Pierre du Plessis, strategist and founder of Be Brave, and the event’s guest speaker, explored how trust, culture and meaningful engagement can transform teams and communities, touching on the  of ‘tribes’ – small, connected groups where people feel seen, trusted and valued. 

“Profit and growth are lagging indicators of deep chemistry, not ,” he told attendees. “The board may set a strategy, but the tribe makes it real. Only the tribe builds the movement.”

Through storytelling and practical examples, Du Plessis illustrated why connection matters more than metrics alone, and why shared experiences are valued over shortcuts. 

“Trust is fundamental to any team,” he explained. “It enables conflict, commitment, accountability and ultimately meaningful outcomes.”

Research highlighted at the session reinforced these insights. Gallup studies show that, globally, only 21% of employees feel truly engaged at work, while actively disengaged employees can undermine entire teams. Loneliness and over- in organisations not only erode morale but also have measurable influences on productivity and wellbeing. 

“Humans are pack animals,” Du Plessis emphasised. “We thrive in communities, not in isolation.”

The session also explored the concept of meaning and transcendence at work. Drawing from examples ranging from Trappist monks to special needs teachers, Du Plessis argued that fulfilling work is about impact, not just a pay packet. “These Belgian monks produce some of the world’s best beer,” he said, “but their purpose isn’t profit, it’s sustaining the community. Meaning  performance; profit is a side effect.”

As organisations grapple with digital transformation and AI-driven workflows, this message resonates: human connection remains a competitive advantage. This philosophy is also shaping AFSUG’s own strategic direction.

“At AFSUG’s local �鶹ԭ�� user conference, �鶹ԭ��HILA, last year, we spoke about  our community and establishing our tribe, and this is exactly what we’re doing as an organisation,” explained Amanda Gibbs, AFSUG CEO. 

“AFSUG has reached an inflection point – one where we’ve looked back at why the organisation was originally founded: as a peer-to-peer customer networking platform that helps customers bridge the gap with �鶹ԭ��. We are now  a path towards a community that is purpose-led, operationally sound and designed for  impact across .

“The shift we are putting into place is to move away from being event-driven, reactive and purely informational, towards becoming outcomes-driven, influential and insight-led. The pivotal role that AFSUG must play is as the trusted voice of the African �鶹ԭ�� community and an independent advocate.”

AFSUG chairman Duke Mathebula echoed Gibbs’ statement, adding that the organisation is committed to action, structured advocacy and creating real, measurable value for the local �鶹ԭ�� community, as well as empowering transformation.

“True impact comes from creating tribes of engaged, courageous and committed people who can make a real difference, and this is exactly how AFSUG plans to move forward,” he said.

The post Why Trust and ‘Tribes’ Still Matter in an Age of Metrics appeared first on �鶹ԭ�� Africa News Center.

These events brought together 100+ students, industry leaders, and �鶹ԭ�� partners for a transformative experience, focused on building employability skills, networking opportunities, and preparing young talent for future careers in the �鶹ԭ�� ecosystem.

The Student Career Days featured a rich mix of content designed to equip students for success in the �鶹ԭ�� ecosystem and beyond:

• Skill-building workshops — CV refinement, LinkedIn profiling, interview readiness, and effective communication.
• Keynote speeches & panels — Insights from �鶹ԭ�� practitioners, industry partners, and leaders on market trends, in-demand competencies, and career journeys into tech.
• Mentorship and networking — Opportunities for students to connect directly with �鶹ԭ�� partners and customers for guidance, advice, and even exposure to internship and job opportunities.
• Exposure to �鶹ԭ�� technologies and careers — First-hand introductions to �鶹ԭ�� career paths, the skills they demand, and strategies to prepare for them.

AFSUG & �鶹ԭ�� University Alliances: Shared Vision

These career days form part of AFSUG and �鶹ԭ�� University Alliances joint mission in the region to Connect, Create, Collaborate — ensuring Africa’s next generation of professionals is not only prepared for �鶹ԭ�� careers but also inspired to drive digital transformation across the continent.

