TikTok Removes Over Four Million Videos In Nigeria As 2025 Safety Enforcement Surges

Brand Spur
-
0
TikTok Removes Over Four Million Videos In Nigeria As 2025 Safety Enforcement Surges

TikTok has taken down more than four million videos in Nigeria as part of its latest safety enforcement actions, according to its fourth-quarter 2025 transparency report, highlighting a significant escalation in content moderation efforts across the country. The platform also disrupted tens of thousands of live broadcasts during the same period over violations of its community rules.

The report shows that 4,021,252 videos were removed in Nigeria for breaching platform policies, with nearly all of the content detected and filtered out before users reported it. A large share of the flagged material was also eliminated within 24 hours of being posted, reflecting faster automated intervention across the platform’s moderation systems.

Brandspur Brand News gathered that TikTok’s enforcement activity in Nigeria forms part of a broader global crackdown on harmful and policy-violating content as the company expands its use of artificial intelligence and automated detection tools.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/nigerian-senate-advances-cryptocurrency-regulation-bill-to-boost-investor-protection-in-2026/

Globally, the platform removed over 175 million videos within the quarter, accounting for a small fraction of total uploads, with the majority of enforcement actions driven by automated systems rather than manual reporting. A significant portion of removed content was processed within a day, underscoring TikTok’s emphasis on rapid response moderation.

The company also recorded intensified action on live-stream content, with more than 86,000 live sessions interrupted in Nigeria due to violations. On a global scale, millions of live sessions and creators were flagged, as the platform tightened enforcement around monetisation rules and harmful live broadcasts.

In addition, TikTok reported ongoing scrutiny of artificial intelligence-generated content, stating that it continues to refine its systems for identifying and labelling edited or synthetic media. Thousands of videos were removed in other African markets under its AI and manipulated media policies during the review period.

The platform disclosed that it is expanding tools such as invisible watermarking and cross-platform content credentials to help trace AI-generated materials and improve transparency. These measures are designed to help users identify synthetic content while reducing the spread of misleading media online.

TikTok also noted that billions of videos globally have already been labelled using its content identification systems, as it deepens collaboration with industry partners and safety organisations to strengthen digital trust and platform accountability.

The company reaffirmed that its moderation approach combines advanced automated systems with human review teams, while also engaging with regulatory and safety stakeholders in Nigeria to support safer online environments amid rising concerns about harmful digital content.

Nigerian Senate Advances Cryptocurrency Regulation Bill To Boost Investor Protection In 2026

Brand Spur
-
0
Nigerian Senate Advances Cryptocurrency Regulation Bill To Boost Investor Protection In 2026

The Nigerian Senate has advanced a bill aimed at creating a comprehensive legal framework for cryptocurrency and other digital assets, marking a significant step towards formal regulation of one of Africa’s largest virtual asset markets.

The proposed legislation, which passed second reading during plenary, seeks to establish regulatory oversight for virtual assets, digital asset operators and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs). Lawmakers say the measure is designed to strengthen investor protection, improve transparency and support the growth of Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital economy.

If enacted, the bill would introduce licensing requirements and compliance obligations for cryptocurrency exchanges and other digital asset businesses operating within the country. The proposal is expected to undergo further scrutiny by the Senate Committee on Capital Market, which has been directed to conduct additional legislative review and stakeholder consultations.

Brandspur Banking News Desk gathered that supporters of the legislation believe Nigeria’s high level of cryptocurrency adoption has outpaced the development of a dedicated legal framework, creating regulatory gaps that expose investors to financial risks and market abuses.

Nigeria remains one of the world’s most active cryptocurrency markets, with millions of users relying on digital assets for investments, savings and cross-border transactions. However, the sector has evolved amid ongoing concerns about fraud, cybercrime, market manipulation and unregulated investment schemes targeting unsuspecting participants.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/nigerian-senate-pushes-for-total-textile-import-ban-to-revive-local-industry-in-2026/

Lawmakers backing the bill argue that clearer regulations would provide legal certainty for businesses operating in the digital asset space while improving oversight of transactions conducted through virtual platforms. They also contend that a structured regulatory environment could encourage responsible innovation in blockchain technology and financial services.

