mining in Africa The extraction of valuable minerals like lithium and cobalt could be leveraged to create local industries, such as battery manufacturing, enhancing intra-African trade Africa is working to become a global leader in sustainable mining, transitioning from traditional methods to more environmentally friendly practices. In late 2023, an innovative biological oxidation technique was introduced to gold mining operations in Zimbabwe, reducing pollution. This method uses bacteria to feed on sulphur in sulphide ores, eliminating the need for processes like burning sulphur, which can cause acid rain. This advancement has led to a 20% reduction in pollution and a decrease in the use of chemicals like mercury and cyanide. At the macro level, the need for beneficiation is core to Africa’s mining future. With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) opening new opportunities, there must be focus on processing raw materials locally to ensure the economic benefits stay within the continent. The extraction of valuable minerals like lithium and cobalt could be leveraged to create local industries, such as battery manufacturing, enhancing intra-African trade and fostering economic growth. The AfCFTA has the potential to drive industrialisation by fostering collaboration between African nations. However, this requires the establishment of local beneficiation facilities that process raw materials within the continent, keeping value chains in Africa and creating new opportunities for local economies. By focusing on beneficiation of key resources, African countries could secure greater control over their mineral wealth, ensuring that they retain a larger share of the economic value derived from their natural resources. Technology can deliver sustainable mining Technological advancements are driving sustainable mining. The rise of hydrogen power plants, wind and solar integration, and the use of digital tools for data analytics are transforming the industry. In Zimbabwe, HDF Energy is pioneering hydrogen plants powered by renewable sources, offering cleaner, off-grid power for mining operations. Additionally, the use of digital tools and data analytics in underground mining is helping optimise energy consumption, improve safety, and reduce operational costs, presenting a path toward greener and more efficient mining. More than just green Yet, the benefits of technology go beyond pollution reduction. Digital tools, including data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI), are increasingly being leveraged to optimise mining operations. These technologies help manage safety, monitor environmental factors, and improve the efficiency of resource use. For instance, AI is being used to design more efficient underground mines and track energy consumption. Additionally, the integration of renewable energy sources such as hydrogen, wind and solar power in mines is transforming energy management, reducing reliance on polluting coal-fired power plants and cutting down carbon emissions. Africa embracing clean energy Several mines have embraced clean energy solutions. First Quantum Minerals in Zambia teamed up with Chariot and Total Eren to develop a 430MW solar and wind project for its operations. Barrick Gold Corporation in the DR Congo unveiled a 16MW solar farm with battery storage to supplement the Kibali gold mine’s hydropower during the dry season. Kinross Gold in Mauritania is building a 34MW battery system alongside an 18MW system at its Tasiast mine. Rossing Uranium in Namibia is planning a 15MW AC solar PV plant. Blanket Mine in Zimbabwe has installed a 12MW solar plant, meeting 30% of its electricity needs. Growth challenges However, for Africa’s mining sector to truly embrace these technologies, substantial challenges remain. Mining operations are typically long-term endeavors, often taking years to develop and yielding returns over extended periods. This long development cycle creates a disconnect between the rapid pace of technological advancement and the slowmoving nature of mining. As a result, mining companies can struggle to integrate the latest innovations, which may render earlier designs obsolete by the time extraction begins. Overcoming this requires proactive investments in technology from the outset, integrating AIdriven designs into mine planning to ensure long-term adaptability. Natural resource management Another key hurdle is ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources, particularly water. Waste management in mining is crucial, and advances in digital tools allow for the design of tailings dams and waste systems that prevent harmful runoff into fresh water sources. Technologies also help minimise water consumption during the mining process itself, further reducing environmental damage. To accelerate the adoption of these technologies, African governments must play an active role by developing legislation tailored to the continent’s specific needs. Current global standards, while helpful, do not always reflect the unique challenges African mining companies face. Africa’s moment For technology to truly transform Africa’s mining sector, it must be complemented by a focus on collaboration and investment in local industries. Partnerships with global mining companies and technology providers can accelerate the transfer of knowledge and expertise, but the real success will lie in Africa’s ability to develop homegrown solutions that cater to its unique context. Sustainable mining in Africa requires the adoption of innovative technologies, smart regulatory frameworks, and greater regional collaboration. If these elements are successfully integrated, Africa’s mining sector can not only meet the demands of the global market but also contribute to the continent’s long-term economic and environmental sustainability.
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