Author: Gugu Lourie

In a major shift for South Africa’s digital governance, government departments can now procure IT services from providers other than the struggling State Information Technology Agency (SITA). The move comes after consultation with National Treasury and aims to address chronic system failures that have paralysed services from Home Affairs to Social Development. DA Spokesperson on Communications & Digital Technologies Tsholofelo Bodlani welcomed the reform: “For years, South Africans have suffered because SITA couldn’t keep systems online. This change means departments can finally choose competent providers, ending the endless ‘system offline’ excuses that delay services.” Under the new framework: Departments can procure…

Eskom has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Korea Plant Service & Engineering Co. to establish a strategic partnership focused on non-commercial research, technical consulting, and innovation. This agreement sets a framework for collaboration aimed at enhancing Eskom’s operational performance and supporting its long-term sustainability goals. Under the MoU, the two organizations will cooperate across six key areas: Strategic cooperation and information exchange on critical spare parts replenishment, including remanufacturing, reproducing, repairing, or retrofitting obsolete components. Identification and implementation of research projects supporting asset development, plant performance improvements, and asset management. Digitalization initiatives, such as artificial intelligence, IoT, and data analytics,…

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has reduced its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points, effective 30 May 2025, citing subdued inflation and global economic risks. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted 5-1 in favour of the cut, with one member advocating for a deeper 50bps reduction. Governor Lesetja Kganyago stated, “Given lower inflation and persistent global uncertainties, we see scope for modest monetary easing to support growth while maintaining price stability.” Global Economic Volatility Weighs on Growth Since the last MPC meeting, global markets have faced turbulence due to shifting US trade policies, fluctuating asset prices, and weaker growth projections. While…

In a major boost for South Africa’s green industrial future, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has been appointed as the sole financial adviser for the R31.5-billion SUISO coal-to-fertiliser project in Mpumalanga. This landmark initiative reinforces global confidence in South Africa’s ability to lead a just energy transition while creating jobs, strengthening food security, and building sustainable industries. SUISO is a pioneering South African company specialising in blue ammonia production at its state-of-the-art facility in Kriel, Mpumalanga. Established in 2019 by four local entrepreneurs, SUISO focuses on sustainable energy solutions, food security and responsible resource management. By transforming residuals into resources, the company is committed to shaping a greener future…

In the bustling townships of South Africa, where unemployment hovers at 32.9% and economic exclusion remains a daily reality, a groundbreaking digital platform is rewriting the rules of engagement. SwapVend, founded by Ashmita Singh, is not just another fintech solution – it’s a radical reimagining of how the informal economy can participate in the digital age. “SwapVend acts as a digital taxi, connecting people to opportunity and creating a space where their value is seen and exchanged on their own terms,” explains Singh, whose own journey from the townships of Chatsworth and Phoenix to social entrepreneur informs every aspect of…

The Volvo EX30 continues to dominate South Africa’s premium EV market, while the newly launched EX90 elevates luxury electric driving. With strong demand for sustainable mobility, Volvo Car South Africa reported impressive sales figures for the first four months of 2025. Volvo’s Electric Vehicle Sales Performance Between January and April 2025, Volvo delivered 114 electric vehicles to South African customers. Leading the charge was the EX30, with 48 units sold, reinforcing its status as the country’s favourite premium EV. The EX90, Volvo’s flagship electric SUV, made a strong debut with 30 units sold, securing fifth place in SA’s top-selling EV rankings. The XC40 and C40 Recharge models also performed well, combining for 36 sales, further solidifying…

TooMuchWifi has secured a major FDI/DFI Investment to drive affordable high-speed internet in South Africa. Three new investors—British International Investment (BII), Infra Impact Investment Managers, and IDF Capital—have shown strong confidence in South Africa’s tech sector by backing high-growth internet provider TooMuchWifi. This significant investment will accelerate the startup’s expansion into underserved communities, enabling widespread digital inclusion through affordable, reliable internet access. The move aligns with a resurgence in foreign direct investment (FDI) into South Africa. Earlier this year, the country jumped to 7th place on Kearney’s FDI Confidence Index, up from 17th in 2023, signaling growing global investor trust. TooMuchWifi is a network operator, ISP, and Air…

Sizekhaya Holdings has been granted the Fourth National Lottery and Sports Pools licence by South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition. The licence, valid for eight years, is set to commence by 1 June 2026, marking a significant milestone for the consortium. Goldrush Group, in which the company holds a 59.4% stake, is a 50% shareholder in Sizekhaya. However, following regulatory requirements, Sizekhaya will issue shares to a government entity, reducing Goldrush’s stake to 40%. As the new operator, Sizekhaya will oversee lottery ticket sales, prize payouts, and contributions to the National Lotteries Distribution Trust Fund (NLDTF): ensuring funds support good causes across South Africa. The selection of Sizekhaya – meaning “We are coming home” – reflects the…

The parliamentary uproar over Minister Solly Malatsi’s proposed policy shift on B-BBEE in the ICT sector has exposed a painful truth: South Africa’s mobile industry equity deals have largely failed to achieve meaningful black economic empowerment. While some politicians – acting along party lines – rail against potential changes to black economic empowerment equity requirements, evidence shows that existing deals have become little more than compliance exercises. Khusela Diko, chair of Parliament’s communications and digital technology committee, is a senior member of the majority party in the Government of National Unity (GNU), the African National Congress, while Minister Malatsi belongs…

Barloworld Equipment has invested R34 million in cutting-edge technology to enhance efficiency at its Barloworld Rebuild Centre (BRC), one of only a few Caterpillar-certified Component Rebuild Centres (CRCs) globally. The upgrade includes robotic thermal arc spraying and CNC machining, enabling the refurbishment of critical components like cylinder blocks, final drives, spindles, wheels, and hydraulic parts. Thermal arc spraying is ideal for high-friction applications, providing a durable, wear-resistant coating that extends machinery lifespan. “This investment ensures cost-effective repairs, faster turnaround times, and a wider range of remanufactured components for our customers,” said Mbali Tshitenge, Executive: Aftermarket at Barloworld Equipment Southern Africa. The BRC features state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and test stations, ensuring rebuilt parts meet Caterpillar’s strict…