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Ecco Chamber

Fortnightly Italian news made in South Africa

II edition October 2026

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Join Us for the "Growth, Rates & the Road Ahead"

Can South Africa break out of low growth?
What can monetary policy actually achieve—and what are its limits?

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Join us on 29 October for an exclusive evening featuring a keynote address by Lesetja Kganyago, Governor of the South African Reserve Bank. He will share key insights into South Africa's macro-economic outlook and the role of monetary policy in driving sustainable growth.

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Lesetja Kganyago has served as Governor of the South African Reserve Bank since November 2014, having recently been reappointed for a third five-year term running through to 2029. With extensive experience in central banking and international finance, he chairs the SARB Monetary Policy Committee and holds key international leadership roles with the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), SADC central banks, and the Financial Stability Board.
He previously chaired the IMF’s International Monetary and Financial Committee and holds an MSc in Economics from SOAS University of London.

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Event Details:

Date & Time: 29 October, starting from 18:30

Venue: Italian Sporting Club Johannesburg (Poolhouse)
Pricing: R750 per person + VAT (Includes a full 3-course meal)

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This event is hosted in collaboration with the Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries, the Italian Sporting Club, and Settebello.

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Reserve your seat today to take part in this vital economic discussion and network with key industry leaders.​

Save the Date
European Chambers'
6th Annual Golf Day 2026

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SAVE THE DATE | EUROPEAN CHAMBERS' 6TH ANNUAL GOLF DAY 2026

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The Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries is proud to once again join fellow European Chambers of Commerce for the 6th Annual European Chambers' Golf Day, taking place on 20 October 2026 at Randpark Golf Club, Johannesburg.

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This flagship event brings together business leaders and professionals for a day of networking, collaboration and friendly competition, celebrating the strength of the European business community in South Africa.

The Save the Date and 2026 Sponsorship Brochure are now available, offering companies the opportunity to showcase their brand and connect with a high-profile business audience.​

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Date: 20 October 2026

Venue: Randpark Golf Club, Johannesburg​​

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 Contact Patricia for more information:

📧 accounts@italcham.co.za​

A taste of Italy-
Pasta making experience

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A TASTE OF ITALY: PASTA-MAKING EXPERIENCE

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In celebration of World Pasta Day (25 October), Italy in Town is bringing a little taste of Italian tradition to Cape Town with a special Pasta-Making Class in collaboration with Italian Deli Online.

Join us on Saturday, 31 October at Makers Landing for a hands-on pasta-making experience where you’ll learn how to make your own pasta from scratch, enjoy good food, meet new people and, of course, embrace the Italian way of doing things — mangia, parla e divertiti!

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Choose from one of two sessions:

🍝 12:00 – 15:00
🍝 17:00 – 20:00

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And the experience doesn’t end when the pasta is made. For our 17:00 – 20:00 session, guests will have the opportunity to sit down, enjoy their freshly made pasta and stay on at the venue to relax and network with fellow pasta lovers.

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Your ticket includes:
✨ A hands-on pasta-making class
🥂 A complimentary drink
🎁 An Italian-inspired goodie bag from Italian Deli Online
🛍️ A R500.00 voucher for Italian Deli Online
🍝 Your very own homemade pasta to enjoy

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📍 Makers Landing
The Cruise Terminal, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001

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Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast, an Italian food lover, or simply looking for a fun afternoon or evening with good people and great food — come roll, shape, cook and enjoy pasta the Italian way.

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Spaces are very limited, so don’t miss your chance to join us!

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Tickets are available online now.

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Coffee Rave | Italy in Town Pre-Activation

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Wake up the Italian way.

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Before Italy in Town comes to life at the Castle of Good Hope, we’re bringing a taste of Italian coffee culture to The Old Biscuit Mill.

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In collaboration with La Marzocco and Lavazza, join us for a morning where expertly crafted espresso, fresh pastries, beautiful machines and feel-good music come together. The Coffee Rave is your invitation to start the day with great coffee, good energy and a little taste of Italy.

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Your R150 ticket includes a complimentary Lavazza coffee and fresh pastry. 

Come for the coffee. Stay for the atmosphere. Leave ready for Italy in Town.

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3 November 2026
07:30 – 09:30

La Marzocco Space | The Old Biscuit Mill, Woodstock

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Because the best Italian mornings always begin with coffee.

