
AI won’t replace market research. But it will expose weak strategy
Much of the broader conversation around AI in market research assumes conditions that do not consistently exist across many African markets, writes Soyinka Witness.
PUBLIC RELATIONS
By our African Marketing Confederation News Team | 2025
Partnership with DNA Brand Architects aligns with bank’s ‘commitment to impactful communication and meaningful engagement’.
South African-based banking group Nedbank has appointed DNA Brand Architects as its new consumer public relations agency following a multi-agency pitching process.
Photo: Nedbank
This new partnership aligns with Nedbank’s commitment to impactful communication and meaningful engagement with South African consumers, the bank says in a press release.
“We were seeking a partner that could not only understand our strategic goals but also connect authentically with our diverse client base,” notes Khensani Nobanda, Group Executive of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Nedbank.
“DNA stood out for their bold ideas, exceptional media relationships and proven success in delivering results for some of South Africa’s most iconic brands. Their values and capabilities align perfectly with what we are looking for in a consumer PR agency. We are also proud to collaborate with a 100% black-owned agency, furthering our commitment to empowerment and transformation.”
According to Nobanda, Nedbank’s search for a PR partner focused on finding an agency with a clear understanding of the South African consumer landscape and the proven ability to deliver integrated campaigns that captivate consumers.
Decisive factors in PR agency’s selection
DNA’s expertise in media relations, influencer marketing and experiential brand activations – coupled with its ability to leverage cultural insights to achieve results – were decisive factors in its selection.
The agency’s accolades include four consecutive PRISM Agency of the Year titles and recognition as South Africa’s Most Admired PR Agency on three occasions.
Comments Sylvester Chauke, CEO of DNA Brand Architects: “Nedbank is an exceptional brand known for its excellence and innovation. Given our expertise in crafting campaigns that resonate deeply with audiences, we look forward to further strengthening Nedbank’s good connections with its existing and prospective clients, and showcasing its continued relevance in an ever-changing market.”
Nedbank is one of South Africa’s biggest banks. It operates in five countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), through subsidiaries and banks in Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, eSwatini and Zimbabwe.
In Central and West Africa, it has a strategic alliance with Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI) and representative offices in Angola and Kenya.

Much of the broader conversation around AI in market research assumes conditions that do not consistently exist across many African markets, writes Soyinka Witness.

Consumers are asking AI which retailer offers the best deal, comparing products or researching brands before visiting a website or store.

Kenya Ports Authority is working to improve cargo flow and efficiency to support growing trade volumes at vital import-export gateway.

African consumers want ethical, responsible choices. Therefore, brand growth hinges on making sustainable choices affordable and relevant.

Examining the tech-hype trap and why human judgement, not technology, will pave the way to competitive advantage in Africa.

Strategic senior appointment comes at a time when the local advertising-intelligence landscape is entering a period of significant change.

Ghana has shifted decisively into consumer-led recovery, with Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon following more gradually.

AMC President discusses the upcoming conference’s ‘full circle’ and the gathering’s role in navigating marketing’s paradigm shift.

Africa’s retail future may be led not by size, but by those who most effectively remove the friction between customer intent and transaction.

Out-of-home brand activation above Sunset Boulevard draws attention to a new science-fiction thriller film about a family stuck in a house.

She comes to Havas as a business leader with more than 20 years of expertise across marketing, advertising, transformation and growth.