Author: Staff Writer

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…

In a dramatic trade policy shift, former President Donald Trump declared economic war on China while extending an olive branch to other nations. The Guardian reported that effective immediately, Chinese imports will face a crushing 125% tariff, a fivefold increase from previous levels, while most other countries get a 90-day reprieve with reduced 10% duties. “When China punches America, we punch back harder—125% harder,” declared White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, framing the move as retaliation for Beijing’s “disrespect of global markets.” The announcement sent stocks skyrocketing, with the S&P 500 up 5.6% and the Nasdaq leaping 8% as investors cheered…

Cell C today announced that it wass aware that data compromised in the recent cybersecurity incident has been unlawfully disclosed by RansomHouse, the threat actor claiming responsibility. This follows a previously reported incident involving unauthorised access to unstructured data in some parts of our IT environment. “We deeply regret this development and the concern it may cause among our employees, customers, partners, and stakeholders at large,” Cell C said in a statement. “As part of our commitment to safeguarding the interests of our stakeholders and full transparency, Cell C has set up an Information Hub, www.worldofcellc.co.za/information-hub, where stakeholders can access…

Huawei recently hosted the prestigious Regional Finals of its 2024/2025 ICT Competition and Summit at Huawei Office Park in Johannesburg, bringing together outstanding technology talent, educators, and policy makers from across Sub-Saharan Africa in a celebration of digital innovation excellence. The event was attended by the winning student teams, their instructors, stakeholders from academic institutions across the region, and key government partners, including Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, South African Minister of Higher Education and Training, who delivered the keynote address. “Digital skills are one of the most critical skills that are desperately required in Africa and governments cannot achieve this without…

Altron, a JSE listed, proudly South African, technology company, is celebrating 60 years of innovation by showcasing the story of Johannesburg through a new lens. In collaboration with historian Michael Charton, author of “My Father’s Coat” and other historic narratives, Altron will bring to life Johannesburg’s story, highlighting its role in South Africa’s industrialisation and paying tribute to the business leaders and organisations who helped shape its growth. This powerful narrative that will be performed to audiences throughout April, is set to inspire optimism around the city’s revival. Altron’s Chief Executive Officer, Werner Kapp says: “Commemorating our 60th anniversary by…

Disney+ has unveiled an exciting lineup of titles set to premiere in South Africa in 2025. Titles include FX’s highly anticipated “Alien: Earth,” the new limited series FX’s “Dying for Sex” starring Michelle Williams and Jenny Slate, star-studded UK Original “The Stolen Girl”- a five-part psychological drama starring Denise Gough, Holliday Grainger and Ambika Mod, alongside Lucasfilm’s “Andor” season 2 returning for its long-awaited conclusion, and Searchlight Pictures’ Award-winning “A Real Pain”. Not to mention critically acclaimed and multiple Emmy® award-winning series returning including FX’s “The Bear”, “Only Murders in the Building” and the latest season of “The Simpsons” now streaming exclusively on Disney+ in South Africa. Disney+…

The FNB App Academy, a transformative nine-week online tech programme, kicks off on 22 April 2025, offering young South Africans free access to coding skills, industry mentorship, and career-building opportunities. With classes held twice a week, the academy equips participants with hands-on experience to thrive in the digital economy. Bridging the skills pap in South Africa In a country where youth unemployment remains a critical challenge, the FNB App Academy provides a lifeline by delivering cutting-edge digital training at no cost. Since its launch, the initiative has empowered over 17,000 young people across South Africa and the continent, helping them secure jobs or start their own tech ventures.…

Africa’s gaming industry is poised for a breakthrough. As one of the fastest-growing creative sectors on the continent, game development has the power to drive innovation, create jobs, and bring African storytelling to the global stage. But to fully unlock this potential, developers need resources, mentorship, and international connections. That’s where GamesConnect AFRICA steps in. What Is GamesConnect AFRICA? More than just an initiative, GamesConnect AFRICA is a movement shaping the future of gaming in Africa. It empowers mid-sized studios with the tools to scale, improve game quality, and compete globally. The programme also fosters international collaborations, co-productions, and knowledge-sharing – ensuring African…

Core Group, South Africa’s distributor of tech products, has announced a new distribution partnership with Microsoft to bring its lineup of Surface hardware to South African resellers. Through this collaboration, businesses will be afforded seamless access to the world-class portfolio, providing a perfect blend of hardware and software designed for the modern workplace. With Microsoft Surface, South African businesses can now access the best-in-class hardware, built specifically to enhance productivity and performance through device level AI capability and the Microsoft 365 (M365) suite of productivity tools. “Microsoft Surface is engineered to deliver best in class device productivity,” said Dian de…

As financial inclusion continues to be a major challenge for many communities across South Africa, FNB is enabling access to basic banking services and cash in close proximity to both the unbanked and under banked individuals, through FNB AgencyPlus.  AgencyPlus is a safe and convenient way for individuals to deposit cash into an FNB account and withdraw cash from their FNB account or eWallet at a local shop or small business registered as an AgencyPlus agent. Users can also buy airtime and electricity through the solution. Banking services are provided at the store (agents) via the FNB App or cellphone…