What is the future of AI in marketing?

By Daily News Reporter

AI marketing is achieving new advancements at a phenomenal speed. Here are some ways it’s reshaping businesses for the better.

Computer vision

Computer vision allows AI marketing tools to derive insights from non-text digital data available in the form of raw images. From powering optical character recognition (OCR) to analyze information and signatures in checks and recognize brand logos in videos, to extracting text from images for accessibly, computer vision is helping solve key business challenges every day.

In retail, computer vision can be used to identify imperfections in products in a manufacturing assembly line or to ensure shelves are always full. It also helps in improving biometric authentication with enhanced facial recognition to identify shoplifters, a customer or employee in distress and so much more.

AI chatbots

Conversational AI in the form of virtual agents and intelligent chatbots is set to change traditional marketing. AI chatbots marketing can put brand visibility in hyper drive with targeted messaging. They can boost engagement with existing customers and prospects to generate leads and also analyze their data to provide you with fine-grained insights for predictive and prescriptive marketing.

Virtual agents also streamline customer requests, ensure 24/7 customer support and route conversations to the appropriate team for the best results–all resulting in increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Predictive and prescriptive AI

Predictive and prescriptive analytics are already making AI marketing tools essential for marketers. Prescription analytics sorts social listening data into categories based on consumer motivations, mindsets and intentions. This information from conversational analytics enables you to develop highly targeted ads, posts and emails that will yield optimal results. A great example of this is how streaming services use your previous choices to provide you with content relevant to your interests.

Predictive analytics enables you to go further so you can anticipate outcomes and develop a business strategy well in advance based on past voice of customer data. This means you can build long-term business models, conduct risk evaluations, expand market acquisitions, and improve product designs and more.

Responsible AI

AI marketing also takes into account the fact that existing AI models are not perfect. To achieve true advantages and accuracy in deriving business insights, AI in business needs to be fair, secure, reliable, inclusive and transparent. This means that AI tools need to be developed more thoughtfully and trained with diverse data to remove biases.

There are also data privacy, copyright and governance rules being developed to ensure that ethical and societal implications are considered in order to be fair to humans and AI development companies. This means social networks and social marketing teams need to be cognizant of how they employ AI tools to collect customer data, create content, show personalized ads to influence purchase behavior or for any other reason.

 

ZDA launches Exporters survey Report

By Daily News Reporter

Zambia Development Agency (ZDA)has launched a survey which is an important report which highlights the performance of exports in particular, nontraditional exports (NTES) and the factors affecting exporters and exports, the survey is aimed at informing policy and strategy formulation in order to improve exports The Agency undertakes the exports survey annually in order to assess the performance of Zambia‘s Non-traditional exports (NTES) and propose interventions in addressing the identifies And in the report it shows that in 2023 the agency linked 283 exporters from various sectors to export markets.

From the linkages $98.3million worth of export leads and $3.7million confirmed orders were reordered mainly from the agro-processing, chemicals and manufacturing sectors.

Furthermore through Zambia export development fund (ZEDF), the agency provided trade financing amounting to$582,692 to four exports in the manufacturing, mining and agriculture sector And speaking during at the launch in Lusaka ZDA BOARD CHAIRPERSON PROF. BIEMBA MALITI stated that these interventions indicates that the agency has continued unweaving support in promoting and facilitating trade particularly the of growth of NTES

And Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry CHIPOKA MULENGA MP, stated that Government is yielding dividend as evidence by increase in NTES from 3.52 billion in 2022 to $ 4.23 billion in 2023, representing an increase of 20.2 percent.

The share of NTES to total exports in 2023 stood at 40.6 % signifying an over achievement against the 8 NDP annual target.

He further said that the economy has also demonstrated resilience and steadily growth from 3.6 percent in 2021 to 5.8 percent in 2023.

The government is cognizant of some the challenges exporters are experiencing which includes high cost of doing business, export bans, bureaucratic export process, and high export duties in target markets.

Government has put in place incentives specifically for exporters operating in the special economic zones in order to attract more export oriented investments, reduce the cost of production and enhance competitiveness of businesses,” Chipoka said.

 

 

The Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) has called on the government to expedite Value Added Tax (VAT) refunds for manufacturers who consistently comply with tax regulations. During the 2024 pre-budget meeting in Lusaka, ZAM President Ashu Sagar emphasized the need for a scorecard system to prioritize compliant manufacturers for VAT refunds and other tax-related reimbursements.