Amanda Gibbs, CEO of AFSUG, shared: “This event is about building real pathways for students to connect with our �鶹ԭ�� community — customers, partners, and leaders. Together with �鶹ԭ�� University Alliances, we are investing in the future of our youth and ensuring students leave empowered, inspired, and ready for the opportunities ahead.” I want to especially thank De Wet Naude from �鶹ԭ�� University Alliances for the collaboration and making these events possible through his sponsorship and collaboration.

Looking Ahead

AFSUG and �鶹ԭ�� University Alliances will continue hosting career-oriented initiatives in 2026. With overwhelmingly positive student feedback, both organisations are committed to expanding mentorship opportunities, reaching more universities, and providing follow-up support to help students transform their learnings and networks into real career outcomes.

About AFSUG

The African �鶹ԭ�� User Group (AFSUG) is an independent, non-profit organisation representing �鶹ԭ�� customers and partners across Africa. AFSUG enables collaboration, influence, knowledge exchange, and professional development within the �鶹ԭ�� community.

The post AFSUG & �鶹ԭ�� University Alliances Hosted Three Inspiring Student Career Days Across South Africa appeared first on �鶹ԭ�� Africa News Center.

These individuals bring a combined wealth of leadership, strategic insight and deep industry knowledge to further AFSUG’s mission of fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange and �鶹ԭ������across the African continent.

The newly appointed AFSUG board members are:

• , Chief Operating Officer, Discovery Ltd – Sing brings four decades of expertise in operational leadership and business transformation, with a deep commitment to strategic innovation and developing future �鶹ԭ�� talent across Africa.
• , Senior Manager ERP, South African National Blood Service (SANBS)����– Thupana offers a distinctive blend of �鶹ԭ�� technical depth and public sector insight, with a passion for building collaborative communities that elevate user experience and solution adoption.
• , Group Vice President: Technology and Digital, AECI Limited – Dlamini contributes a visionary approach to digital transformation, platform modernisation and mentoring future leaders, driven by her strategic mindset and experience leading large-scale enterprise initiatives.
• , Senior Associate Partner – �鶹ԭ�� Practice Co-Lead Africa, EY – Somaru brings strategic influence, �鶹ԭ�� expertise and an unmatched commitment to inclusion, knowledge sharing and mentorship for women and youth in the �鶹ԭ�� ecosystem.

��������� , AFSUG CEO: “We are honoured to welcome these exceptional individuals to the AFSUG Board. Their leadership, industry depth, and dedication to community-��will play a critical role in shaping the future of �鶹ԭ�� users across��.”

“We are entering a bold new chapter at AFSUG,” adds AFSUG Chairman, . “I am thrilled to welcome Kammy, Nthabiseng, Sne and Tejal to the Board. Their diverse experiences and shared passion for driving transformation will help us expand our impact, amplify our members’ voices, and accelerate����across the �鶹ԭ�� ecosystem in��.”

The post AFSUG Welcomes New Board Members, Strengthens �鶹ԭ�� Community Leadership across Africa appeared first on �鶹ԭ�� Africa News Center.

With more than

Celebrating community and connection

AFSUG CEO Amanda Gibbs opened the conference with a heartfelt message about the power of community. �鶹ԭ��HILA, she noted, is not simply a conference but a movement – a living, breathing platform designed to enable knowledge-sharing and drive transformation across industries. Her words set the tone for a gathering built on purpose and progress.

Duke Mathebula, technology leader and AFSUG chairman, joined Gibbs in opening �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 with a resonant message: “We are Africans.” That sentiment echoed throughout the event, capturing the essence of a proud, purposeful and visionary community committed to transcending the present and reimagining the future.

A special tribute was made to the late Reg Barry, a foundational figure in the �鶹ԭ�� ecosystem and former �鶹ԭ��HILA chair. Barry’s enduring legacy was respectfully acknowledged throughout the event – a reminder of the power of collaboration and community that continues to shape AFSUG and its members.

A sporting start and an immersive experience

�鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 began with a relaxed networking day on Sunday, offering attendees the chance to connect over golf, Padel championships and other sporting activities. It set a friendly, collegial tone ahead of the more structured insight sessions on 2 and 3 June.

Morning plenary sessions were followed by dynamic workshops and demonstrations, while the expansive Expo Centre served as a major highlight, featuring 53 sponsors with visually impressive and engaging stands. The exhibition floor created invaluable opportunities for delegates to explore technologies, engage with vendors and experience first-hand the innovation driving �鶹ԭ��’s ecosystem forward.

