Author: Gugu Lourie
South African AgriTech startup Khula has raised an impressive R126 million from its existing investors, including Absa Bank, AECI, E Squared, and PepsiCo’s Kgodiso Fund. The round also saw contributions from Khula’s founders, Karidas Tshintsholo and Matthew Piper, with E Squared Investments leading the charge as the first institutional backer of the startup. AgriTech, or agricultural technology, refers to innovations that enhance efficiency and productivity across the farming industry. This includes digital platforms, smart farming tools, and data-driven solutions aimed at solving critical challenges in agriculture. Khula has been at the forefront of this sector, developing an ecosystem that empowers…
A newly promulgated by-law regulating the use of private CCTV cameras in Johannesburg has been criticized as a major setback for crime-fighting efforts by residents. The Sunday Times reported that the by-law reinforces existing legislation that prohibits residents from posting their CCTV footage online. According to the publication, the regulation states that “no data or information collected through a CCTV camera shall be disclosed or shared with any person not authorised to have access to such data” and that “all CCTV camera footage or imagery of captured criminal incidents that require further investigation, shall be kept confidential.” Crime Watch presenter…
Eskom confirms that loadshedding remains suspended, supported by a stable power system and healthy emergency reserves. The utility remains on track to replenish reserves ahead of the next business week. Significant diesel savings Since 1 April 2024, Eskom has saved R16.69 billion in diesel costs—a 55.7% reduction compared to the R29.98 billion spent during the same period last year. The suspension of loadshedding for 325 days (7,871 hours) has drastically improved electricity availability, which now stands at 98%, compared to just 9.6% last year. Despite these gains, generation capacity remains tight, with Eskom maintaining high levels of planned maintenance, averaging…
The Mineworkers Investment Company (MIC) has announced that its Chief Executive Officer, Mary Bomela, will step down from her role on 28 February 2025, marking the end of a 15-year tenure that transformed the organisation. Under Bomela’s leadership, MIC experienced remarkable growth, including one of its strongest financial performances in the 2023/24 financial year. During her tenure, Net Asset Value surged from R2.8 billion to R7.8 billion, and the company successfully executed numerous transactions. Over the past three years alone, MIC has deployed R2 billion into new investments, strengthening its presence in technology, financial services, and consumer goods. In the…
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has filed a Parliamentary Ethics Complaint against Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni MP, after she allegedly blocked DA MPs from conducting an oversight visit to the Directorate for Conventional Arms Control (DCAC). The visit, led by DA NCOP Member on Security & Justice, Nicholas Gotsell MP, alongside Chris Hattingh MP, was in response to concerns raised in the Joint Standing Committee on Defence (JSCD). Industry stakeholders had flagged delays in permit approvals and other administrative failures, which are stalling an industry worth billions. However, upon their arrival, Acting DCAC Director Peter Mashaba, following telephonic instructions…
The rapidly developing Western Cape town of Hartenbos and the greater Garden Route region are set to welcome an exciting new shopping destination: Garden Walk, a 20,000sqm retail and lifestyle centre. The new shopping centre is scheduled to open in April 2026 with a carefully curated tenant mix, including specially selected grocery stores, a tailored mix of upmarket lifestyle stores and delicious dining experiences Mossel Bay, which was recently named a top holiday destination for 2025, saw its local municipality play a key role in making this development possible by creating a business-friendly environment under strong leadership. The lead developers,…
Waxd Solution, in partnership with Botransa, has successfully introduced a cashless payment system for minibus taxis in Swartruggens, near Rustenburg. By leveraging its Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) system, Waxd has delivered a secure and efficient digital payment solution that benefits all stakeholders. “Going cashless is a crucial step in modernising our transport system and ensuring the safety of both drivers and commuters,” explains Anthony Stewart, Group CEO of Waxd. “Our cashless system ensures swift, secure, and seamless transactions, allowing drivers to focus on what truly matters. Phase 1 of this particular project has been running since November 2024, and we…
The new Volvo ES90 sets a benchmark for electric performance, featuring cutting-edge 800-volt technology that enables rapid charging and extended driving range. With the ability to add 300 kilometres in just 10 minutes and a total range of up to 700 kilometres, it’s the most efficient electric Volvo to date. The ES90 debuts Volvo’s 800V system, bringing faster charging, improved performance, and enhanced efficiency. Compared to conventional 400V systems, it generates less heat and allows ultra-fast charging up to 350kW without straining the battery. Lighter e-motors and components further reduce weight, optimizing efficiency, acceleration, and range. “Our 800V technology marks…
University life is a time of newfound independence, late-night study sessions, a buzzing social life, and the ever-present challenge of managing finances. But where do South African students really spend their money? The Varsity Vibe 2024 Student Spend Survey, based on 18,819 responses, sheds light on student spending habits, revealing the financial pressures young adults face. The reality of student expenses Many students underestimate the true cost of living in South Africa, according to Varsity Vibe. Moving out of home for the first time and handling their own shopping presents a steep financial learning curve. Survey respondents expressed surprise at…
The Mayor of Tshwane is set to table an adjustment budget tomorrow, proposing an additional R315 million for so-called watchman services, just days after revelations surfaced about a potential business link between ANC Deputy Mayor Eugene Modise and one of the security companies contracted by the city. “This is a blatant attempt to entrench wasteful spending while ignoring smarter, more effective security solutions,” said Ald Cilliers Brink, DA Tshwane Caucus Leader. The DA has long advocated for modern security measures such as CCTV cameras, motion detectors, and mobile armed response units—proven to be more effective and cost-efficient than relying on…