Several senators noted during deliberations that other African economies have moved ahead with policies governing digital assets and fintech innovation. They urged Nigeria to strengthen its regulatory architecture to remain competitive within the continent’s evolving digital finance landscape.

Supporters further maintained that a transparent regulatory system would help authorities monitor financial activities more effectively and reduce the risks associated with illicit transactions conducted through unregulated channels.

The bill also seeks to address growing concerns over investor losses linked to fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes and unlicensed digital investment platforms. Industry observers say stronger supervision could improve confidence among retail and institutional participants while enhancing market integrity.

Should the legislation secure final approval from the National Assembly and receive presidential assent, it could represent one of the most significant reforms in Nigeria’s digital asset sector. Analysts believe the framework could attract greater local and foreign investment, support fintech innovation and strengthen the country’s position as a leading technology and financial services hub in Africa.

Nigerian Senate Pushes For Total Textile Import Ban To Revive Local Industry In 2026

Brand Spur
-
0
Nigerian Senate Pushes For Total Textile Import Ban To Revive Local Industry In 2026

The Nigerian Senate has called for a complete prohibition on textile imports as lawmakers seek to revive the country’s once-thriving textile manufacturing sector and reduce dependence on foreign-made fabrics.

The resolution was adopted after deliberations on a motion highlighting the collapse of domestic textile production, the loss of hundreds of thousands of jobs and the growing reliance on imported products to meet local demand. Senators argued that urgent intervention is required to restore industrial capacity and stimulate economic activity across the textile value chain.

Nigeria’s textile industry was historically one of the country’s largest employers and a major contributor to manufacturing output. At its peak, the sector supported hundreds of thousands of direct jobs and sustained extensive economic activities linked to cotton farming, processing and garment production.

Brandspur Brand News gathered that lawmakers expressed concern over the industry’s decline over the past several decades, noting that many factories that once operated across major industrial centres have either shut down or become inactive, leaving the country heavily dependent on imported textile materials.

During the debate, senators stressed that reviving local textile manufacturing could create employment opportunities for young Nigerians, strengthen domestic production and contribute to efforts aimed at addressing poverty and insecurity. Several lawmakers also warned that continued dependence on imports threatens the survival of remaining local operators.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/ncc-confirms-over-75-million-nigerian-subscribers-received-compensation-for-poor-network-service-in-2026/

The Senate further emphasised the need for coordinated action involving relevant government agencies responsible for trade, industry and agriculture. Legislators argued that policy measures alone may not be sufficient without effective implementation and long-term industrial support.

Beyond restrictions on imports, lawmakers advocated increased support for cotton production to ensure a reliable supply of raw materials for manufacturers. Industry stakeholders have long identified declining cotton output as one of the factors affecting the competitiveness of local textile firms.

The upper legislative chamber also urged the Federal Government to provide additional funding support for the sector through development finance institutions. Senators noted that access to affordable financing would be critical for modernising production facilities, replacing obsolete equipment and improving productivity.

Calls were also made for targeted intervention programmes that would help textile manufacturers compete more effectively in both domestic and international markets. Lawmakers argued that strategic investment in the industry could contribute significantly to economic diversification and industrial development.

Following the adoption of the resolution, the Senate urged the Federal Government to prioritise the revitalisation of textile manufacturing nationwide while encouraging increased cotton cultivation among farmers. The chamber maintained that stronger protection for local producers and renewed investment across the value chain could help restore a sector that once played a vital role in Nigeria’s economy.

NCC Confirms Over 75 Million Nigerian Subscribers Received Compensation For Poor Network Service In 2026

Brand Spur
-
0
NCC Confirms Over 75 Million Nigerian Subscribers Received Compensation For Poor Network Service In 2026

More than 75 million telecom subscribers in Nigeria have received compensation from mobile network operators following service disruptions and network quality issues, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

The disclosure highlights the scale of regulatory efforts to protect telecom consumers and enforce service quality standards across Africa’s largest telecommunications market. The compensation programme forms part of measures aimed at ensuring that operators remain accountable for service failures affecting voice calls, data connectivity and other communications services.