The call for visionary leadership

Nazia Pillay, MD at �鶹ԭ�� Southern Africa, delivered a powerful keynote exploring �鶹ԭ��’s 34-year journey with AFSUG. She highlighted the importance of togetherness as a unique strength within the African context.

“In Africa, success travels at the speed of connection,” Pillay stated. She called on leaders not to fall back during times of uncertainty but instead to embrace bold, visionary thinking. Reflecting on �鶹ԭ��’s recent Sapphire events in Madrid and Orlando, she emphasised the company’s AI-first and Business Suite strategies.

Pillay also introduced attendees to the evolution of Joule, �鶹ԭ��’s AI assistant, noting the roll-out of new Joule agents capable of orchestrating real-time business data across functions to drive autonomous, intelligent decision-making.

NTT DATA – building momentum through collaboration

Lauren Wortmann, vice president of applications and cloud at NTT DATA Middle East and Africa, praised �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 as a critical platform for collaboration and insight.

“As Diamond Sponsor, we valued the opportunity to engage with clients, partners and industry leaders,” she said. “The event created opportunities to strengthen both new and longstanding relationships. We’re excited about the momentum coming out of �鶹ԭ��HILA and look forward to continuing the conversations.”

NTT DATA used the platform to explore enterprise transformation and share its strategic vision for the future, cementing its leadership role in �鶹ԭ��-managed services.

Deloitte – aligning purpose with technology

As Executive Suite and C-suite Sponsor, Deloitte Africa demonstrated how purpose-driven innovation can accelerate real business outcomes. Koosh Panday, senior manager and �鶹ԭ�� project director at Deloitte and chair of �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025, reinforced the event’s role in shaping Africa’s technology journey.

“Digital transformation is not just about technology; it’s about people, collaboration and purpose,” said Panday. “That’s why �鶹ԭ��HILA is so impactful.”

Deloitte’s Executive Lounge offered an immersive space for attendees to explore solutions including �鶹ԭ�� S/4HANA, Rise with �鶹ԭ�� and the Business Technology Platform. Guests connected with Deloitte subject matter experts to explore the latest ERP trends and discuss shared challenges in a relaxed, focused setting.

From legacy to leadership: the City of Johannesburg journey

A standout session focused on the City of Johannesburg’s transformation journey, where public-private collaboration was explored in depth. Featuring a discussion between CoJ group CTO Aubrey Mochela and Sergio Maccotta, senior vice president for �鶹ԭ�� Middle East and Africa (South), the panel detailed how the CoJ migrated from �鶹ԭ�� 4.7 to S/4HANA in a bold, 21-day full shutdown.

The CoJ has been an �鶹ԭ�� customer since 2007 and recently embraced AI and cloud innovation to modernise systems and improve service delivery. National treasury has expressed support for the CoJ’s transformation, validating the project’s strategic importance.

Maccotta reflected on the urgency and complexity of the shift, citing three priorities: urgency, vision and financial clarity. The team had to implement rapid change, agree on governance principles with �鶹ԭ�� and innovate in a tightly bound timeframe.

Emerging insights and conversations

Across the event, recurring themes included legacy system modernisation, the growing importance of enterprise architecture and the power of AI to drive smarter decision-making. Joule was presented as a key enabler, reinforcing �鶹ԭ��’s position as a leader in contextual, embedded intelligence.

Delegates heard thought-provoking commentary about the future of smart cities, the importance of OEM relationships, and how technology can reshape revenue collection and operational resilience. As one speaker aptly said, “New Gen is conversations with the systems.”

A shared future

�鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 was more than a gathering; it was a collective commitment to Africa’s digital future. With support from the likes of Google, AWS, Microsoft and a strong �鶹ԭ�� delegation from Germany, the event highlighted the depth of expertise and investment in the region.

That sentiment shared by Duke Mathebula in the opening session. “We are Africans” continued to resonate long after the final session, reminding all in attendance of the unique opportunity the continent holds to lead, collaborate and transcend.

The post �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 – Transcending with Purpose, Connection and AI-powered Vision appeared first on �鶹ԭ�� Africa News Center.

The post PwC South Africa Crowned Winner of AFSUG’s First African Hackathon at �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 appeared first on �鶹ԭ�� Africa News Center.

��JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – June 2, 2025 – �鶹ԭ�� experts, partners and customers are converging this week at �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025, the flagship user conference for �鶹ԭ��’s Africa ecosystem.

, says: “Africa is a vital region for �鶹ԭ��’s vision of bringing out the best in every business. As our incredible customers, partners and experts gather at this year’s �鶹ԭ��HILA, we are excited to explore new opportunities to help organisations take advantage of the latest cloud and business AI innovations to power growth and success throughout the region.”

�鶹ԭ��HILA is the premier conference by the African �鶹ԭ�� User Group (), an independent, non-profit organisation representing �鶹ԭ��’s customers and partner communities in Africa. is held biennially in collaboration with �鶹ԭ��. The event is currently underway at the iconic Sun City Resort & Convention Centre.

Exploring AI, cloud possibilities

�鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 takes place as organisations across the continent increasingly leverage cloud and AI-powered technologies to break through traditional limits and explore new frontiers of innovation.

, Head of Global Customer Engagement & Services and Member of the Extended Board at �鶹ԭ��, notes the critical importance of a holistic approach to business transformation and cloud adoption to unlock the full value of innovations like AI. “Organisations are under pressure to stay agile and foster innovation across the entire enterprise. But this is much more than just a technology shift, it’s about capabilities, tools, and methodology to accelerate business transformation and deliver faster time to value.”

found that cloud and AI skills were the most prized among African organisations when recruiting tech talent. All companies that formed part of the Africa’s AI Skills Readiness Revealed report expected the demand for AI skills to increase this year.

, Executive Vice President and Head of Customer Support & Cloud Lifecycle Management at �鶹ԭ��, highlights how companies adopting an AI-first and suite-first strategy are revolutionising their business operations. “Organisations are unlocking smarter decision-making, seamless collaboration and innovation-fuelled growth by embedding systems of AI agents and leveraging a unified data layer enabled by �鶹ԭ�� Business Data Cloud. For our customers and partners, the journey to unlocking the power of cloud is accelerated by RISE with �鶹ԭ��, the most effective route to transforming their on-premise ERP landscape to a cloud-first model.”

Biggest gathering yet

This year’s �鶹ԭ��HILA is the biggest yet, with over a thousand delegates in attendance. In addition to keynote speeches and insightful presentations from local and global experts, there are also a range of interactive sessions, including an Ask Me Anything session, product deep dives through a personalised digital portal, and several practical sessions.

, Interim Managing Director for South Africa at �鶹ԭ��, says �鶹ԭ��HILA is the most important networking event for �鶹ԭ��’s ecosystem this year. “As our customers and partners explore new realms of possibilities with powerful business AI and cloud technologies, this year’s �鶹ԭ��HILA will provide invaluable insights and guidance on how to best take advantage of this new era of innovation. We thank AFSUG for driving this essential event in this year’s calendar and look forward to sharing our latest insights and solutions with the broader �鶹ԭ�� ecosystem.”

AFSUG CEO adds: “This year’s �鶹ԭ��HILA is an unmissable event for every company and partner that leverages �鶹ԭ��’s technologies to transform their operations and drive innovation. Thank you to our friends at �鶹ԭ�� for their support and for the incredible lineup of local and global experts sharing their invaluable learnings with our delegates.”

For more information about �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025, please visit

ENDS

Visit the �鶹ԭ�� News Center. Follow �鶹ԭ�� at .

The post �鶹ԭ�� Experts, Partners, Customers Converge in Sun City for �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 appeared first on �鶹ԭ�� Africa News Center.

In a first for the event, which is set to be AFSUG’s largest ever, the masterclasses will offer delegates high-value, expert-led sessions on both days of the conference, focusing on �鶹ԭ��’s most relevant technologies and use cases. The interactive sessions are designed to deliver practical, actionable insights and elevate the value of �鶹ԭ�� investments for attending organisations.

“Saphila is much more than just a conference – it’s a platform for transformation, and this is evident in our theme for 2025, namely ‘Transcend Beyond Boundaries’,” says��Amanda Gibbs, CEO of AFSUG.��“Our goal is to empower the �鶹ԭ�� community through shared knowledge, meaningful conversations and practical skills development.

