Top Stories

Want to boost economic growth Improve mining infrastructure


The mail& Guardian


Governments, private sector, and regional bodies must collaborate to address Africa’s infrastructure challenges hindering mining sector growth. The continent needs $130-170 billion annually for development, but investment falls short. Legal and regulatory issues, corruption, and lack of access to finance are major hurdles. Cross-border projects and partnerships with international institutions can help maximize economic and mining synergies. Collaboration is key to unlocking Africa’s mining potential.



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Judge Mbenenges counsel suggests complainant was a willing participant in texts of sexual nature


The mail& Guardian


Eastern Cape judge president Selby Mbenenge faces sexual harassment accusations as his counsel cross-examines the accuser, Andiswa Mengo, questioning her honesty and responses to explicit messages. Mengo admits to mixed reactions but asserts feeling stripped of dignity and diminished productivity at work. The tribunal will determine if the interactions were consensual.



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New BEE tax for business in South Africa draws fire


BusinessTech


The Democratic Alliance rejects a plan by the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition to tax private sector profits to fund black-owned businesses. The proposed R100 billion Transformation Fund faces criticism and requires further discussion. Minister Parks Tau plans to finance the fund through existing BBBEE regulations, mandating companies to allocate profits to support black-owned businesses. Multi-national companies may face a cash contribution if they do not share equity with black partners.



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South Africa’s new R84 billion smart city looks nothing like what was planned


BusinessTech


Zendai Developments’ plan to build a R84 billion smart city in Modderfontein, Johannesburg, faced setbacks. Despite some development progress, it falls short of the envisioned project announced in 2014. The ambitious plan included various zones like a CBD, entertainment center, and technology-driven infrastructure. Market demand was expected to drive the project, likening it to the transformation of Sandton.



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What Trump’s return means for South Africa


BusinessTech


South Africans warned to monitor US economy under Trump’s return, which could impact rand, inflation, and interest rates. Trump’s focus on job creation and tax cuts resonates with US electorate, but policies may lead to higher inflation. Concerns over tariffs, deportations, and tax cuts could complicate rate cuts for US Federal Reserve and South African Reserve Bank.



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ANC in KZN and Gauteng to be ‘reconfigured’


Daily Maverick


ANC’s Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal structures advised to halt activities as NWC plans to reconfigure, potentially reshuffling top brass. Plans to be finalized in a week, with NEC members to present detailed plan. Decision follows poor electoral performance in 2024. KwaZulu-Natal hit hardest by uMkhonto Wesizwe party, ANC’s vote share dropped significantly.



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