This month’ s cover story, which can be found on page 14, features Dmitriy Anderson, Chief Information Officer and Head of E-commerce and Marketplace Strategy. He tells us how Leroy Merlin South Africa has launched a purpose-built, mobile-first app designed to transform DIY and home improvement shopping for the local market.

Anderson explains that the app goes far beyond a resized website, combining low-connectivity optimisation, in-app self-checkout and real-time stock visibility to remove friction from the shopping journey. Multilingual search across five South African languages and offline functionality ensure the experience is inclusive, accessible and reliable, even in areas with limited connectivity.

Marketplace integration plays a central role, giving customers access to thousands of products from more than 500 sellers while encouraging competitive pricing and broader choice. The app also supports projectbased planning through smart shopping lists, barcode scanning, order tracking and loyalty features, helping both professionals and first-time homeowners stay in control.

Looking ahead, Anderson outlines plans to introduce an AI Shopping Copilot, integrated services such as installation and repairs, and in-store navigation to further blend digital and physical retail. Together, these innovations support Leroy Merlin’ s wider vision of making home improvement more accessible, intuitive and empowering for South Africans wherever they are.

Elsewhere, we learn how Next-generation LEO satellite constellations are transforming connectivity across Africa, bringing high-speed, reliable communications to remote and conflict-affected regions where terrestrial networks are limited or unavailable.

Gwenael Loheac of IEC Telecom explains how technologies such as Starlink are reshaping humanitarian operations by enabling real-time coordination, cloud access and digital tools even during outages or emergencies.

By dramatically reducing costs, deployment time and technical complexity, LEO satellites are making advanced connectivity accessible to NGOs of all sizes, not just large international agencies.

IEC Telecom supports this shift with tailored Starlinkbased solutions, bandwidth optimisation platforms and autonomous communications hubs that improve resilience while keeping costs under control.

Beyond emergency response, satellite connectivity is laying the foundations for long-term digital inclusion, supporting education, healthcare, governance and economic participation across Africa’ s most isolated communities.

You can read more starting on page 24.

Don’ t forget, you can stay informed with daily news updates on our website, where we bring you the latest insights and developments from the world of business technology. I’ d like to wish you a productive and successful month ahead. Please enjoy this issue and take your time to explore the articles we have prepared for you. See you next time.

Mark Bowen Editorial Director

www. intelligentcio. com INTELLIGENTCIO AFRICA 3