“The new technical masterclasses reflect AFSUG’s commitment to equipping business and IT professionals with the tools and understanding they need to navigate �鶹ԭ��’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.”

The technical masterclass line-up is as follows:

Day one:����GlueData Masterclass

• ‘Bridging the Gap: Selective Data Transformation + Custom Code in Your S/4HANA Journey to a Clean Core’, to be presented by Arndt Hoffmann (smartShift); Burkhard Hergenhan (Natuvion); Samantha Matraiotti (GlueData Services); and Peter Blignaut (�鶹ԭ��).

Day two: EY Masterclasses

• ‘Achieving Improved Business Results Through Advanced Analytics and AI Solutions with �鶹ԭ�� – A Retailer’s Guide’, with speakers Martin Zloch (EY Africa); and Niragi Vasavada (EY India).
• ‘Enhancing a Human-Centric Workforce with AI’, by RV Dinakar (EY India); and Winston Sibanyoni (EY Africa).

AFSUG is also introducing another first at this year’s Saphila: a collaboration forum under the theme: ‘Empowerment through Networks and Mentorship’.

“Here we’ll see �鶹ԭ�� leaders Nadine Hoffmann and��Sarah Brunet-Cliche in discussion with AFSUG board member Corlia van Zyl from Heineken, Gontse Madumo from PG Group and��Katie Mohamed, a strategist,��author and serial entrepreneur,” Gibbs says.

Register to attend Saphila 2025 by clicking��

The post AFSUG Introduces Masterclasses, Collaboration forum at Saphila 2025 appeared first on �鶹ԭ�� Africa News Center.

A number of leading local organisations will take to the stage to share their successes, challenges and lessons learned in leveraging �鶹ԭ�� technologies at the upcoming event, which��is set��to��take place from 01 to 03 June 2025 at Sun City in South Africa’s North-West Province.

Day one of �鶹ԭ��HILA features an Executive Fireside Chat, where��, �鶹ԭ��’s SVP and GM for Middle East Africa – South, will host a panel discussion with��,��the City of Johannesburg’s��Group Chief Technology Officer, and��, Deputy Director-General: eGovernment and Chief Government Information Officer at the South African Department of Public Service and Administration.

Also on the first day of the conference��, Head of Applications, and , Chief Information Officer (CIO) of , will discuss how the pharmaceutical retail group effectively de-risked and accelerated its S/4HANA RISE transformation. In addition, , ’s �鶹ԭ�� Extended Services Manager, will highlight Aspen’s metamorphosis.

Day two of �鶹ԭ��HILA continues the customer-centric theme, with several prominent African organisations set to share their �鶹ԭ�� journeys.

• Dinesh Ramasamy of Said Salim Bakhresa & Company, the flagship company of the Bakhresa Group, will present on its experience in the deployment, consumption and adoption of �鶹ԭ�� technologies.
• Sasol’s Vice President of Supply Chain Services and Leverage Sourcing, Hendrik Steynberg, will unpack the company’s story in a session titled ‘Transforming Procurement: Sasol’s Journey to Innovation and Efficiency with �鶹ԭ�� Solutions’.
• From Mozambique, Empresa Nacional de Hidrocarbonetos (ENH) – the country’s national energy company – will share its success with �鶹ԭ�� S/4 RISE and SuccessFactors, presented by Director of Information Systems, Inácio Mateus Fumo.
• In the local transport sector, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s (PRASA) Vukile Nduli will explore how it is leveraging �鶹ԭ�� to digitise and track assets, creating a digital twin framework that enhances visibility and control.
• Further insights will be shared by Nick Jackson, CIO of the Royal Swaziland Sugar Corporation, discussing the expansion of the company’s public cloud ERP system with �鶹ԭ�� SuccessFactors.
• Dis-Chem returns to the stage with Dawid Oelofse, Supply Chain Executive, revealing how the group has implemented over 100 automated warehouse management processes.
• Tatenda Mandeya, Group IT Manager at Northern Tobacco will co-present with Carsten Friedman of �鶹ԭ�� on how IT supports sustainability in tobacco sourcing in rural Zimbabwe.
• Tiger Brands’ Ntsako Ngobeni, S&OP Capability Manager, will explain how the food and beverage giant has reimagined its planning function to enable end-to-end optimisation and improved working capital efficiency.
• Nedbank’s Justin Tobias will present with Felix Chebeli from Strafore Tech the bank’s success in test automation using Tricentis and �鶹ԭ�� Solution Manager.
• Simon Marlin, GM of IT at Toyota South Africa Motors, will walk the audience through Toyota’s S/4HANA transition.
• Ashlita Barlow, Head of Retail Technologies at the Shoprite Group, will showcase how �鶹ԭ�� Fiori and BTP are driving business��changeby improving stock availability, ensuring transaction accuracy, and reducing waste.
• Rounding out the customer stories, Regardt Wolvaardt, Solutions Architect at PG Group, will share insights on how digital supply chain planning has enabled unified operations.
• Finally, Chris Kien, Enterprise Solution Architect at Implats, will present on driving efficiency and agility through the organisation’s �鶹ԭ�� S/4HANA transformation.