Call for Vendors:
Italy in Town 2026

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Italy in Town is back! and this year, we’re taking it to an iconic new level!
📍 New Venue: Castle of Good Hope, Cape Town
📅 Dates: 21–22 November 2026

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We are seeking authentic Italian brands and products to be part of a vibrant weekend celebrating the very best of Italy — from traditional cuisine and artisanal goods to fashion, design, and lifestyle.

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This is a unique opportunity to showcase genuine Italian excellence, connect with a diverse and engaged audience, and position your brand within one of Cape Town’s most anticipated cultural events.

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If your offering reflects true Italian heritage, quality, and craftsmanship, we would love to hear from you.

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Join us in bringing Italy to life in Cape Town.

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For official updates and all the latest news around
the Italy in Town Festival, be sure to visit our
Italy in Town Facebook and Instagram pages,
by clicking the icons above
. 

Tickets Sales
Italy in Town 2026

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This year, Italy in Town moves to the iconic Castle of Good Hope, transforming one of Cape Town’s most historic landmarks into a vibrant Italian festa for two unforgettable days.Stroll along the cobblestone streets infused with the aromas of fresh espresso and wood-fired pizza. Delight yourselves in live Italian music, and savour the timeless allure of festa Italiana.

 

Join us on 21 & 22 November 2026 and experience the sights, sounds, flavours and traditions of Italy — right here in the heart of Cape Town.

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Saturday, 21 November 2026 

10:00 to 22:00 

 

Sunday, 22 November 2026

10:00 to 17:00

Concerto di Primavera

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Concerto di Primavera – Celebrate Spring with Italian Music & Culture

The Italian South African community is warmly invited to Concerto di Primavera, an evening dedicated to Italian music, culture and the arrival of spring.

Taking place on Saturday, 17 October 2026 at 18:00 at the Italian Sporting Club, the concert will feature an enchanting performance by Silvia Di Falco – Soprano, accompanied by Cristina Gianino – Pianist.

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The evening will offer guests the opportunity to experience the beauty and tradition of Italian music in a vibrant community setting, celebrating the cultural connection between Italy and South Africa.

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📍 Italian Sporting Club
📅 Saturday, 17 October 2026
🕕 18:00
🎟️ Tickets: R100

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Join us and celebrate spring through the timeless beauty of Italian music and culture!

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For enquiries and tickets, please contact:

Nicky: 083 253 6003 or Salvo: 082 446 9447.

Festival Italiano
Organised by the Consulate General of Italy in Johannesburg

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Celebrate Italian culture, traditions and creativity in South Africa during the Festival Italiano

From authentic Italian food and cultural experiences to live music, cinema, theatre and dance, the Festival brings together a diverse programme celebrating the many expressions of Italian heritage and contemporary culture.

 

Discover Italy through its flavours, stories, sounds and traditions, and join us for a vibrant programme designed to bring Italy to life in South Africa.

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From 21 to 24 October, in celebration of the Week of the Italian Language in the World, three vibrant evenings were organised by the Consulate General of Italy in Johannesburg at the Italian Club of Johannesburg, bringing together music, dance and Italian culture: a classic Opera concert with the Sicilian Duo, Cristina Gianino and Silvia Di Falco; a contemporary jazz tribute to Mina and Ornella Vanoni – Voci di Donne and a jazz/contemporary concert with Francesca Biancoli, Nicholas Williams, Carlo Mombelli and Jonathan Sweetman on 21 October; performances by Christine & Paul Gioia and Terraross on 23 October; and the spectacular Cinderella Tarantella featuring Joburg Ballet and Terraross on 24 October.

Recap:
Exclusive Invitation at the Museum Della Passion with Roxsure Insurance Brokers

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A Celebration of Italian Motoring, Craftsmanship & Connection

On Saturday, 3 October, ItalCham members enjoyed an exclusive afternoon celebrating the passion, craftsmanship and culture of Italian motoring at the Museum Della Passione in Somerset.

Hosted by Roxsure Insurance Brokers, in collaboration with the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce, the afternoon brought together members and guests for a relaxed and memorable networking experience.

The programme included a private guided tour of the Museum Della Passione, offering guests an opportunity to admire an impressive collection of Italian automotive treasures and discover the stories behind these iconic vehicles.

