A new publication focusing on business and opportunities in Africa is set to hit the streets next month. Named Gateway To Africa (GTA), the London-based title aims to provide vital tools for investors and decision-makers focused on the developing continent. At its core is the premise that South African businesses in the UK and on the continent form ideal partners to leverage opportunities in the rest of Africa.
The print element of the title, an A4 glossy magazine, will have a highly-targeted executive distribution in the UK and South Africa. At the heart of the title will be a website (www.gatewaytoafrica.com).
In addition a weekly e-newsletter and digital edition will be distributed to a select database of British, Sub-Saharan and South African decision-makers. The initiative forms part of the stable of Blue Sky Group, publishers of the UK-based newspaper The South African, SA Property Monthly, Australian Times and New Zealand Times. The publication sets out to be a conduit for trade and investment between UK and Sub-Saharan Africa. Readers will be provided with in-depth original business features, tools and news that unlock the opportunities between the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Blue Sky Group’s new title, Gateway To Africa, will cover many key sectors – from banking to mining.
It aims to provide resources for UK and BRICS companies looking at doing business in developing Southern Africa, via South Africa. It also seeks to do the same for companies in Africa who wish to extend their influence in the UK, or transcontinental companies who can service the African supply chains.
Sectors covered will include: energy, banking, finance, retail, agriculture and mining. Interviews with a cross-section of key African entrepreneurs and leaders on the business stage will feature.Most importantly, the magazine sets out to become the place to speak directly to highly-skilled, experienced African recruits in the UK looking to bring their skills back home to African corporates.
The publication will be launched in July 2012.
The launch comes at a time when various business and government figures are increasingly highlighting the development and opportunities emerging in Africa. Last month South Africa’s Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe said Africa is often referred to as the “new investment frontier.” Africa is believed to be the second fastest growing continent after Asia.
In addition, a recent Barclays report that surveyed 250 UK companies found that the vast majority (92%) believe there is opportunity for business in Africa today. Two thirds of the companies surveyed think this opportunity will grow in the next five years.
“Over the last 10 years of publishing TheSouthAfrican.com we have built up an invaluable network of individuals and partner organisations whose sole intent is the success of the continent,” said James Durrant, MD of Blue Sky.
“Africa’s time has finally come and we’re here to assist.”
by Irene Madongo
