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ERA NEWS:
YOUR WINDOW INTO AFRICA'S PROGRESS
Anticipation for the 2025 Drakensberg Inclusive Growth Forum
Article: Sithembile Masia
Last November, I had the privilege of attending the Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation’s Drakensberg Inclusive Growth Forum for the very first time.
Against the backdrop of the Drakensberg Mountains, it was more than just a gathering of leaders — it was an honest exchange of ideas, heartfelt appeals, and bold proposals for Africa’s future.
I still recall the power of those conversations: from Mncebisi Jonas urging us to let go of tired politics and build inclusive institutions, to Dr Aaron Motsoaledi defending the NHI as a fight against profiteering, to Faisal Mkhize reminding us never to leave the poor behind in our growth journey.
It was striking how openly speakers laid their hearts bare, grappling with inequality and daring to imagine systems that could grow us all.
The calibre of voices — from ministers and ambassadors to corporate leaders, youth representatives, and academics — gave weight to every discussion. Breakaway sessions ensured it wasn’t only a stage for speeches, but a platform for collective problem-solving.
For me, the Forum underscored the urgent need for South Africa, and indeed Africa, to anchor itself in a clear vision for inclusive growth.
As we look toward November 2025, anticipation is high. Last year set the bar with its honesty, diversity, and sheer quality of engagement. My hope is that this year’s event builds on that momentum, offering not just dialogue, but pathways to action.
And as always, I trust the advertisers, sponsors, and partners are preparing another show-stopper — one that will once again remind us that Africa’s story is still being written, and that together, we can script a future of shared prosperity.
I look forward, with great expectation, to what this year’s Drakensberg Inclusive Growth Forum will bring.
Celebrating Genius: ERA’s Creative Partnership with the African Genius Awards
By the ERA Newsroom Team
Eight Red Apples (ERA) is proud to have played a key role in amplifying one of the continent’s most inspiring initiatives — the African Genius Awards (AGA), a project by Plus 94 Research.
The African Genius Awards celebrate innovation, intellect, and leadership across Africa, recognising individuals whose work is shaping the continent’s progress.
This year, ERA had the honour of leading the communications and brand exposure campaign, ensuring that the brilliance of African minds reached audiences far and wide.
Through strategic storytelling and targeted media placements, ERA successfully positioned the Awards in major African markets including Nigeria, Togo, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Ghana — extending AGA’s reach and reputation across linguistic and regional borders.
The campaign not only amplified awareness of African excellence but also deepened the narrative around Africa’s intellectual potential. From digital features to country-level media coverage, the response was overwhelmingly positive, with new audiences engaging with the message that genius lives and thrives in Africa.
As we look back on this milestone, we celebrate both the success of the African Genius Awards and the collaborative spirit that made it possible. This partnership reflects ERA’s commitment to telling Africa’s growth stories — stories that inspire, unite, and redefine the global perception of our continent.
At Eight Red Apples, we believe that every act of genius deserves a spotlight — and we’re proud to be the platform that helps shine it.
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UNSUNG HEROES
In New Eersterus, Matilda Phala — lovingly called the Mother Theresa of her community — founded the Lesedi Self Help Association in Hammanskraal, a safe haven for children with disabilities. Her centre offers love, care, and education to children once forgotten. Support Lesedi and help keep this light of hope shining. Reach out to lesediselfhelpassociation@gmail.com