Author: Staff Writer

The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) is embroiled in an R800 million funding scandal after approving a contentious bailout for Siyanda-Bakgatla Platinum Mine (SBM), despite internal reports questioning the mine’s financial distress claims. The Sunday Times reported that Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has halted the deal, demanding an investigation into the controversial decision. Dubious Bailout: Jobs Saved or Shareholder Gains? The UIF had agreed to provide R807 million to save 5,702 jobs at SBM’s Limpopo mine, later revised to R736 million for 5,200 workers. However, leaked documents reveal the fund’s own analysts flagged that SBM was not in financial trouble. “Acting in the best interest of workers, and as the custodian of the workers’ funds,…

A fiery ANC caucus meeting has exposed deep divisions over the party’s alliance with the DA in the Government of National Unity (GNU), with over 100 MPs demanding an immediate breakup, according to Sunday Times sources. Frustrated ANC legislators confronted Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula at a tense Johannesburg meeting, slamming the DA’s repeated challenges to key policies—including the budget and employment equity laws—as proof of bad faith. “They’ve Defined Themselves Out of GNU” – Ramaphosa MPs cited President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent remarks that the DA, by rejecting two budget versions, had “defined itself out of the GNU.” One insider fumed: “They take NHI to court, fight Bela, block…

South Africa is set to invest R60 billion in its nuclear build programme, including the acquisition of mini nuclear reactors, as the government pushes forward with its energy transition plans. Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa confirmed the move, stating that the country will seek expertise from global leaders in nuclear technology, including Russia and China. Nuclear Power Now Official Policy Ramokgopa told Sunday Times’ Business Times that nuclear energy is now a key government policy, following the successful 20-year extension of Koeberg’s Unit 1—adding to its 40 years of safe operation. *“That we have been able to successfully get long-term operation extension of Koeberg’s unit 1…

The .za Domain Name Authority (.zadna), in partnership with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) and the South African Internet Governance multistakeholder committee, will host the 2025 South African Internet Governance Forum (ZAIGF) from 7 to 8 May 2025 at the Durban University of Technology in KwaZulu-Natal. zadna is a not-for-profit company established in terms of section 59 of the Electronic Communications and Transaction Act, 2002 (Act 25 of 2002). Its mandate is to regulate the .za namespace and ensure its efficient use, management, and administration. Under the theme “Reviewing South Africa’s Internet Governance Progress in the Context…

Openserve, South Africa’s leading wholesale connectivity provider and a Telkom Group company, is proud to demonstrate the strength and scalability of its network infrastructure with a live showcase of Gigabit-speed fibre at Comic Con Africa 2025 in Cape Town. As part of the Telkom VS Gaming arena, one of the event’s most high-energy zones, Openserve is powering seamless, ultra-fast connectivity for high-stakes gaming competitions, delivering speeds of up to 1000Mbps and showcasing the low-latency performance critical to competitive play. This demonstration highlights not only Openserve’s technical capabilities, but also the future-ready infrastructure that supports South Africa’s evolving digital needs across…

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) today announced that several of its major airports have received the Airports Council International (ACI) Public Health and Safety Readiness accreditation for the 2024/25 financial period. This prestigious recognition evaluates airports’ compliance with global public health and safety standards, ensuring they are prepared to implement industry-leading measures in times of uncertainty. As vital transport hubs, airports face high risks from transmissible diseases, making comprehensive health protocols essential. In early 2024, ACSA introduced a structured framework to guide its airports through the accreditation process, supporting its long-term goal of having all facilities accredited by 2028/29. The…

In a dynamic shift that places South Africa at the forefront of global call centre AI innovation, two homegrown technology pioneers, Saigen and Callbi, are to enable a seamless switch between languages mid-conversation across South Africa’s most commonly spoken languages, including isiZulu, Sesotho, Setswana, Afrikaans and English. For South African businesses operating in a uniquely multilingual society, there is a real need to serve customers across a wide range of languages, dialects, and cultural nuances. Traditional speech analytics tools – often built in and for monolingual English markets – simply fall short. “Calls may begin in English, but they don’t always stay there,”…

The holiday season, is a time marked by family gatherings, travel, feasts, and often, a bit of over-indulgence. In fact, data from FNB recently revealed that most South Africans, in the lead-up to and during the Easter period, tend to spend more on general shopping, flights, accommodation, home DIY, restaurants, and clothing and apparel. But the numbers can add up quickly and, when the celebrations wind down, the reality of overspending can hit hard. “Reality (after a heightened period of shopping and spending) can feel like a financial hangover. When the excitement of the season wears off, you might ask…

April in South Africa is a month filled with public holidays, extended weekends, and social gatherings—creating a prime opportunity for illicit alcohol to enter the market. The Drinks Federation of South Africa (DF-SA) is urging retailers and traders to prioritize responsibility, protect consumers, and uphold the integrity of the alcohol industry. A Time for Celebration and Responsibility “April’s public holidays and long weekends are not only a time of celebration, but also a time to reflect on the role we play in safeguarding our communities,” says the DF-SA. With festivities on the rise, retailers and traders must ensure only legitimate, safe products reach consumers to maintain trust…