The experience continued with delicious bites from No Way Jose and exceptional craft beer from Abru Brewery, creating the perfect setting for meaningful conversations and new connections.

Beyond the cars, the afternoon was a wonderful reminder of the value of bringing our business communities together through shared interests, culture and good company.

A sincere thank you to Roxsure Insurance Brokers, the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce, Museum Della Passione, No Way Jose and Abru Brewery for making this special afternoon possible — and to all our members who joined us.

Italian motoring, great food, craft beer and even better company.

ItalCham's Annual Directory
2026/2027

The wait is over! ItalCham's Annual Directory 2026/2027 is here!

Your ultimate guide to businesses, leaders, and opportunities shaping

Italian–South African trade. Packed with valuable insights, this edition opens doors to new partnerships and growth.

 

Stay ahead, stay connected, and discover who’s who in our thriving

business community.

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ItalCham
Business Excellence Awards
Call for Nominations 2027

Following the success of the 2026 ItalCham Business Excellence Awards, we are pleased to open the first round of nominations for the 2027 edition.

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The Business Excellence Awards (BEAs) continue to honour individuals and enterprises who embody excellence, innovation, and leadership within the Italian-South African business community.

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At this stage, we are gathering early nominations and suggestions for professionals or companies you believe should be considered for recognition next year. This is a preliminary step to help us identify outstanding candidates.

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As in previous years, all nominations received will be carefully reviewed by a professional and independent panel.

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To submit a nomination, please complete the form by clicking the button below.

ECOMONDO 2026
Hosted Buyers Programme

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Join the Italian-South African Chamber’s hosted delegation to ECOMONDO 2026, Europe’s benchmark event for the green, blue and circular economy, organized by IEG – Italian Exhibition Group. Following the success of our 2023, 2024, and 2025 missions, we are now recruiting 10 South African companies to visit this premier international exhibition.

Here's what ECOMONDO 2025 looked like:

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*1,850 exhibitors

*International operators from more than 122 countries

*750 international hosted buyers and delegates

*Over 240 conferences and workshops

 

​Why Join?

ECOMONDO 2026 will showcase a renewed and expanded format with 6 thematic areas and 6 exhibition districts, covering the full spectrum of environmental technologies and green innovation:

 

Waste as Resource

Water Cycle and Blue Economy

Bioenergy and Agriculture

Circular and Regenerative Bio-Economy

Site & Soil Restoration

Environmental Monitoring & Earth Observation

 

ECOMONDO is the leading platform to meet key players in the green and circular economy and discover the latest sustainable technologies and solutions. The 2026 edition will focus on today’s most urgent environmental challenges, bringing together innovation, business opportunities, and expert insights through a rich exhibition and a high-level conference programme.

Buyers Programme - What’s Included: 

Selected companies will receive the following benefits: 

• 3-night hotel accommodation (B&B treatment, 4-star hotel) for 1 buyer per company 

• Cash reimbursement of maximum € 300,00 as partial coverage of the flight ticket for 1 buyer per company 

• Transfers Bologna Airport – Hotel / Hotel – Bologna Airport 

• Daily transfer from the hotel to the expo venue, and back 

• Free entrance ticket 

• Lunch at the exhibition centre 

 

Buyers will have to undertake: 

• To schedule at least 10 B2B meetings with Ecomondo exhibitors using the online “My Agenda by IEG” platform. These 30-minute meetings will take place on 05 November 2026. If the quota is not met in advance, additional appointments must be arranged directly at the expo; 

• To submit the appointment diary, duly completed and signed by all exhibitors met; 

• To complete an online satisfaction survey at the end of the meetings; 

• To return to the exhibition on November 7 to explore additional companies of interest. 

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Apply by 31 August 2026 

Limited spots available – applications will close as soon as the delegation reaches full capacity.

Eligibility Criteria 

- The company representative who will attend Ecomondo must be a decision maker.

- All companies with a turnover of at least ZAR 20.000.000 or with concrete projects in progress or in the start-up phase can apply. The project must be well explained in the dedicated section of the application form. 

 

For more information: 
📧 italy@italcham.co.za 
📞 Cell: +27 83 325 7804 | WhatsApp: +27 83 325 7804

ECOMONDO 2026
in Collaboration with Premier Industry Partners

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This year ItalCham is proud to collaborate with premier industry partners for ECOMONDO 2026, Europe’s leading international benchmark for ecological transition, the circular economy, and green technologies.