Nigeria’s telecom sector serves millions of consumers and remains a critical pillar of the country’s digital economy. As demand for mobile data, digital payments, streaming services and online business activities continues to rise, network reliability has become increasingly important for both individuals and enterprises.

Brandspur Brand News understands that the compensation provided to affected customers followed regulatory interventions designed to address service deficiencies and improve customer experience across telecommunications networks.

The NCC has, over the years, strengthened oversight of service quality through monitoring frameworks, consumer protection regulations and performance benchmarks for licensed operators. These measures are intended to ensure that subscribers receive fair treatment when network challenges significantly affect service delivery.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/ceva-logistics-and-efl-africa-launch-strategic-joint-venture-to-expand-nigeria-logistics-market-in-2026/

The development comes amid ongoing investments by telecom companies in network infrastructure, spectrum deployment and capacity expansion. Operators have faced growing pressure to improve service quality as subscriber numbers and data consumption continue to increase nationwide.

Industry stakeholders note that network performance remains a key factor influencing customer satisfaction and digital inclusion. Reliable connectivity is essential for financial transactions, education, healthcare services, e-commerce and other activities that increasingly depend on digital platforms.

The latest compensation figures underscore the regulator’s focus on consumer rights and service accountability within the telecommunications industry. They also reflect broader efforts to encourage higher operational standards while maintaining confidence in Nigeria’s communications ecosystem.

As the sector continues to expand, analysts expect the NCC to sustain its emphasis on service quality monitoring and consumer protection, ensuring that operators meet regulatory obligations while supporting the country’s digital transformation agenda.

With telecommunications playing a central role in economic growth and technological development, improved network performance remains a priority for regulators, operators and subscribers alike across Nigeria.

CEVA Logistics And EFL Africa Launch Strategic Joint Venture To Expand Nigeria Logistics Market In 2026

Brand Spur
-
0
CEVA Logistics And EFL Africa Launch Strategic Joint Venture To Expand Nigeria Logistics Market In 2026

CEVA Logistics and EFL Africa have established a new joint venture in Nigeria, a move aimed at strengthening logistics operations across West Africa and improving access to international trade networks for businesses operating in the country.

The partnership, unveiled on June 10, 2026, brings together CEVA Logistics’ global supply chain infrastructure and EFL Africa’s established operational footprint within Nigeria. The new company, CEVA EFL Limited, is expected to provide integrated logistics services designed to support importers, exporters, manufacturers and businesses seeking more efficient cargo movement within and beyond Nigeria.

Nigeria remains one of Africa’s most important trade and logistics hubs due to its large consumer market, expanding industrial sector and strategic location on the Gulf of Guinea. The latest alliance reflects growing international interest in the country’s logistics sector as operators seek to improve connectivity between West Africa and global markets.

Brandspur Brand News understands that the joint venture will leverage CEVA Logistics’ international presence across more than 170 countries while building on EFL Africa’s existing infrastructure and expertise in freight management, port operations and inland cargo distribution.

A major component of the partnership is the deployment of dedicated barge services designed to move containers from Lagos ports to inland logistics facilities. The initiative is expected to ease pressure on congested road corridors around the nation’s busiest ports while improving cargo evacuation efficiency.

The venture will also operate extensive inland container depot facilities located in Lagos, including sites in Apapa and Ikorodu. These facilities provide significant storage capacity and support export processing activities, helping businesses streamline cargo handling and reduce logistics bottlenecks.

In addition to freight movement services, the company will offer customs clearance solutions through licensed in-house teams. The integrated approach is expected to reduce delays associated with cargo processing and provide customers with a more seamless logistics experience.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/cbn-repositions-enaira-in-2026-digital-payments-strategy-after-slow-adoption/

Industry observers note that logistics efficiency remains a critical factor in Nigeria’s trade competitiveness. Port congestion, transportation challenges and customs-related delays have historically increased operating costs for businesses. Investments in alternative transport infrastructure and integrated supply chain solutions are increasingly viewed as essential to improving trade performance.