South Africa faces a last-minute legal showdown over the controversial VAT hike, with Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s attempt to scrap the increase now in doubt just days before its implementation. The Sunday Times reports that confusion reigns as the Democratic Alliance (DA) argues only Parliament—not the minister—can reverse the tax change. In a dramatic move, Godongwana announced Wednesday that the 0.5% VAT increase set for this week would be canceled. However, the DA challenged this in court, filing an affidavit stating: “The DA and Parliament support that position. It is the only plausible reading of section 7(4) of the VAT Act.” The dispute…

President Cyril Ramaphosa and US President Donald Trump have taken steps to mend strained diplomatic relations between South Africa and the United States. According to The Sunday Times, the two leaders agreed during a recent phone call to meet in person within the next three months, possibly on the sidelines of an upcoming US-Africa summit. The diplomatic rift began after Trump criticized South Africa’s land reform policies, particularly the Expropriation Act, claiming “terrible things” were happening in the country. He also offered Afrikaner farmers refuge in the US, alleging they were being forced off their land. Tensions escalated further when the…

Huawei hosted an inspiring celebration for young women and future leaders in ICT at the Huawei Campus in Johannesburg. The event was held in support of the International Telecommunications Union’s (ITU) global campaign for International Girls in ICT Day 2025 and the UN Women’s African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI). It brought together high-level women executives, industry leaders, and top-performing students from AGCCI and the Huawei Graduate Programme. Under the theme “Shaping the future, one connection at a time”, the event aims to create a supportive community for young women in STEM by connecting them with inspiring role models and…

 NTT DATA, a global leader in digital business and technology services, today announced Hani Nofal’s appointment as Regional Head for Technology Solutions, Middle East and Africa (MEA), effective May 1, 2025. In this strategic leadership role, Nofal will drive NTT DATA’s Technology Solutions growth in the MEA region, collaborating with local teams to define and implement a growth strategy aligned with global objectives. “We are thrilled to welcome Hani to the NTT DATA family,” said Alan Turnley-Jones, CEO of NTT DATA for Middle East and Africa. “His exceptional leadership in building high-performance teams, extensive expertise in digital, security, cloud, and…

Global artificial intelligence (AI) technology group 4Sight Holdings today announced its acquisition of XFour, a fast-growing human resource (HR) and payroll technology services provider, in a deal worth over R40 million. Founded in 2017 by Clark Fourie, Jaco Smit and Shaun O’Reilly, XFour is a South African business specialising in integrating and optimising HR and payroll systems in 20 countries across Africa.  XFour is a Sage Platinum HR & Payroll Business Partner, recognised in the market for its deep expertise in business process automation and digital transformation.  “XFour brings a wealth of young and dynamic talent, innovation, and proven specialisation…

For over 30 years, McDonald’s South Africa has been more than just a restaurant business it has been a consistent force for good, creating thousands of employment opportunities and investing in the growth of its people. The brand’s long-standing legacy is anchored in job creation, empowerment, and developing future leaders. This commitment was recently brought to life through a ground-breaking initiative in partnership with Hamburger University (HU) and UCT’s Graduate School of Business. In 2024, McDonald’s introduced the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme, opening the door for corporate employees to access two accredited qualifications: the Postgraduate Diploma in Management…

Flutterwave, Africa’s payments technology company, recently unveiled the Flutterwave Accelerate Workshop, a two-day virtual coaching programme designed to equip young Africans with practical skills for success in the tech industry.  The workshop targets university students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals, providing direct access to industry expertise in four high-demand career paths: Data privacy and Cybersecurity, Design, Marketing, and Product Management. Sessions will be led by accomplished tech professionals from within and beyond Flutterwave, including Ted Oladele, CEO of Mira and former VP of Design & Product at Flutterwave; Noel Ozoemena, Senior Manager of Branding and Storytelling; Nujinim Egwegbete-Odukwu, Head of…

A legal battle is brewing between Trade, Industry & Competition Minister Parks Tau and bidders vying for South Africa’s lucrative R180bn national lottery licence, after Tau rejected a proposed court order to fast-track the process. The dispute stems from Tau’s decision to pause awarding the permanent eight-year licence, opting instead for a 12-month temporary licence, a move critics claim unfairly benefits the current operator, Ithuba Holdings. Eighteen bidders initially competed, with eight shortlisted after presenting to the National Lotteries Commission (NLC). Minister’s Controversial Move Sparks Outrage Bidders were stunned when Tau halted the permanent licence process, extending bid validity and issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for…

