Intelligent CIO Africa Issue 84 | Page 15

NEWS

Xion Global partners with Giesecke + Devrient to introduce secure financial systems into Africa

Aeryn Quarmby

Xion Global uses technology from Giesecke + Devrient , G + D for an innovative holistic financial solution . By combining it ’ s web3 multi-chain payments infrastructure and G + D ’ s CBDC solution Filia for interbank deposit token transfer , Xion is creating a seamless financial ecosystem . Xion will provide customised solutions for Africa .

Xion Global is a multi-chain web3 payments provider , offering a suite of APIs and infrastructure to accept , send , and reward payments globally . Recognised as Africa ’ s
web3 payments provider , Xion is primed for expansion , targeting collaboration with prominent network , payment and financial service providers with extensive user networks .
Leveraging the infrastructures of both companies , this solution enables instant transactions across a variety of blockchain networks and traditional financial channels .
Designed for seamless integration with existing financial platforms , the solution offers scalability and customisation to meet the nuanced needs of financial service providers . It optimises their operational efficiency , enhances the user experience and ensures the protection of sensitive financial data through multiple layers of security protocols .
The initiative of Xion targets Africa and is particularly geared towards meeting the financial needs of both individual and institutional clients . Pilot programmes are under active development to deliver inclusive , efficient , and secure financial services that address the unique characteristics of these diverse markets .
The future roadmap also includes the integration of offline payment capabilities . This feature will facilitate transactions using deposit tokens and smart cards without the necessity for internet connectivity , thereby democratising access to financial services .
“ In the fast-paced landscape of digital transformation , Xion Global and G + D are at the forefront of a financial paradigm shift ,” explains Aeryn Quarmby , COO at Xion Global . “ Our approach aims to combine the robustness of traditional financial systems with cutting-edge fintech solutions , targeting a range of financial service providers and stakeholders across diverse markets .”

WIOCC Group , MDCS Skills Academy partner to deliver ICT skills in South Africa

WIOCC Group , Africa ’ s open-access digital infrastructure provider , is helping underprivileged learners , particularly unemployed females and disabled learners in parts of South Africa , gain ICT skills that will help boost their employability through a partnership with MDCS Skills Academy .

By establishing a mobile ICT lab equipped with 20 laptops , this partnership is targeted to reach those in most need , particularly in rural primary and secondary schools . It also enables the ICT resources and equipment to be utilised by more than one school , so more learners in need can gain these basic skills , and will not be affected by the same crime issues which would be experienced by ICT labs permanently situated in the community .
According to James Wekesa , Group Chief Commercial Officer at WIOCC Group , “ Through the support of our South Africa office to MDCS Skills Academy , we are
James Wekesa
giving underprivileged learners in the Potchefstroom area of North West Province and in Rietfontein , Gauteng , valuable access to ICT facilities and training . This builds their ICT skills , helps prepare them for working in the ICT sector , and also provides access to computers for underprivileged learners who currently lack this essential resource .”
Winnie Karisa , HR Director at WIOCC Group , added : “ The goal is for learners to improve their results in school through the use of ICT resources . Ultimately , both their improved marks and increased computer skills will afford these learners access to better job opportunities .”
There is also an accredited , two-year bursary programme which focuses upon ICT and management and has already demonstrated positive results .
Karisa explains : “ Three-quarters of those who have attended the programme have achieved success in some form , either through obtaining full-time employment , being made facilitators , being sponsored for further training , or have received additional study opportunities .” p
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