The collaboration is also expected to contribute to workforce development through the transfer of international logistics expertise and operational best practices. Such partnerships have become increasingly important as Nigeria seeks to strengthen local capacity while attracting foreign investment into strategic sectors of the economy.

For CEVA Logistics, the venture expands its presence in one of Africa’s fastest-growing logistics markets. For EFL Africa, the agreement provides greater access to global networks and resources that can support long-term growth across Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

The development comes as cargo volumes continue to grow across Nigeria’s maritime sector. Increased demand for efficient freight forwarding, warehousing, inland transportation and export logistics services has encouraged operators to invest in infrastructure capable of supporting expanding regional trade flows.

Analysts believe the new venture could enhance supply chain reliability for businesses engaged in domestic and international commerce while supporting Nigeria’s broader ambitions to strengthen its position as a leading trade gateway for West Africa.

With global supply chains becoming increasingly interconnected, the launch of CEVA EFL Limited signals a renewed push to modernise logistics services, improve cargo mobility and create stronger links between Nigerian businesses and international markets.

CBN Repositions eNaira In 2026 Digital Payments Strategy After Slow Adoption

Brand Spur
-
0
CBN Repositions eNaira In 2026 Digital Payments Strategy After Slow Adoption

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has unveiled plans to redefine the role of the eNaira, signalling a major shift in strategy nearly five years after the country’s digital currency was launched with ambitious expectations of transforming electronic payments and financial inclusion.

Under its newly released Payments System Vision (PSV) 2028 framework, the apex bank is moving away from positioning the eNaira as a standalone consumer payment product. Instead, the digital currency is expected to function as part of the broader infrastructure supporting Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital payments ecosystem.

The change reflects growing recognition that the eNaira has struggled to achieve widespread public adoption since its introduction in October 2021. While the digital currency was launched as Africa’s first central bank digital currency (CBDC) for retail use, uptake has remained limited despite efforts to promote its use among individuals and businesses.

Industry analysts have long argued that existing banking applications, fintech platforms and mobile money services already provide many of the payment functions the eNaira was designed to deliver, making it difficult for the digital currency to gain a competitive advantage among users. Brandspur Banking News Desk understands that the CBN’s latest strategy seeks to address this challenge by integrating the eNaira more deeply into the country’s payment architecture rather than competing directly with private-sector providers.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/bitget-launches-anti-scam-month-2026-recovers-32-3-million-for-users/

The revised approach aligns with Nigeria’s broader objective of building a more efficient, interoperable and inclusive digital payments environment. By embedding the eNaira within payment infrastructure, regulators hope to unlock new use cases that could support financial services innovation, improve transaction efficiency and strengthen the resilience of the financial system.

Since its launch, the eNaira has been promoted as a tool capable of lowering remittance costs, expanding access to financial services and accelerating the country’s transition towards a cashless economy. However, adoption levels have remained below initial expectations, prompting calls for a reassessment of its role within the financial ecosystem.

The PSV 2028 roadmap suggests the CBN is now focusing on long-term integration and infrastructure development as it seeks to maximise the value of the eNaira within Nigeria’s digital economy. The move could shape the future of digital payments in Africa’s largest economy as regulators, banks, fintech firms and payment service providers continue to adapt to changing consumer preferences and technological developments.

With Nigeria remaining one of Africa’s most active fintech markets, the success of the CBN’s new strategy will likely depend on how effectively the eNaira can complement existing payment channels while delivering unique value to businesses, consumers and financial institutions.

Bitget Launches Anti-Scam Month 2026, Recovers $32.3 Million For Users

Brand Spur
-
0
Bitget Launches Anti-Scam Month 2026, Recovers $32.3 Million For Users

VICTORIA, Seychelles – June, 2026

Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), has launched Anti-Scam Month 2026 under the theme “More Assets, Stronger Shield. Stay Safe in the Multi-Asset Era.” The annual initiative focuses on helping users navigate an increasingly complex threat landscape as digital asset platforms expand beyond crypto into broader multi-asset ecosystems.

