Tag: Africa

  • Lehar sprints into sportswear with new Rannr shoe brand launch

    Lehar sprints into sportswear with new Rannr shoe brand launch

    MUMBAI: Lehar Footwear is lacing up for a big leap. The Jaipur-based company, best known for slippers and sandals, has announced the launch of Rannr, its new sports and athleisure footwear brand designed to blend comfort, durability and style for India’s mass and mid-market consumers.

    Backed by five manufacturing facilities in Rajasthan and Haryana, Rannr will hit the ground running with performance-driven shoes that promise everyday versatility at accessible prices. The target: young professionals, fitness buffs, students and lifestyle-conscious shoppers who want value without compromise.

    Lehar is rolling out the brand through its network of more than 520 distributors across 27 states, alongside e-commerce platforms and a new direct-to-consumer site. The company’s long-term play includes expanding into running, training and lifestyle footwear, while also scouting export opportunities in Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

    Lehar Footwear, chairman and whole-time director, Raj Kumar Agarwal said, “With Rannr, our goal is to make reliable, stylish, and performance-oriented sports shoes available to millions of consumers looking for quality at the right price. This is not just about entering a new segment but shaping the future of footwear for India’s next generation.”

    Lehar’s expansion into sports shoes comes on the heels of strong growth. The company clocked its highest-ever revenue of Rs 277.2 crore in FY25, and Rs 142.2 crore in Q1 FY26. Having recently ventured into EVA footwear with brands such as Crozi, Hilux and Bliss, Lehar now wants Rannr to be the name Indians think of when they think of affordable sportswear.

  • Truecaller makes all the right calls with solid growth in Q1 earnings

    Truecaller makes all the right calls with solid growth in Q1 earnings

    MUMBAI: If quarterly results were a missed call alert, Truecaller’s would be marked “important.” Truecaller has dialled into success once again, with its January–March 2025 quarter ending on a high note further cementing its reputation as the go-to app for caller verification and spam blocking. The company reported a 14 per cent year-on-year rise in net sales in India, with global revenues also making all the right noises.

    Worldwide net sales surged 16 per cent to 51.2 million dollars, up from 44 million dollars in Q1 2024. Meanwhile, earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA), excluding incentive costs, jumped 22 per cent to 20.4 million dollars, translating to a healthy 40 per cent margin.

    However, when incentive programme costs were factored in, EBITDA dipped slightly by 1 per cent to 15.3 million dollars. Profit after tax saw a drop from USD 13.7 million to USD 10.4 million.

    Where Truecaller truly rang loud was in user growth and business services. The platform’s active monthly users (non-iOS) grew by nearly 53 million, hitting a total of 411.9 million. Premium subscriptions surged 40 per cent, while Truecaller for Business racked up a 60 per cent jump in revenue led by strong gains in both Verified Business and Business Messaging segments.

    India remains the biggest market, clocking a 14 per cent growth, followed by the Middle East and Africa at 29 per cent, and the rest of the world at 19 per cent.

    As spam continues to plague digital communication, Truecaller appears to be not just answering the call, but leading the charge with a business model that blends user trust, tech innovation and timely monetisation.

  • Zensar Technologies reshuffles senior management in Europe & Africa

    Zensar Technologies reshuffles senior management in Europe & Africa

    MUMBAI: RPG group information tech and AI services/solutions firm, Zensar Technoloiges, has appointed two senior executives to head its operations in Africa and Europe. Kaushik Chatterjee becomes senior vice-president and head of Africa, while Anshul Srivastav takes the role of senior vice-president and head of Europe. Both appointments take effect from 1 April. Srivastav hitherto had just the sales portfolio under his belt, while Chatterjee was the global delivery head BFSI, healthcare and life sciences.

    Chatterjee brings 26 years’ experience in IT services, spanning business applications and infrastructure. His expertise lies in banking, financial services, insurance, and healthcare. Before joining Zensar, he held leadership positions at Cognizant and Citibank. Chatterjee holds a bachelor’s degree in electronics and electrical engineering, and an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta.

    Srivastav, who joined Zensar in 2015, has worked across Europe, Asia and America over his two-decade career. His previous role was at Infosys’s financial-services division. With experience in banking, insurance, consumer services and retail, he specialises in business transformation and domain consulting. Srivastav studied electronics and communication at the National Institute of Technology Jaipur before earning his management degree from the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad.