Mr. Sagar proposed significant tax reforms, including:

Reducing Income Tax Rates: Manufacturers serving domestic and export markets would see their income tax rates reduced from 20% and 10% to 16% and 14%, respectively.

Extending Proof of Exportation Timeframe: The timeframe for presenting proof of exportation under VAT Rule 18 would be extended from the current 3 months to 6 months.

Increasing Turnover Tax Threshold: Aligning the Turnover Tax (TOT) threshold with the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) classification by raising it from K800,000.

Additionally, Mr. Sagar urged the government to standardize council levies under a single overseeing ministry and develop regulations for product listings in chain stores. He also highlighted the need to strengthen existing incentive frameworks and optimize tax structures to enhance the manufacturing sector’s performance, which has been impacted by broader economic trends

 

 

TB REMAINS ONE OF THE TOP TEN CAUSES OF MORTALITY AND MORBIDITY IN ZAMBIA

By Daily News Reporter

The Ministry of Health has revealed that Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the top ten causes of mortality and morbidity in Zambia, particularly affecting people living with HIV, despite being a preventable disease. TB still remains among the top ten causes of mortality in Zambia The TB mortality rate among people living with HIV and those not infected with HIV in Zambia stands at 74/100,000 and 30/100,000, respectively.

During a Media Café Meeting in Lusaka, Ministry of Health Spokesperson Dr. Kalangwa Kalangwa, stated that a significant uptake of TB preventive medicines among people living with HIV, has exceeded to 90%. However, he noted that low uptake of less than 50% among HIV-negative individuals who are also at risk.

Dr.Kalangwa highlighted that hesitancy is prevalent among this group because they do not exhibit TB symptoms and thus believe they cannot benefit from the preventive treatment. He emphasized the importance of encouraging individuals with certain risk factors to visit health facilities for TB screening. If they do not show symptoms suggestive of TB, they should be offered TB preventive fit kits.

To combat TB in Zambia effectively its necessity of promoting TB screening and preventive measures among all at-risk groups. The Ministry offers various treatment duration options tailored to patient preferences and clinical assessments, ranging from one month to six months.

 Additionally, Dr. Kalangwa assured that Zambia has maintained a consistent supply of all necessary commodities for TB screening, diagnosis, and treatment for the past eight years, underscoring the country's commitment to tackling this public health issue.    It was in November 2021, Beatrice kangwa (name withheld) who hails from Chongwe District diagnosed with TB at the youthful age of 26. The first symptom she noticed was the persistent cough. She felt it needed immediate medical attention and consulted her local doctor. The diagnosis by the local doctor was that she was allergic to sweets and fried food. She took the advice and followed the prescribed medicines and got rid of her cough which returned soon and this time in the company of a low-grade fever.

The doctor prescribed more tests and x-ray. After looking at her x-ray, the astonished doctor immediately referred her to a specialist at levy Mwanawasa university teaching hospital in Lusaka. By now she feared the worst and the doctor immediately assured her that it wasn’t cancer but TB.

To confirm it the specialist doctor recommended more tests and they all validated it. Her immediate concern was whether she could be infecting her family members with such a contagious disease.

“More than the disease, it is the stigma that is harder to fight. I remember I went into a shell, scared that people might keep away thinking it’s contagious. I wondered who will marry me. Will this affect my siblings and their chance of getting married?” She recalls.

To her slight relief the doctor said her that her TB being extra-pulmonary was non-infectious. Reassured, she started her treatment under the specialist doctor's observation. A week passed by and the side effects from the medicines took a toll on her body. She started vomiting and had a constant uneasiness in her stomach. She contacted her doctor and altered her dosage. The new TB medication was less problematic and in a short span her body also adapted to the TB medication. She started to lead her 'somewhat regular life'. The doctor assured her that in nine months she would be TB free and she was eagerly looking forward to it.

Unexpected Road blocks as it was nearing the course of nine months, she noticed a bulge on the right side of her chest wall. She immediately brought it to the notice of the doctor whore commended a surgery. By then it was near to ten months of treatment and with the bulge she continued the medication for another two more months. During this period in every three months she regularly underwent x-ray and blood tests.

The doctor made sure that she was responding to the second line treatment well." I felt better and became hopeful again. And in 2011, I was declared TB free," she says.

In most cases, TB-affected individuals are often left on their own to deal with their struggles. If TB and its long treatment with numerous side effects were not bad enough mental health challenges combined with stigma make things worse.