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To offer an even richer and more strategic networking opportunity, this year we are proud to we are proud to collaborate with the following industry partners:

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  • GreenCape: A leading organization driving the growth of the green economy in South Africa, supporting businesses in adopting sustainable solutions and unlocking green investments.

  • Southern African Biogas Industry Association (SABIA): The cornerstone association dedicated to advancing the biogas sector and bio-energy technologies across Southern Africa.

  • Metal Recyclers Association of South Africa (MRA): The national body promoting best practices, resource efficiency, and sustainable innovation within the metal recycling industry.

Why Participate in ECOMONDO 2026?

Joining ECOMONDO puts your business at the forefront of the global sustainability transformation. It is an unmissable platform to:

  • Explore Cutting-Edge Innovation: Gain direct access to groundbreaking developments in waste management, renewable energy, resource recovery, and ecosystem restoration.

  • Expand Your Global Network: Connect with international buyers, industry leaders, investors, and key institutional figures to build high-impact commercial partnerships.

  • Access Industry Expertise: Attend world-class conferences and panel discussions to stay ahead of market trends, environmental policies, and sustainable business models.

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Join us and our strategic partners as we lead the charge toward a more sustainable and integrated industrial future.

​SIGEP World 2027
Hosted Buyers Programme

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Join the Italian-South African Chamber’s hosted delegation to SIGEP WORLD 2027, the leading international event for the Foodservice Community, uniting top professionals from the worlds of Gelato, Pastry & Choco, Coffee, Bakery and

Pizza. This high-energy exhibition offers a unique insight into the industry's future, showcasing ground-breaking innovations, emerging trends and new consumer experiences.

 

From ingredients and products to equipment, furnishings, packaging and cutting-edge technologies, SIGEP is the ultimate platform for networking and discovering top-tier business opportunities. Every encounter is a gateway to evolve, innovate and drive your business forward!

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Here's what SIGEP World 2026 looked like:

  • 1,400 exhibiting brands

  • 30 halls and 138,000 square meters of exhibition space

  • 502 hosted top buyers from 74 countries

  • More than 5,500 meetings

 

Why Join?

SIGEP World offers direct access to the latest innovations and trends shaping the global out-of-home foodservice industry. The event is a high-value networking opportunity across 5 different sectors:

 

The 2027 edition will combine business opportunities, expert insights and professional development through direct interaction with companies and specialists across the entire out-of-home sector.

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Buyers Programme - What’s Included:

Selected companies will receive the following benefits:

  • 4-night hotel accommodation (B&B treatment) for 1 representative per company*

  • Cash reimbursement of maximum € 300,00 as partial coverage of the flight ticket for 1 representative per company

  • Transfers Bologna Airport – Hotel / Hotel – Bologna Airport

  • Daily transfer from the hotel to the expo venue, and back

  • Interpreter (only if the buyer does not speak Italian or English fluently)

  • Free entrance ticket and lunch at the exhibition centre

 

Applicants will have to undertake:

  • To schedule at least 10 B2B meetings with SIGEP exhibitors using the online “My Agenda by IEG” platform. 

  • Complete their buyer profile accurately through the official registration platform.

  • Attend all confirmed meetings and programme activities.

  • Complete the post-event satisfaction survey.

  • Take advantage of the exhibition to explore additional business opportunities beyond scheduled appointments.

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Apply by 25 October 2026

Space is limited - the registration period will close early if the delegation reaches its maximum number of participants.

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The company representative who will attend SIGEP must be a decision maker.

 

For more information:

Anna-Maria Adreani
📧 enquiries@italcham.co.za
📞 Cell: +27 82 862 4884
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​​Take Your Brand to Europe

at Zoomark 2027

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Recognised as Europe’s leading B2B platform for pet food and pet care, Zoomark 2027 brings together innovation, international buyers and key industry players under one roof.

 

With over 30,800 visitors and 1,260 exhibitors (2025 edition), Zoomark continues to expand its global reach — offering direct access to the European and international pet market.

 

Why exhibit?

✔ Access the European & global market

✔ Connect with decision-makers actively sourcing new products and partnerships

✔ Meet top global buyers through tailored matchmaking

 

Early Bird exhibition rates are available until 30 June 2026.