The post African �鶹ԭ�� Users Showcase Real-world Innovation at �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 appeared first on �鶹ԭ�� Africa News Center.

Gibbs is the Chief Executive Officer at the African �鶹ԭ�� User Group (AFSUG) and boasts 28 years of industry experience.

In her current role, which she has held for three years, Gibbs oversees a network of �鶹ԭ�� customers and partners and helps them realise the full benefits of their �鶹ԭ�� Investments while shaping the future of �鶹ԭ�� software development.

Gibbs is a �鶹ԭ�� User Group Executive Network (SUGEN) member, a global platform for dialogue and collaboration between �鶹ԭ�� users and �鶹ԭ��.

Mathebula is the Chairman at AFSUG and is an industry expert with over 25 years of experience.

Across this quarter century, he has held multiple key roles that have given him the knowledge and skills to execute the duties of his current position.

These roles include:

• CIO at Trident Steel Africa
• Strategic Advisor to AnalyticsX
• Independent Audit and Risk Committee member for the Commission for Gender Equality
• Independent Non-Executive Director at Armscor
• Head of IT – Business Applications and Solutions Lead for Saint-Gobain Africa
• �鶹ԭ�� SD Business Analyst for RCL Floods

Mathebula holds an MBA in Corporate Finance and Strategic Information Systems from Alba Graduate Business School, as well as a BCom and BCom Honours from Rhodes University.

The interview

In this What’s Next interview, Mathebula explains what AFSUG is, noting its importance in the current �鶹ԭ�� market, and Gibbs outlines the organisation’s goals and vision for the future.

She then unpacks the upcoming �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 event, an IT conference for key decision-makers and professionals in the �鶹ԭ�� ecosystem.

Mathebula reveals which individuals outside the �鶹ԭ�� industry should attend �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025, and Gibbs explains how interested parties can register for the event.

They conclude the interview by sharing their message for anyone who has never attended a �鶹ԭ��HILA event.

Watch the interview with Amanda Gibbs and Duke Mathebula below.

Click the button below to load the content from YouTube.

Always allow YouTube

The post What’s Next — AFSUG’s Amanda Gibbs and Duke Mathebula unpack �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 appeared first on �鶹ԭ�� Africa News Center.

Set to��take place from 1 to 3 June 2025 at Sun City, the event will bring together business and technology leaders from across the continent for two days of innovation, insight and high-impact networking.

Key sponsors returning for the 2025 edition include �鶹ԭ�� Africa, Deloitte and NTT Data.

Collaboration Sponsor

�鶹ԭ�� is once again the event’s Collaboration Sponsor.

,��ad interim��MD for �鶹ԭ�� in Southern Africa, says: “Saphila is a critically important customer and partner event for �鶹ԭ��, in that it provides an unparallelled, one-stop shop for all our African customers and partners. We’d like to thank AFSUG for driving this flagship industry and networking event, suited to any customer or partner wishing to know the latest about �鶹ԭ��, its AI vision, future focus, product offerings and solutions.

“When it comes to the �鶹ԭ�� Africa events calendar, Saphila is arguably the most important networking opportunity of the year,” she adds.

Diamond Sponsor

Pillay’s sentiments are echoed by , vice-president: applications and cloud at NTT Data Middle East and Africa, Saphila 2025’s Diamond Sponsor, who��highlights the strategic value that the event brings. “Saphila is all about bringing �鶹ԭ�� users and vendors together to connect, create and collaborate. It provides a fantastic opportunity to share knowledge on the latest innovations, implementations and best practices in the �鶹ԭ�� world.