  • EY’s Bhavisha Jogi: Scaling heights with determination and grit

    EY’s Bhavisha Jogi: Scaling heights with determination and grit

    MUMBAI: Scaling peaks gives her a high like nothing else.  Bhavisha Jogi, a seasoned marketer and branding strategist, is also an intrepid mountaineer chasing a dream that only a handful dare to pursue: the “seven summits challenge”—conquering the tallest peaks on each continent. With Kilimanjaro in Africa, Elbrus in Europe, and Kosciuszko in Australia already under her belt, Bhavisha now has her sights set on the remaining four summits.

    Her latest mountaineering effort – the fourth of the seven summits – was  a bold step into uncharted territory—South America. Fuelled by a desire to push her limits, she embarked on an expedition to summit Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the southern hemisphere. As a proud Bhramshatriya woman from Gujarat, Bhavisha carried the pioneering spirit of her heritage to the base camp of Plaza de Mulas and beyond, navigating rugged terrains and unforgiving conditions.
    Mt Elnrus
    Each phase of the climb was a test of her resilience, particularly the ascent to Camp 3, which she describes as one of the most challenging moments of her life. “The journey wasn’t just about reaching higher altitudes—it was about discovering what I’m made of,” she reflects.

    But for Bhavisha, mountaineering has always been about more than just summits and accolades. It’s a deeply personal endeavour—one that has taught her invaluable lessons about persistence, humility, and the importance of knowing her limits. 

    “At this point, I’ve decided not to push myself beyond 6,000 metres anymore—not because I can’t, but because I’ve learned to honour my body and the life I want to live,” she shares. 

    This decision marks a shift in her approach to extreme mountaineering. While her passion remains undeterred, Bhavisha now focuses on balancing ambition with self-care. “Know your limits, but don’t let them define you. Push when it matters, rest when it’s wise, and always be grateful for the journey,” she advises.

    But she also confessed that her mindset could change going forward in terms of going beyond 6,000 metres. “”It was brutal – the mountain terrain as well as the winds and temperature,” she shivers, even recollecting the experience. “And that’s why I am probably feeling the way I am now. But the feelings could change.”Bhavisha Jogi

    Bhavisha’s gratitude extends to her professional mentors, including Ruchi Chawla, Mayank Rastogi, Anurag Gupta, and Vivek Soni, who supported her in taking time off to pursue her dream. And of course her husband Bipin Mundada who’s stood by her side to help her  move closer to her dream.

     “Every time I go up into the mountains, his heart is in his mouth,” she says.”But he’s always encouraging me. I communicate with him too whenever I get a wifi signal to let him know I am all right. And this time Vodafone was good in south America.” 

     Her mountaineering pursuits serve as a source of inspiration, not only for her community but also for aspiring adventurers worldwide.

    Beyond the mountains, Bhavisha’s career as a marketing leader is equally impressive. Currently serving as associate director at EY, she has a robust track record of success in brand strategy, digital marketing, and customer experience. 

    Her previous roles at Edelweiss Financial Services and ING Vysya Bank showcase her expertise in crafting impactful campaigns and managing large-scale digital initiatives.

    Yet, despite her corporate accolades, it’s the mountains that have left an indelible mark on her. “The privilege to stand amidst such grandeur and the strength to endure it have profoundly shaped me,” she says. For Bhavisha, mountaineering is as much about inner growth as it is about physical achievement.

    As she continues her pursuit of the Seven Summits, Bhavisha remains a beacon of perseverance and inspiration. Her journey is a testament to the power of dreams, the courage to explore, and the wisdom to reflect. “In the end, the summit within is what matters most,” she concludes.

    With four summits down and four to go, Bhavisha’s story is far from over. Whether scaling towering peaks or leading transformative marketing campaigns, she is proof that determination and balance can lead to extraordinary heights—both literally and figuratively.

  • Eros Now expands digital footprint in Africa

    Eros Now expands digital footprint in Africa

    Mumbai: Eros Now, the video streaming service owned by Eros STX Global Corp, on Friday announced the partnership with Digital Media 333 (DM 333), an African OTT entertainment platform.

    With this association, Eros Now’s premium Bollywood content line up with new and classic Bollywood films, originals, exclusive online premiers, and more wide-ranging content in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Punjabi, Gujarati languages will be available with English subtitles for audiences in African countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, DRC, Mozambique, and Tanzania.

