Thandile Fikeni, WIB Group CEO.

Thandile Fikeni, CEO of technology firm Word Is Bond, will represent South Africa next week at Russia's 8th Eastern Economic Forum.

Fikeni will provide one of the forum's keynote presentations, at an event that organisers describe as an ‘international platform for developing and strengthening ties with global investment groups’.

Last year, almost 7,000 participants from 68 nations and territories, including Russia, attended the forum, together with around 1,700 business representatives from 700 companies.

This year’s event will also host the Youth Eastern Economic Forum (YEEF 2023), to which Fikeni has been invited to deliver a keynote address, on September 13, 2023.

Fikeni says his message will emphasise the importance of connectivity and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, as well as a call for collaboration.

Word Is Bond develops tech solutions for the healthcare, public transport and security sectors. 

It is currently working with South Africa’s Department of Health to digitise patient records, and in Botswana, it is working on digitising financial management systems and revenue collection for power utilities.

"The need for digitisation in Africa is not merely a choice; it is an imperative," Fikeni said.

“By connecting more people and closing the gap in Internet penetration to the global average, we can truly unlock Africa's digital future, ensuring that no one falls behind in the digital revolution."

He added: "Through collective action, innovation, and a commitment to progress, we can ensure that Africa not only participates, but thrives in the digital age, realising its full potential and securing a brighter future for all.”