 

Discover how to participate and access full details below.

13th EDITION
“CEO Dialogue on Southern Africa”,

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We are pleased to invite you to attend the 13th "TEHA CEO Dialogue on Southern Africa" which will take place on November 12-13 at the Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch in Johannesburg. 

 

The mission is to:

  • build an exclusive and influential community of leaders, for growing their enterprises, their countries and their continent

Over the years, the Summit has established itself as the landmark annual event for international and regional public and private stakeholders, aimed at strengthening strategic relationships, fostering in-depth interaction among peers, and promoting business opportunities in South Africa and across the SADC region.

The initiative, by invitation only, brings together more than 200 CEOs, economists, high-level institutional representatives, and business leaders from across Sub-Saharan Africa, Italy and Europe, the USA, and the Middle East, with extensive coverage from leading media outlets such as Bloomberg, CNN, CNBC, eNCA and SABC News.

Please find the Save the Date here with more details about this year's key topics. To discover more about the spirit and impact of the Summit, we invite you to take a look at the highlights from previous editions and explore some of the key moments, discussions, and connections that have shaped past sessions.

A Cocktail Reception will be held on Wednesday, November 11, at the Residence of the Italian Ambassador to South Africa, followed by a Gala Dinner on the evening of Thursday, November 12.

Among the confirmed speakers as of today, we are pleased to mention: 

  • Sthembiso Dlamini (Group Chief Executive Officer, GGDA)

  • Valerio De Molli (Managing Partner and CEO, TEHA)

  • Sandile Dube (Managing Director South Africa, Equinix)

  • Michelle Gavin (Senior Fellow for Africa Studies, Council on Foreign Relations)

  • Johannes Gawaxab (Former Governor, Central Bank of Namibia)

  • Roger Jardine (Chairman, Old Mutual)

  • Eric Kalala (Director-General, Entreprise Générale du Cobalt)

  • Anthony Knox (South Africa Country Executive, Bank of America)

  • Wojciech Kulma (CEO, BASF South Africa)

  • Enrico Letta (Dean, IE School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs; Former Prime Minister, Italy; EU Rapporteur on the Future of the Single Market)

  • Patrick Luabeya (Special Envoy of the President, Democratic Republic of Congo; Chairman, ARECOMS)

  • David Makhura (Chair, Development Bank of Southern Africa)

  • Jacko Maree (Deputy Chairman, Standard Bank)

  • Pietro Mininni (CEO, TEHA Africa)

  • John Mushayavanhu (Governor, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe)

  • Frank Mwiti (CEO, Nairobi Stock Exchange)

  • Nosiphiwo Mzamo (CEO, State Diamond Trader)

  • Nhlanhla Nene (Chairman, TEHA Africa; Former Minister of Finance, Republic of South Africa)

  • Tseke Nkadimeng (Founder and CEO, Eco Africa Energy; CEO, Bouvest)

  • Vuyiswa Ramokgopa (MEC for Economic Development, Agriculture and Rural Development, Gauteng Province)

  • Gabriel Semelas (President Africa and the Middle East, Airbus)

  • Martin Sion (Global CEO, Alstom)

  • Jurie Strydom (CEO, Old Mutual)

  • Martin Vaujour (President AMECA Region, Alstom)

  • Jennifer Zabasajja (Chief Africa Anchor & Correspondent, Bloomberg TV)

 

To confirm your participation, kindly complete the registration form using one of the following links, depending on your preferred payment method:

  • Payment by credit card: link

  • Payment by invoice: link

 

We would be delighted to have you with us on this special occasion. We thank you for considering our invitation and look forward to welcoming you in Johannesburg this November.

“AI Diffusion Pathways: The Frontier is Collaboration 
Trust, Talent &Agriculture”

​On 3 November 2026, Luiss Guido Carli University in Rome will host AI Diffusion Pathways: The Frontier is Collaboration – Trust, Talent & Agriculture, an international event organised by the AI Hub for Sustainable Development in partnership with key institutional and innovation ecosystem stakeholders, including the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Luiss Guido Carli University and the Cyber 4.0 Competence Center.

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The event will explore opportunities to strengthen Africa–G7 collaboration in Artificial Intelligence, focusing on three key pillars: Trust, Talent and Agriculture.