The campaign is accompanied by the release of key security and fraud prevention results from 2025. During the year, Bitget intercepted more than 150 million malicious attack requests, identified over 13,000 high-risk malicious IP addresses, and handled 18,135 user protection cases. The platform’s security team also helped users recover approximately $32.3 million linked to security incidents and fraudulent activity.

“The industry is entering a multi-asset era where users can access a wider range of products and markets through a single platform. As that access expands, security responsibilities increase too,” said Hon Ng, Chief Legal Officer at Bitget. “Protecting users requires continuous risk monitoring, rapid response mechanisms, security education, and close cooperation across the industry. Anti-Scam Month reflects the importance of building those protections alongside product innovation.”

Throughout 2025, Bitget continued to strengthen its security framework across account protection, asset custody, fraud prevention, and platform risk management. The platform expanded Passkey authentication capabilities based on FIDO2 and WebAuthn standards, enhanced multi-factor authentication coverage for high-risk account actions, strengthened anti-phishing protections, and improved device management controls that allow users to monitor and manage account access in real time.

Bitget also expanded its real-time threat detection and web security infrastructure in 2025. Security systems recorded more than 2.8 billion interceptions through custom protection rules and mitigated over 1.5 billion DDoS-related attack attempts. The platform’s monitoring capabilities were further enhanced through machine learning-based behavioral analysis designed to identify suspicious activity and emerging threats across multiple layers of the ecosystem.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/stanbic-ibtc-partners-with-national-theatre-to-spark-creativity-in-180-children-at-the-2026-blue-kids-day-the-toontopia-edition/

User education remained a major focus of Bitget’s security strategy. Anti-Scam Month campaigns conducted across 2024 and 2025 reached approximately 1.38 billion users globally through security awareness content, educational resources, and community engagement initiatives. The company also expanded its Anti-Scam Hub, maintained its public bug bounty program, and introduced interactive initiatives such as the Smarter Eyes Challenge, which attracted close to 50,000 participants through simulated phishing and scam detection exercises.

Bitget continued to collaborate with leading blockchain security organizations, including SlowMist and Elliptic, to support threat intelligence sharing, anti-fraud research, and broader industry awareness efforts. Through a combination of platform security, user education, and industry cooperation, the company continues to invest in creating a safer environment for users navigating digital and tokenized financial markets.

Read our CLO’s letter here: https://www.bitget.com/blog/articles/bitget-clo-letter-more-assets-mean-more-responsibility

For more information, visit: https://www.bitget.com/events/antiscamhub

About Bitget

Bitget is the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 125 million users and offering access to over 2M crypto tokens, 100+ tokenized stocks, ETFs, commodities, FX, and precious metals such as gold. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI agent, which co-pilots trade execution. Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships with LALIGA and MotoGP™. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. Bitget currently leads in the tokenized TradFi market, providing the industry’s lowest fees and highest liquidity across 150 regions worldwide.

For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord

Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

Stanbic IBTC Partners With National Theatre To Spark Creativity In 180 Children At The 2026 Blue Kids Day – The ToonTopia Edition

Brand Spur
-
0
Stanbic IBTC Partners With National Theatre To Spark Creativity In 180 Children At The 2026 Blue Kids Day – The ToonTopia Edition

Stanbic IBTC reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing the next generation
of innovators and creative thinkers at its annual Blue Kids Day event.
Held in partnership with the National Theatre, this year’s
ToonTopia-themed edition, spotlighting Nigeria’s second Children’s
Animation Festival, delivered a vibrant and immersive experience
designed to spark creativity, inspire imagination, and promote learning
among young minds. This was not just an event, it was a launchpad for
discovery, expression, and boundless potential.

Launched in 2022, Stanbic IBTC Blue Kids Day has grown into a dynamic
platform dedicated to enriching young minds through impactful and
memorable experiences, demonstrating the organization’s enduring
commitment to shaping a brighter future for children. This year’s
ToonTopia-themed edition brought that vision to life, celebrating
African storytelling, creativity, and imagination. It delivered an
immersive and inspiring learning experience for 180 children aged 8 to
12, going beyond the traditional Children’s Day celebration to spark
curiosity, unlock creativity, and shape future possibilities.