    DM 333 will be offering seamless entertainment through the recently launched AVVATTA, a complete digital mobile entertainment experience.

    “As a leading global premium SVOD platform, it is our constant endeavour to deliver entertainment to audiences worldwide,” said Eros Now, CEO, Ali Hussein. “Indian content has been receiving greater interest globally and Africa remains one of the most significant markets for players offering the best of Indian entertainment. The partnership enables Eros Now to build a deeper connect in African countries and cater to their growing demand for online streaming.”

    As per the Digital TV Research report, the African OTT market is set for an explosion over the coming years, with the market set to reach $1.7 billion by 2026. SVOD services will continue to make up the bulk of the market. 

    “With the growing Indian content consuming population in the African region, this association will further strengthen and satiate the demand for Indian entertainment content amongst its viewers and expand Eros Now’s reach in international markets,” the platform said in a statement.

    “African people are constantly looking for premium entertainment experience and are in love with Indian content. I spotted this gap and realised it is the right time to offer premium content to South Africans at an affordable subscription,” said DM 333, founder, Surie Ramasary.

  • Bharti Airtel gets regulatory nod to buy Millicom’s Rwanda ops

    Bharti Airtel gets regulatory nod to buy Millicom’s Rwanda ops

    MUMBAI: Telecommunications behemoth Bharti Airtel Ltd (Airtel) has received approval for the acquisition of Tigo Rwanda Ltd (Tigo Rwanda), a subsidiary of Millicom International Cellular SA (Millicom), from the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA).

    According to Airtel’s release to the Bombay Stock Exchange, the  merged  entity  will  have  the  largest  customer  base  in  Rwanda  with  5.9  million subscribers.  The combined networks of the two companies will serve customers with voice/data services, global roaming and mobile banking services. It will also have Rwanda’s largest sales and distribution network.

    “The merger will result in the only negative ebitda opco [operating company] joining other 13 positive ebitda opcos in Africa,” the release stated.

    On completion, the acquisition is expected to strengthen Airtel’s market position in Rwanda.

    With presence in 14 countries across Africa, Airtel is one of the largest telecom service providers on the continent in terms of geographical reach, and had close to 84 million customers at the end of quarter ended December 30, 2017.

    Also Read:

    Airtel Digital TV revenue, PAT and EBITDA up in Q3 2018

    Airtel to transfer 25% stake in DTH arm to Nettle

    Eros Digital ropes in former Google exec Ali Hussein as COO

  • GRB takes docu-series & crime stories to Africa

    MUMBAI: GRB Entertainment has announced a slate of docu-series, documentaries and crime program sales in Africa to MNET and ETV.

    MNET acquired several docu-series including two seasons of the long-running series Braxton Family Values which features the rambunctious, tight-knit Braxton sisters — Grammy-winning artist Toni Braxton, her four sisters and their headstrong mother for an inside look at their lives. ­Cleveland Hustles follows basketball legend LeBron James and friend Maverick Carter as they give four aspiring local entrepreneurs the chance to realize their dreams while also revitalizing neighborhoods in their hometown of Cleveland. Flex and Shanice takes a look at the lives of 90’s pop singer Shanice and her husband, actor Flex Alexander and their extended family all living together under one roof as they strive to get back on their feet financially. Raising Whitley follows comedian Kym Whitley and her hilarious group of friends – whom she calls “The Village” – as they attempt to do something none of them have ever done before: raise a baby…together.

    MNET also picked up Black In America, a collection of 8 documentaries exploring race and identity for African Americans as it pertains to education, business, community life, and even families.

    ETV also acquired two seasons of Braxton Family Values along with successful spin-off series Tamar & Vince following rising musical superstar Tamar Braxton and her music-mogul husband, Vince Herbert, as they balance their careers with their personal lives. ETV took the full series, seven seasons, of long-running investigative crime series On The Case, exploring murder mysteries through in-depth interviews with witnesses and suspects while examining the forensic evidence that helped to unravel the mystery.

    “As the television market in Africa continues to grow, GRB is thrilled to be working with MNET and ETV. Our documentaries, entertaining reality series and real-life investigative crime series have captured audiences around the world, and we are very excited to bring these titles to Africa,” said GRB Entertainment SVP – international distribution Michael Lolato.