A dedicated B2B matchmaking session will connect Italian and European companies with African AI startups and innovators, creating opportunities to develop strategic partnerships, explore pilot projects, access new markets and discuss investment and technology co-development opportunities.

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Italian and European companies interested in participating are invited to submit an expression of interest and indicate their matchmaking preferences by 20 October 2026. A total of 15 slots have been allocated for B2B matchmaking sessions with African innovators.

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This initiative offers a valuable opportunity to build cross-border business connections, engage with emerging African technologies and contribute to the responsible adoption of AI through international collaboration.

LEX Africa Insights:
Africa Legal & Business Update

Stay informed on the latest legal and regulatory developments shaping business across Africa. This month, LEX Africa highlights key changes in investment, taxation, digital regulation, corporate governance, and landmark court decisions.

Cryptocurrency and South Africa’s Exchange Control Regulations

A recent South African High Court judgment in Mangundhla and Another v South African Reserve Bank has brought renewed attention to the treatment of cryptocurrency under the country’s exchange control framework.

The court held that cryptocurrency, including Bitcoin, can constitute “capital” for the purposes of Regulation 10(1)(c) of the Exchange Control Regulations, meaning that cross-border transfers of crypto assets may fall within South Africa’s exchange control regime. The judgment expressly disagreed with the earlier Standard Bank decision, which had reached the opposite conclusion.

The conflicting judgments create legal uncertainty for businesses and investors dealing with cryptocurrency and cross-border transactions. The issue may ultimately be resolved by a higher court or through proposed regulatory amendments aimed at expressly bringing cross-border crypto asset transfers within the exchange control framework.

Tanzania: Electronic Payments Become Mandatory for Specified Transactions

Tanzania has introduced new rules requiring electronic payments for a wide range of specified transactions, following the Electronic Transactions (Mandatory Electronic Payments for Specified Transactions) Order, 2026, which came into effect on 1 July 2026.

The Order covers numerous sectors, including transport, retail, education, tourism, real estate, agriculture, hotels, restaurants and cafés, as well as payments at shopping malls, conference venues, sports arenas and international trade exhibitions.

Businesses currently accepting cash for covered transactions have been granted a six-month transition period to establish the necessary electronic payment systems and comply with the new requirements. The measure is expected to have a significant impact on businesses and consumers, while questions remain regarding transaction costs, payment infrastructure and cybersecurity.

Mozambique: New Cybersecurity Law Strengthens Digital Resilience

Mozambique has introduced a new Cybersecurity Act under Law No. 13/2026, published on 1 July 2026, establishing a comprehensive legal framework for protecting digital networks, information systems and critical infrastructure.

A key development is the creation of the National Cybersecurity System, which includes a National Cybersecurity Council, a National Cybersecurity Authority and a National Cybersecurity Incident Response Team (nCSIRT.MZ). The law introduces new obligations for public and private entities, including cyber risk management, incident prevention and reporting, data protection, system recovery measures and minimum security requirements.

Entities covered by the legislation may also be required to establish internal cybersecurity response teams and register with the relevant authorities. Significant cybersecurity incidents must be reported within the timeframes established by the National Cybersecurity Authority, while non-compliance may result in substantial administrative fines.

The law also establishes a Cybersecurity Fund, supported in part by contributions from certain licensed ICT and cybersecurity service providers. The legislation will enter into force 90 days after publication, with implementing regulations expected within 180 days.

How Should Businesses Create a Strong Brand?

Building a strong brand starts with understanding the role of a trade mark. While a brand represents the overall identity and reputation of a business, a trade mark is the legal sign that distinguishes its goods or services from those of competitors.

Under Kenya’s Trade Marks Act, trade marks can take various forms, including word marks, logos and figurative marks, slogans, three-dimensional marks and, in certain circumstances, colour marks. The key requirement is distinctiveness: a trade mark must enable consumers to identify the source of particular goods or services.

Trade marks perform several important functions. They identify the origin of goods or services, signal a consistent level of quality, and serve as a valuable marketing and commercial asset by building recognition and customer loyalty. Legal protection helps businesses safeguard this value against confusingly similar use by others.

Understanding these principles is the first step towards creating a strong and legally protectable brand. The next article in the series will explore the qualities that make a trade mark distinctive and strong.