The event was successfully held on May 23, 2026, at the renowned Wole
Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts (National Theatre), Iganmu,
Lagos. It delivered a dynamic and immersive experience, with
participants taking part in animation workshops, art sessions, film
screenings, digital creativity classes, and hands-on educational
activities. Each session was thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity,
ignite creativity, and build future-ready skills. The programme
concluded on a high note, as every child received a certificate of
participation, recognizing their enthusiasm, creativity, and the new
knowledge they gained throughout the experience.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/durban-filmmart-institute-announces-the-selection-of-participants-for-talents-durban-2026/

Speaking on the initiative, Bunmi Dayo-Olagunju, Deputy Chief Executive
of Stanbic IBTC Bank, said:
“Children thrive when given the freedom to explore, imagine, and
create. Through Blue Kids Day, we are deliberate about creating
experiences that spark confidence, fuel creativity, and encourage
lifelong learning. Our collaboration with the National Theatre reflects
our strong belief that exposure to creative and digital skills can
unlock the boundless potential within every child and prepare them for
future opportunities.”

She further reaffirmed Stanbic IBTC’s commitment to supporting
initiatives that nurture the holistic development of children, while
creating lasting value for families and the communities they serve.

Reinforcing this vision, Olu Delano, Executive Director, Personal and
Private Banking at Stanbic IBTC Bank, stated:
_“At Stanbic IBTC, empowering children goes beyond financial literacy,
it is about opening their minds to possibilities and inspiring their
imagination. Blue Kids Day allows us to support families by creating
experiences that build creativity, confidence, and future-ready skills.
Our collaboration with the National Theatre underscores our commitment
to raising well-rounded individuals prepared to thrive in a
fast-changing world.”_

This partnership underscores the rising importance of creative education
and digital literacy in today’s world. By introducing children to
animation, storytelling, and artistic expression in an evolving fun,
hands-on environment, the programme not only made learning exciting but
also nurtured innovation and critical thinking.

As Stanbic IBTC continues to enable Nigerians to live a better life by
going beyond banking to enrich lives, Blue Kids Day stands as a strong
symbol of its commitment to empowering young people, supporting
families, and shaping a generation of confident, imaginative, and
future-ready Nigerians.

Durban FilmMart Institute Announces The Selection Of Participants For Talents Durban 2026

Brand Spur
-
0
Durban FilmMart Institute Announces The Selection Of Participants For Talents Durban 2026

The Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) announces the lineup of
participants for the 19th edition of Talents Durban, taking place during
the Durban FilmMart (DFM) in Durban from 9 – 12 October 2026. As the
African satellite programme of Berlinale Talents, Talents Durban
continues to play a vital role in nurturing emerging African filmmakers,
animators, and film critics through mentorship, professional
development, and international networking opportunities.

Berlinale Talents is a networking platform organised by the Berlin
International Film Festival, offering a space for emerging filmmakers to
connect, learn, and collaborate. Talents Durban serves as its African
counterpart, providing a similar platform specifically tailored to the
continent’s unique filmmaking landscape.

DFMI Director, Magdalene Reddy, explains, “The Durban FilmMart
Institute remains committed to advancing African cinema through
strategic collaborations that expand international access to
professional networks, markets, and sustainable industry opportunities.
Talents Durban is central to this vision. Now in its 19th year of
partnership with Berlinale Talents,  this partnership helps to
contribute meaningfully to the long-term growth and sustainability of
the African film ecosystem.”

The 2026 edition reflects the diversity of African storytelling,
bringing together participants from 18 African countries. This year’s
selection process was highly competitive, receiving a record 551
applications. From these submissions, 26 participants and six film
critics were selected across fiction features, documentaries, short
films, episodic content, animation, and film criticism.

Selected participants will engage in an intensive programme of
project-oriented and hands-on professional development initiatives,
including Story Junction pitching sessions, masterclasses, mentorship
engagements, and one-on-one consultations with leading industry experts.