A flying trapeze, a Big Five game reserve, Zulu-inspired décor, and a surf school will dazzle guests at South Africa’s first Club Med, opening in July 2026, The Sunday Times reported. The R2bn luxury beach resort, rising on a former sugar-cane plantation in Tinley Manor (KZN’s north coast), is now a hive of construction. After years of searching, French-owned Club Med chose this prime location for its debut upmarket SA resort. While exact prices remain undisclosed, bookings will open in October. Globally, a week’s stay for a family of four at Club Med averages between R75,000 and R380,000. Olivier Perillat-Piratoine, Club Med…

In a surprising move amid strained South Africa-US relations, President Cyril Ramaphosa is reportedly considering four white Afrikaners – including former negotiator Roelf Meyer – for the ambassador role, while retaining Mcebisi Jonas as special envoy. According to The Sunday Times, government sources indicate Meyer – Ramaphosa’s counterpart in the 1990s Codesa talks – is a top contender. The pair, dubbed “R&R,” played a pivotal role in South Africa’s democratic transition and were known for their close rapport. Other potential candidates include Marthinus van Schalkwyk, ex-leader of the National Party (NP), who later joined the ANC and served as tourism minister…

– Huawei South Africa has launched its leading smart warehouse solution in Johannesburg. This strategic investment has the potential to revolutionise logistics operations in Africa. The newly opened 14,000 square meter facility boasts advanced technologies that boost efficiency, security and sustainable practices – marking a major step forward for the warehousing industry. Huawei is transforming Africa’s logistics sector by introducing intelligent systems to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. This smart warehouse represents the future of the industry and showcases Huawei’s commitment to innovation in Africa. Will Meng, CEO of Huawei South Africa, spoke to the strategic vision for the industry,…

Clicks Group reports strong growth in loyalty membership, retail turnover, and sustainability initiatives in the six months to end-February 2025. Clicks ClubCard Loyalty Programme Soars Clicks ClubCard has grown to 12.1 million active members, adding over 1 million new members in the past year. The loyalty program now drives 81.6% of Clicks’ sales, with members earning R438 million in cashback over six months. Retail Turnover Up 6.4% The Clicks Group reported a 6.2% increase in group turnover, reaching R23.2 billion for the six months ending February 2025. Retail turnover, including Clicks, The Body Shop, M-Kem, and Sorbet, rose by 6.4%, with 5.4% comparable store growth (excluding leap year effects). Excluding…

The Sunday Times reports the Cape Winelands has become South Africa’s fastest-growing millionaire hotspot, with centimillionaire residents nearly doubling in the past decade, according to the World’s Wealthiest Cities Report 2025. Key Findings Wealth Boom: The Winelands (Stellenbosch/Franschhoek/Paarl) now host 18 centimillionaires ($100M+ net worth), up from 10 in 2015 Cape Town Dominance: The Mother City leads with 34 centimillionaires, up from 28 last year Jo’Burg Decline: Gauteng continues losing wealthy residents to coastal regions Why the Winelands? Luxury Estates: Exclusive developments attract global ultra-high-net-worth individuals Vineyard Lifestyle: Wealthy owners increasingly retire to their wine farms Education Hub: Top schools + Stellenbosch University appeal to affluent families SA’s Winelands Billionaire…

The ANC appears ready to abandon its proposed 0.5% VAT increase following fierce opposition from its Government of National Unity (GNU) partners, including the DA, The Sunday Times can reveal. Budget U-Turn: Key Details Original Plan: Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana initially proposed a 2% VAT hike in February, later reduced to two 0.5% increases over two years. GNU Resistance: The DA and other parties refused to support any VAT rise, forcing the ANC to reconsider. May 1 Deadline: Businesses had already begun invoicing at the new 15.5% rate, but the hike may now be scrapped entirely. R13.5bn Budget Gap: Dropping the tax increase leaves a major revenue shortfall, pushing Treasury to find alternatives. Why This…

A preliminary report by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has implicated Road Accident Fund (RAF) CEO Collins Letsoalo in alleged wrongdoing involving a R79 million lease deal for the fund’s Johannesburg offices. The investigation, initiated under a 2021 presidential proclamation, follows a whistleblower’s complaint to the Public Protector, accusing Letsoalo of overturning bid committee decisions to favor Mowana Properties, a losing bidder that ultimately secured the five-year contract. Key Findings from the SIU Report Whistleblower’s Claims Confirmed: The SIU’s preliminary findings support allegations of tender manipulation in leasing, cleaning, security, and legal services. Letsoalo’s Defense: The RAF CEO claims Mowana Properties—a Government Employees Pension Fund…

The Huawei Intelligent Finance Summit (HiFS) Sub-Saharan Africa 2025 has paved a new path for the digital transformation of Africa’s financial services industries (FSI). Huawei shared how its “Mobile First, Resilience Empowers AI-infused Finance” strategies would strengthen service resilience and promote digital innovation for the FSIs on the continent. In his opening address titled “In Africa, for Africa, Technology Inclusion Booming Financial Inclusion”, Victor Guo, President of Huawei Sub-Saharan Africa Enterprise Business, said that greater technology integration is driving financial inclusion on the continent. He observed that increased economic activity and smartphone adoption have enhanced banking services in Africa. Through…