Lesotho: High Court Limits Revenue Authority’s Transfer Pricing Powers

The Lesotho High Court has clarified the limits of the Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL)’s powers to adjust income under Section 113 of the Income Tax Act 1993.

In AfriSam (Lesotho) Pty Ltd v Lesotho Revenue Authority and another, decided on 6 August 2026, the Court held that Section 113 does not authorise the Commissioner General to create notional interest income on an interest-free intercompany loan by applying an arm’s-length standard that is not expressly provided for in the legislation.

The Court distinguished between allocating existing income between associated companies and creating income that was never actually paid or accrued. While Section 113 allows certain allocations of income, deductions and credits between related parties, it does not contain a general arm’s-length transfer-pricing provision.

The judgment highlights a potential legislative gap in Lesotho’s transfer-pricing framework, which Parliament may consider addressing through future amendments. In the meantime, businesses subject to Section 113 assessments should carefully review the statutory basis and methodology used by RSL.

Mapei South Africa Commissions New Liquid Plant in Germiston

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Mapei South Africa has successfully commissioned a new liquid plant at its Head Office in Germiston, Gauteng, marking a significant investment in manufacturing capacity, innovation and sustainable growth.

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The new state-of-the-art facility more than doubles production capacity, enabling up to 100,000 litres per shift with four operators, while using approximately half the electricity of the previous system. The investment also brings important benefits in maintenance efficiency, health and safety, and overall productivity.

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The milestone was celebrated with the participation of Robert Bonnici, Regional Director of Mapei Group, and Paul Lowndes, General Manager of Mapei South Africa, highlighting the strong support and global reach of the Mapei Group.

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This investment reinforces Mapei’s confidence in the South African and wider SADC markets, strengthening its commitment to meeting growing demand and supporting a more sustainable future.

Comites Elections

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Com.It.Es. Elections: What Italian Citizens Abroad Need to Know

Italian citizens residing abroad will be called to vote for the renewal of the Comitati degli Italiani all’Estero (Com.It.Es.), the representative bodies of Italian communities abroad.

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Established in 1985, Com.It.Es. are elected directly by Italian citizens residing in the relevant consular district and serve as a point of reference for the Italian community in its relations with Embassies and Consulates.

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What do Com.It.Es. do?

Com.It.Es. represent the interests and needs of Italian citizens abroad in their relations with Italian diplomatic and consular authorities and contribute to fostering the integration of Italian communities in their countries of residence.They also promote the preservation of the historical memory of Italian emigration and help highlight the contribution of Italian communities to the societies in which they live and work.

 

How are Com.It.Es. formed?

A Com.It.Es. may be established in a consular district with more than 3,000 Italian citizens registered with AIRE (Registry of Italians Residing Abroad).Each committee consists of:12 members in communities of up to 100,000 Italian citizens;18 members in communities with more than 100,000 Italian citizens.Members serve a five-year term.

 

Who can vote?

Italian citizens who have been residing in the relevant consular district for at least six months may vote, provided they have submitted the appropriate application to their Consulate to be included in the electoral register for the Com.It.Es. elections.

 

How does voting work?

Com.It.Es. elections take place by postal vote.Ballot papers will be sent to the residential address of eligible voters who have submitted the required application. Once received, voters must return their ballot to the relevant Consulate by following the instructions provided in the information sheet included in the electoral package.Italian citizens residing abroad are encouraged to check the relevant Consulate’s official communications for deadlines, registration requirements and further information on the electoral process.

Bialetti Italia Promotion
with Wings Group

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  • Valid until: December 2026 (One purchase per customer)

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🛒 Interested in bulk Bialetti orders?
Reach out directly to hello@wingsgroup.co.za for assistance and custom pricing.

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Join Our WhatsApp Channel!

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Stay Connected! Join Our New WhatsApp Channel!

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We’ve made staying in the loop easier (and faster) than ever! 
Join our brand-new Italcham WhatsApp Channel to get instant updates
on upcoming events, exclusive news, and everything happening at ItalCham, all in one place.

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Real-time updates and exciting opportunities you won’t want to miss!

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Click the link or scan the QR code above to join now and be part of the updates! 

job board

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​View job vacancies on the SMILE website
via this link - CLICK HERE

 

​If you are currently hiring,
Please take a look at SMILE-vetted candidates HERE

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Alla prossima!

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