Mentors for the 2026 edition include _Akosua Adoma Owusu, Amine Hattou,
Bongi Ndaba, Comfort Arthur, Jihane Bougrine, Mayye Zayed, Nicole
Schafer, Oris Aigbokhaevbolo, Ramadan Suleman and Razanajaona
Ambinintsoa Luck._

A highlight of this year’s programme is the evolution of the Talent
Press stream through the introduction of a Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Digital
Newsroom model. Moving beyond the traditional workshop format, the
programme will simulate a live festival newsroom environment.

Acclaimed alumni Wilfred Okiche and Domoina Ratsara return as Section
Editors, mentoring and collaborating directly with a new generation of
emerging African critics serving as Festival Film Writers. The
initiative is further strengthened through partnerships with the
Encounters South African International Documentary Festival (04-14 June
2026) and the Durban International Film Festival (23 July – 2 August
2026), providing participants with real-world reporting experience, and
opportunities to publish critical writing from the forefront of African
cinema.

Talent Press is an initiative of Talents Durban in collaboration with
FIPRESCI. A new collaboration between the Cairo International Film
Festival (CIFF), the International Federation of Film Critics
(FIPRESCI), and the Durban FilmMart Institute was announced during
FIPRESCI’s annual reception. The partnership will see FIPRESCI select an
outstanding participant from the Talents Durban Press programme at
Durban FilmMart 2026 to receive an award presented by CIFF. The selected
critic will be invited to attend the Cairo International Film Festival,
cover the festival’s activities, and contribute to its English-language
daily publication. This initiative represents an important step in
strengthening film criticism across the African continent and creating
greater opportunities for emerging critical voices to engage with
international film culture and discourse.

Official 2026 Talents Durban Participants and Projects:

FICTION FEATURES

Kelvin Kagambo – Dogi Dogi (Tanzania)

Lawrencia Aphua Larbi-Amoah – Bare Feet (Ghana)

Meekaaeel Adam – The Violent Type (South Africa)

Mélanie K. ZAWADI – THE BASEMENT (DRC)

Russell Oru – The Things We Leave Behind (Nigeria)

Shandra Apondi – The Words I Do Not Have (Kenya)

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/south-africa-moves-to-extend-ev-incentives-to-battery-minerals-in-major-2026-automotive-policy-shift/

DOCUMENTARIES

Ahmed Shams Nagm Eldin – SABARY (Sudan)

Hussein Eddeb – The birth of Derna (Libya)

Junior Mozese – ABÉTI (DRC)

Michelle Simon – Rivers: Under Threat  (South Africa)

Ramaroson Razafimbelo Anatole – Fitampoha, the return of the king of
Menabe (Madagascar)

Sarra El Abed – Goodbye Party (Tunisia)

FICTION SHORTS

Daisy Masembe – Rukia (Uganda)

Ghazzal Abdullah – Facing the Sun (Egypt)

Moso Sematlane – Nightbirds (Lesotho)

Sarah Abena Adjei – Awake (Ghana)

Tendaiishe Chitima – The Last Tree on Kilimanjaro (Zimbabwe)

Xola Limba – Only We Remain (South Africa)

EPISODIC

Cheyi Okoaye – Cause, Effect & Maybe Consequences? (Nigeria)

Des Dlamini – Slightly Awkward (South Africa)

Rudo Furusa – Borrowed Skin (Botswana)

SOGOBA Hawa – The Eleventh Year (Mali)

ANIMATION

Jack Machiridza – All You Sheep (Zimbabwe)

Kirollos George – Alexandria forever (Egypt)

Pule Mohotsi –  Amandla (South Africa)

TALENT PRESS

Elijah Oluwanisola (Nigeria)

Hlumela Luvuno (South Africa)

NEYA Harouna (Burkina Faso)

Michelle Abuti (Kenya)

Domoina Ratsara (Madagascar) – Alumni

Wilfred Okiche (Nigeria) – Alumni

The Heads of Berlinale Talents, Nikola Joetze and Tobias Pausinger,
highlight their anticipation, stating: “At Berlinale Talents, we
regard Talents Durban as an essential creative partner and a space where
exceptional filmmakers and storytellers from across the African
continent continue to push boundaries, challenge form, and expand the
global cinematic imagination. Year after year, we are inspired by how
Talents Durban nurtures bold artistic voices that embody the spirit of
this year’s Berlinale Talents theme, Creating and Confusion,
transforming uncertainty into innovation and new narrative
possibilities.