TB, the Best Teacher!“ One thing I learned is that it is very important to talk about the stigma of TB. Silence was not an option for me. Remember stigma impacts you deeply. If you have TB talk to someone whom you trust. Don't suffer in silence. Let us fight TB together. TB had disrupted my life on multiple levels. I dreamt of a perfectly married life at26 and babies by 29 and watch them grow for the rest of my life. All of them went awry. Dealing with TB taught me a few lessons. I realized that I was craving an easy life with no difficulties. Surviving TB turned out to be the best teacher for me as I learnt that pain is the only way to grow. TB is curable. Let us collectively fight against it. The right diagnosis, proper treatment and the much-needed awareness about it are necessary to defeat TB. We must fight against TB, not those affected by it,” she added.

 

NISIR STARTS TRIALS ON DROUGHT RESISTANT CASSAVA AND SWEET POTATOES

By Daily News Reporter

The National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research (NISIR) is conducting trials on drought-resistant varieties of cassava and sweet potatoes. These trials aim to recommend crops suitable for the southern part of the country, which has been severely affected by drought.

 

Dr. Alinesi Chakwiya, Head of NISIR’s Plant Science Research Center, explained that they are focusing on varieties that require minimal water but can still thrive and provide sustenance. Specifically, the drier regions, such as Southern Province, will be recommended for crops like sorghum, sweet potatoes, and cassava—plants known for their ability to withstand long dry spells.

 

The cassava trials are expected to span a minimum of three years, while sweet potato trials will take around a year and a half. Once completed, NISIR will be able to recommend specific crops for planting in drought conditions.

And Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati has encouraged NISIR to identify crops suitable for each province, emphasizing the importance of regional recommendations to enhance food security at the household level.

 

 

 

“Africa will be the pivotal continent in the world, given its economic prospects”—African Development Bank Group President

By Daily News Reporter

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, recently delivered an inspiring address at Chatham House, emphasizing Africa’s untapped potential and abundant opportunities. In his presentation titled “Envisioning Africa’s Economic Prospects,”

 Adesina highlighted several key points:

Tremendous Opportunities in Africa:

Africa is characterized by a young, dynamic, and vibrant workforce.

The continent has massive renewable energy potential, abundant biodiversity resources, and rapid regional integration.

Innovative solutions are being developed to unlock Africa’s vast natural capital.

Resilience Amid Global Challenges:

Despite global challenges, Africa’s economies remain resilient.

The continent is the second-fastest-growing region after Asia.

The African Economic Outlook Report1 indicates 3.7% economic growth for 2024, projected to increase to 4.3% in 2025.

Fifteen countries achieved real growth rates of at least 5%, and half of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies are in Africa.

Overcoming Headwinds:

To achieve strong economic prospects and resilience, Africa must address significant challenges.

These challenges include tackling climate change, managing rising debt, and implementing critical global financial reforms.

Adesina emphasized the need for structural changes in African economies, increased agricultural productivity, expanded infrastructure investments, accelerated digitalization, and greater private sector mobilization. By doing so, Africa can unlock its economic potential and play a pivotal role in the world economy.

 

NRFA PARTNERS WITH 3 UNIVERSITIES

By Daily News Reporter

The National Road Fund Agency (NRFA) has announced a significant multilateral collaboration with the University of Zambia, Copperbelt University, Mulungushi University, and the Zambia Institute of Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR). This partnership aims to address the increasingly complex challenges in policy formulation and road sector finance management in a global context.

During the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the four institutions, NRFA Acting Director and Chief Executive Officer Daniel Mtongo emphasized the importance of concerted efforts and resource pooling to effectively tackle these challenges. The MOU is designed to facilitate professionally conducted industry research for the benefit of Zambia's road sector and the country as a whole.

He expressed confidence that by uniting the intellectual and research capabilities of these esteemed institutions, significant progress could be made in policy research and debt management.

And at the same event, ZIPAR Interim Executive Director Zali Bryson Chikuba highlighted that the MOU formalizes the relationship between NRFA and ZIPAR, providing a clear framework for research and policy analysis. This collaboration aims to generate empirical evidence to support the sustainable development of Zambia’s road sector.

Meanwhile Professor Trywell Kalusopa, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Zambia, speaking on behalf of the universities, referenced the 2018 African Economic Outlook Report. He noted that the Zambian Government's financed infrastructure investment averaged 3.1% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) between 2006 and 2011, increasing to an average of 5.5% between 2012 and 2017. He added that investment in infrastructure is expected to remain high in the medium term, largely financed by foreign borrowing.

This collaboration underscores the critical need for research and policy analysis to support effective road sector finance management and sustainable infrastructure development in Zambia.