“ has taken up Diamond sponsorship of Saphila 2025 for good reason. As a global �鶹ԭ�� Managed Services partner, it gives us incredible brand visibility and allows us to showcase our expertise and thought leadership through keynotes and workshops.

“Saphila is also packed with engaging activities, including evening socials, a golf day and exclusive deal room access,��providing an excellent platform for attendees to engage with a diverse range of high-profile contacts. This kind of engagement really fosters a collaborative environment where industry leaders can discuss real-time data and business value.

“The event’s expert keynote presentations and workshops can also provide a real edge,” Wortmann adds. “Saphila 2025 is the place to be if you want to stay updated on the latest tech advancements and make valuable connections.”

Executive Suite and C-Suite sponsor

,��senior manager & �鶹ԭ�� project director: enterprise technology and performance��(ETP) at and Saphila 2025 chair, sees��the event as a catalyst for growth, skills development and innovation across the continent.

“Saphila brings significant value to both the local �鶹ԭ�� ecosystem and the broader technology industry. It promotes networking, knowledge sharing and collaboration among local �鶹ԭ�� professionals, partners and customers. It also drives innovation by showcasing the latest �鶹ԭ�� solutions and technologies, enabling attendees to stay ahead of industry trends and best practices.”

From a broader industry perspective, Panday notes the role that Saphila plays in highlighting the transformative potential of �鶹ԭ�� technologies across various sectors – driving digital transformation, improving business processes and creating value across industries, as well as facilitating cross-industry collaboration.

“As a trusted���鶹ԭ�� systems integrator and with a transformation alliance between the two businesses,��Deloitte’s sponsorship of �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 aligns with our commitment to support the local �鶹ԭ�� community and contribute to its growth and success,” Panday adds.

“At this year’s event, Deloitte will showcase how our capabilities in areas such as digital transformation, cloud solutions and data analytics can help organisations achieve their strategic goals and drive business success. We encourage people to register for Saphila 2025 as it offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into the latest �鶹ԭ�� trends and innovations, through expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops and networking opportunities.”

“Saphila represents the heartbeat of Africa’s �鶹ԭ�� community,” continues , senior associate director: ERP at Deloitte Africa. “On a broader scale, Saphila amplifies Africa’s voice in the global technology industry, highlighting how cutting-edge technologies – such as AI, cloud and sustainable ERP – are being adopted and adapted for local impact.”

Sponsor line-up

CEO comments: “We’re incredibly proud to partner with global technology leaders who share AFSUG’s vision for a more connected, digitally empowered Africa. �鶹ԭ��HILA 2025 will once again provide the ultimate platform for collaboration, learning and progress.

“In addition to extending our thanks to �鶹ԭ��, Deloitte and NTT Data, we would also like to welcome EY, Google and Syntax as Gold Sponsors; our Silver Sponsors Accenture, FIRtech, HCL Technologies, IBM, Mediro ICT, Neptune Software Africa (NASA), PwC, �鶹ԭ��, Vodacom, Deloitte and AWS, and Worksoft; and Saphila 2025’s Bronze Sponsors��Accely, AppConverge, BCX, Consnet, JiVS powered by��Data Migration International, Decision Inc, Edge Information Solutions, EPI-USE Labs, GlueData, G3G, Integrove, K5 Business, LRS Output Management, Nihilent, OneConnect, OpenText, Seidor, smartShift, Stratfore Tech, Tano Digital Solutions and VOQUZ Labs.

“Special mentions also go to our Golf Sponsor Zimele Technologies; Coffee Sponsor iOCO; Microsoft, an Executive Experience Sponsor, Said Salim Bakhresa & Company as the official Prize Sponsor, Charging Station Sponsor Engaged Business Consultants, EY and GlueData for the eagerly anticipated Masterclass sessions, as well as Heineken and Mercedes-Benz.”

Register to attend Saphila 2025 by clicking��

To become an AFSUG member, visit��.

This article first appeared on

The post Tech Leaders Back Saphila 2025 appeared first on �鶹ԭ�� Africa News Center.