Equally vital is the internationally renowned Durban Film Market itself,
which stands as one of the continent’s most significant platforms for
connecting emerging and established talent with industry opportunity. It
plays a decisive role in strengthening the creative ecosystem, while
underscoring South Africa’s position as a dynamic and indispensable
hub for the international film industry.”

As the premier film market in Africa, the 17th edition of the Durban
FilmMart, under the theme “Shifting Worlds: Turning Towards
Ourselves”. Inspired by the words of Ousmane Sembène, often referred
to as the “father of African cinema” who said, “Why be a sunflower
and turn toward the sun? I, myself, am the sun,” the 17th edition of
the Durban FilmMart will be the space for discussions that advance
alternative film funding pathways, revise models for distribution,
consider equitable co-production frameworks and create authentic
partnerships. DFM 2026 will encourage looking within to forge
relationships and design new strategies that will brace a world in flux
and endure the economic and social structures that are changing and
destabilising the film industry.

More information on this year’s theme can be found on the Durban
FilmMart Institute’s website, https://durbanfilmmart.co.za/ [1]

Delegate registration and programme details will be announced in due
course.

The 17th edition Durban FilmMart is funded by the Durban Film Office,
eThekwini Municipality, Ford Foundation, the National Film and Video
Foundation and IEFTF.

South Africa Moves To Extend EV Incentives To Battery Minerals In Major 2026 Automotive Policy Shift

Brand Spur
-
0
South Africa Moves To Extend EV Incentives To Battery Minerals In Major 2026 Automotive Policy Shift

South Africa has proposed expanding its automotive incentive programme to include key minerals used in electric vehicle (EV) battery production, a move aimed at strengthening local manufacturing, supporting regional supply chains and accelerating the country’s transition to electric mobility.

The proposed policy changes would allow producers of strategic battery materials such as lithium, graphite, cobalt, copper, iron and rare earth minerals to benefit from incentives currently available to the automotive industry. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to position South Africa as a leading participant in the global EV value chain as demand for cleaner transportation continues to grow.

The reforms come as governments and manufacturers worldwide adjust to tightening emissions standards, increasing adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, and intensifying competition from lower-cost vehicle imports. South African authorities are seeking to ensure that the country’s automotive sector remains competitive amid these global shifts.

Brandspur Brand News reports that the proposed amendments were published by the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) as part of an ongoing review of South Africa’s automotive industrial policy framework.

Under the proposal, qualifying battery materials sourced from member countries of the Southern African Customs Union and the Southern African Development Community would receive special recognition within the incentive programme. Half of the value of those materials would be treated as locally generated content, helping manufacturers qualify for production-linked benefits.

The policy review aligns with South Africa’s Automotive Master Plan 2035, which seeks to significantly increase annual vehicle production, strengthen local component manufacturing and deepen industrial participation across the automotive sector.

Also read: https://brandspurng.com/2026/06/10/airtime-lending-court-battle-seeks-to-protect-millions-of-nigerian-consumers-says-waspan/

South Africa’s automotive incentive framework currently supports manufacturers through a combination of production incentives, customs duty rebates, investment support measures and programmes designed to encourage large-scale vehicle assembly within the country.

Industry observers view the latest proposal as an effort to leverage Southern Africa’s vast mineral resources while capturing greater value from the fast-growing electric vehicle industry. The region is home to several minerals considered essential for battery manufacturing, creating opportunities for increased processing, refining and industrial development.

The move could also attract additional investment into mining, battery materials processing and vehicle manufacturing, helping to build stronger connections between the extractive sector and advanced industrial production.

Stakeholders and members of the public have been invited to submit comments on the proposed amendments over the next four weeks before any final policy decisions are taken.

If approved, the changes could strengthen South Africa’s position as a regional hub for electric vehicle production and battery-related manufacturing while supporting broader ambitions to modernise the automotive industry and expand participation in the global clean energy economy.

1...444546...3,971Page 45 of 3,971