  • NDTV 24×7 available on StarTimes in Africa

    NDTV 24×7 available on StarTimes in Africa

    NEW DELHI: Expanding its presence in the African region, NDTV’s flagship English news channel NDTV 24×7 is now also available on leading African pay TV operator Star Times.

    NDTV head – network distribution & affiliate sales Rahul Sood said: “NDTV 24×7 was the first Indian news channel to launch on DStv, and we are pleased to now also join hands with Star Times to serve their subscribers with our award winning news coverage from the best journalists and News production team in India.” “This is in addition to many cable operators who also carry our channels in their countries like Nigeria and Tanzania,” he added.

    StarTimes vice-president and managing director of media division Michael Dearham said: “We are very pleased to welcome NDTV 24×7 in our platform, reflecting the ambition of Star Times to always offer more diversified high quality content.”

    The platform carries over 440 TV channels, including quality international third party channels, most popular African local channels and StarTimes owned-and-operated channels. The platform also offers all genres of content, ranging from news, movies, sports, entertainment, kids programs, music, life style and religion. The channels are broadcast in 10 different languages, such as English, French, Portuguese, Africa local languages and Chinese.

  • NDTV 24×7 available on StarTimes in Africa

    NDTV 24×7 available on StarTimes in Africa

    NEW DELHI: Expanding its presence in the African region, NDTV’s flagship English news channel NDTV 24×7 is now also available on leading African pay TV operator Star Times.

    NDTV head – network distribution & affiliate sales Rahul Sood said: “NDTV 24×7 was the first Indian news channel to launch on DStv, and we are pleased to now also join hands with Star Times to serve their subscribers with our award winning news coverage from the best journalists and News production team in India.” “This is in addition to many cable operators who also carry our channels in their countries like Nigeria and Tanzania,” he added.

    StarTimes vice-president and managing director of media division Michael Dearham said: “We are very pleased to welcome NDTV 24×7 in our platform, reflecting the ambition of Star Times to always offer more diversified high quality content.”

    The platform carries over 440 TV channels, including quality international third party channels, most popular African local channels and StarTimes owned-and-operated channels. The platform also offers all genres of content, ranging from news, movies, sports, entertainment, kids programs, music, life style and religion. The channels are broadcast in 10 different languages, such as English, French, Portuguese, Africa local languages and Chinese.

  • India: 40 per cent smartphone users stream live videos; leads in new subs

    India: 40 per cent smartphone users stream live videos; leads in new subs

    MUMBAI: There is a rise of 5G networks and consumers subscribing to the network. By 2022, there will be a growth in mobile broadband to 6.1 billion unique subscribers. Forecasting the trends in telecom sector across the world, Ericsson Mobility Report has pointed out that approximately half a billion users will be connected to 5G networks by 2022.

    North America (NA) will dominate the industry with nearly 25 per cent of 5G subscriptions in 2022. Asia Pacific will fall next with about 10 per cent of the share.

    The Middle East and Africa will shift from predominantly GSM/EDGE only to approximately 80 percent of users being connected to WCDMA/HSPA and LTE. The report further points out that the mobile subscriber base is estimated to scale 6.8 billion with over 95 per cent people being connected to 4G or 5G networks.

    Ericsson chief strategy officer and technology officer Ulf Ewaldsson opined that almost 90 per cent of smartphone subscriptions are on 3G and 4G networks today, and standardised 5G networks are expected to be available in 2020. He further added that 5G would help automation, IoT and big data.

    The world added 84 million new mobile subscriptions during the third quarter of 2016 with India leading regarding net additions with 15 million, with China closely following with 14 million new mobile subscribers.

    The report points out that the mobile video traffic will grow 50 per cent every year through 2022, accounting for about 75 per cent of all the mobile data traffic. Social media traffic will be the second type of traffic that will dominate the mobile traffic growing 39 per cent each year.

    As for as live streaming is concerned, two in every five smartphone users are interested in live streaming apps in India and other high-growth countries like Brazil, Indonesia and Oman. The reports suggest that the figure dropping to one in every five smartphone users in the United States of America.

    Along with 5G and Mobile Broadband, IoT will also see significant growth, with approximately 29 billion devices connected to the internet, out of which 18 billion of the devices relating to IoT.