Author: Gugu Lourie

In the heart of South Africa’s most vibrant township, Shovebike is transforming last-mile delivery with sustainable e-mobility, blockchain incentives, and grassroots empowerment. Founded by Zakhele Mhlanga—whose Zulu name means “build it yourself” – this innovative startup merges tradition and tech, proving that green transport can be both affordable and scalable. A Vision for Sustainable Mobility Shovebike’s name is a fusion of Nguni and English: “Shov” (pedaling) “e” (electric) “Bike” (their vehicle of change) “Our mission is to make cycling – especially e-mobility – a viable, democratic transport solution, not just a lifestyle,” says Mhlanga. “Soweto is awakening to green mobility, and our community isn’t just adopting it—they’re leading it.” Global…

South African-founded food delivery platform Spaza Eats has unveiled Spaza Parcel, a new service that empowers individuals and businesses to send and receive parcels effortlessly. Whether it’s a small business fulfilling orders or someone sending a package to family, Spaza Parcel offers reliable, township-friendly delivery at your fingertips. “Spaza Parcel puts delivery power into the hands of everyday South Africans,” said the company. Key Highlights:  Nationwide Expansion Plans – Currently available in Gauteng, with plans to scale across South Africa soon.  Township-First Approach – Designed to support informal traders, families, and small businesses. Part of a Larger Ecosystem – Spaza Eats is building a digital township ecosystem for…

The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) has alerted the public about a fraudulent website (www.viviersbrokers.com) impersonating Viviers Brokers CC (FSP 2246). The scam offers fake investment opportunities, including retirement annuities, unit trusts, and a trading platform for forex, commodities, and indices. Key Red Flags: Viviers Brokers confirmed they do NOT own a website or use one for marketing. The site’s operators are not FSCA-authorised to provide financial services. Scam tactics include: Promising unrealistic returns Pressuring victims with urgency Demanding upfront payments Offering vague investment details How to Verify Legitimate Providers: Call FSCA: 0800 110 443 (toll-free) Check authorised entities: FSCA Regulated Entities List FAIS Act Authorised FSPs Why This Matters: South Africans lose millions…

The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) has issued a public warning about a scammer impersonating Mr. Luzuko Nomjana, a representative of Prescient Investment Management (Pty) Ltd (FSP No. 612). Key Details of the Scam: The fraudster is using Mr. Nomjana’s name and photo on WhatsApp to deceive victims. A confirmed ABSA bank account (9384035403) is linked to the scam. Prescient’s Compliance Officer, Ms. Nazley Herandien, confirmed they were alerted by a victim who was defrauded. How to Protect Yourself: Verify financial service providers by contacting the FSCA: Toll-Free: 0800 110 443 Online Search: Check authorised FSPs here | FAIS Act authorised providers (Replace with actual links) Be cautious of unsolicited investment offers on WhatsApp, social media, or messaging platforms.…

Eskom has reported a decrease in theft and vandalism of critical electricity infrastructure, including mini-substations, transformers, and high-voltage pylons, compared to the previous year. However, these criminal acts remain a severe threat to South Africa’s power stability and public safety. Recent Arrests and Financial Impact A recent intelligence-driven operation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) led to the arrest of six suspects found with stolen Eskom equipment worth R1.5 million. The suspects appeared in the Ngwelezane Magistrate’s Court on 7 April 2025. From April 2024 to February 2025, infrastructure-related crimes cost Eskom R221 million, down from R271 million in the same period the previous year.…

How Smart Technology is Transforming Air Travel The air transport industry is undergoing its most significant transformation since the rise of the internet in the early 2000s. With passenger numbers expected to double by 2043 – reaching 7.9 billion travelers annually -airports face a critical challenge: how to handle this surge without unlimited space or resources. In a white paper titled ‘Airports of the Future’, SITA, a leading air transport technology specialist, highlights that while demand is skyrocketing, airports cannot expand at the same rate. Instead, they must optimize operations, reduce friction, and speed up passenger journeys: all while embracing cutting-edge technology. The Challenge: More Passengers,…

The latest figures hint at a market in transition—what’s driving the changes in new and used car sales? Following a strong performance in January 2025, the new and used car industries have maintained momentum throughout February. As the shortest month of the year, minor month-on-month (MoM) decreases are to be expected, but year-on-year increases in both segments suggest renewed consumer confidence and strong sales for the year ahead. The latest data from AutoTrader, South Africa’s most trusted motoring marketplace, reflects a solid performance in the used car industry. Even though February typically has fewer selling days than other months (and February…

The smartphone market has reached a new pinnacle with the arrival of the Huawei Mate XT | ULTIMATE DESIGN in South Africa. Priced at a staggering R69,999, this revolutionary tri-fold device isn’t just a phone: it’s a statement. But with such an eye-watering price tag, one question lingers: Is this the most expensive smartphone ever sold in South Africa? A New Era of Foldable Innovation Huawei has pushed boundaries yet again with the Mate XT, the world’s first tri-fold smartphone. When fully unfolded, it transforms into a 10.2-inch tablet, yet folds down to a compact size that fits comfortably in your pocket. The engineering…

Owning a Mercedes-Benz is knowing that every journey comes with something more. It’s that quiet confidence when you start the engine. It’s that reassurance that, no matter where the road leads, you’re backed by the very best. But what if that feeling didn’t stop with the drive itself? Mercedes-Benz South Africa is proud to introduce the all-new PremiumDrive Exclusive Care service and maintenance plan, offering a comprehensive 7-year/140,000 km contract that ensures peace of mind and unrivalled convenience for owners. A New Era in Service Coverage We are thrilled to launch our new PremiumDrive Exclusive Care service and maintenance plan. This 7-year/140,000 km service and maintenance contract is…

The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) is alerting the public about an individual falsely claiming to represent Compsure Insurance Consultants (Pty) Ltd (FSP No. 47507). The scammer, identifying himself as Mr. Makhanya (073 809 6097), has been contacting people to promote Forex trading, using a copy of Compsure’s license to appear legitimate. Compsure’s Compliance Officer, Mr. Lourens De Jongh, confirmed that Mr. Makhanya has no association with the company and was never authorized to act on its behalf. The FSCA urges the public to verify financial service providers before engaging by: Calling 0800 110 443 (toll-free) Checking authorized providers online via FSCA’s website Confirming FAIS Act registration here Beware of rising scams—always double-check…