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At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Botswana’s President Duma Boko discussed Africa’s economy, governance, and intra-African trade with CNBC Africa’s Fifi Peters, emphasizing the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement.
South Africa’s coal exports from RBCT increased by 10% to 52.08 million tons in 2024, the highest in three years, due to improved freight rail performance. Transnet’s capacity issues led to a decline in exports in previous years. Some exporters noted better rail performance in 2024. Asia received the majority of exports, with India and Pakistan as key importers. Shipments to Europe declined to 3.54 million tons in 2024.
China’s DeepSeek AI lab has caused concern in Silicon Valley with its cost-effective AI models outperforming top American counterparts. The lab’s large-language model, developed in just two months for less than $6 million, has raised questions about the US’s AI dominance. DeepSeek’s model surpassed Meta’s Llama 3.1, OpenAI’s GPT-4o, and Anthropic’s Claude Sonnet 3.5 in third-party tests.
UK’s foreign secretary, David Lammy, visited Chad’s Adré border post to witness the impact of Sudan’s civil war. Families flee war and famine in Sudan, with women and children sharing stories of violence and hunger. Lammy expressed shock at the horrific scenes and pledged support for those seeking safety.
Johannesburg Property Company CEO Helen Botes appointed as acting COO by Mayor Dada Morero, sparking controversy. Allegations of overstepping authority and lack of council ratification. DA caucus leader questions legality of appointment, citing violation of Municipal Systems Act. Council to address issue in upcoming session.
Political parties demand suspension of Cape Town councillors JP Smith and Xanthea Limberg (DA) after police raid on their offices. Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis seeks briefing from SAPS to understand allegations. Smith is safety and security committee member, Limberg is energy committee member. ANC calls for suspension pending investigation, similar to past case.
The Expropriation Bill in South Africa, in the works for years, was passed by Parliament on 27 March 2024. The bill, addressing land restitution, had faced debates over the Constitution’s Clause 25. President Ramaphosa recently signed it, potentially sparking tensions within the Government of National Unity.
Johannesburg Water schedules 72-hour water outage from Jan 31 to Feb 3 for valve installation at pump station. Affected areas include City Centre, Southern, Eastern, Northern suburbs, and industrial zones. Residents advised to store water. Rand Water also conducting maintenance. Residents urged to adapt to ongoing water challenges.
Silicon Valley Bank’s collapse on March 10, after a $42 billion bank run, has raised concerns about lending discrimination and disparities in capital for people of color. The bank was known for supporting minority entrepreneurs, but its failure has left many seeking funding alternatives. Industry experts emphasize the need to address systemic racism in banking and lending practices.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa signs law allowing land seizures without compensation, sparking controversy within his government. Black ownership of farmland remains low post-apartheid, leading to frustration. While ANC praises the law as a milestone, some coalition members may challenge it in court. The law permits expropriation without compensation in specific cases deemed just and in the public interest.
