| SA ON TRUMP'S TARIFF 'PLAN B' LIST OF EXPORTERS |
| INVESTING IN FRONT OFFICE SKILLS THROUGH TRAINING |
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Facilitator Ann-Rose Oldham (8th left) with participants at yesterday's business skills training on front office and reception roles and responsibilities. Picture by Lethiwe Zondi.
Companies are increasingly investing in front-office and reception training to strengthen customer experience and professionalism. A fully subscribed workshop yesterday at the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business highlighted the growing focus on telephone and reception skills as key business assets.
Participants were trained in voice clarity, active listening, call handling, and managing difficult or complaint calls. Other skills included visitor management, assertiveness, message accuracy, and professional presentation. Emphasis was also placed on attitude, security awareness, and workplace ergonomics. Businesses say such training improves first impressions, boosts efficiency, and enhances client trust, positioning reception staff as vital ambassadors in an increasingly service-driven economy.
Click here for the 2026 business skills training programme. |
| POST-SECONDARY STUDY IN US OPPORTUNITIES ON OFFER |
The Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business will host an information session on 30 March about higher education opportunities in the US. EducationUSA adviser Susan Knowles and Evan Lis, Arizona State University recruitment coordinator, will discuss higher education opportunities, application processes, and partial scholarships. The free session from 11 am to 1 pm is open to students, parents, and educators to explore accredited US post-secondary programmes. Attendees will gain insights into study options, resources, and support networks. Registration is required by clicking here or by contacting Heidi on (033) 345 2747 or at pmcb@pmcb.org.za.
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1990: The seven-day war started when IFP-aligned militia attacked homesteads in Vulindlela and Edendale outside Pietermaritzburg.
1807: The British Parliament abolished the slave trade in the British West Indies.
Get out the pan, it’s International Waffle Day. |
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR PODCASTS IN THE AIR
The.government is proposing a regulatory framework to oversee podcasts in South Africa, aiming to address content standards, advertising transparency and copyright compliance. The initiative targets growing concerns over misinformation, harmful content and unlicensed commercial activity in the digital audio space. Officials say the framework will balance creative freedom with accountability, providing clarity for creators and platforms. Stakeholders are invited to participate in consultations, ensuring regulations are practical and enforceable.
Analysts note this move could formalise a largely unregulated sector, enhance consumer protection, and support responsible growth of South Africa’s podcasting and digital media industry. (SOURCE: News24)
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FREIGHT LOGISTICS OPERATORS BREAK AWAY TO FORM RIVAL BODY
The South African Freight and Logistics Association has launched to represent freight forwarders and local logistics operators, following dissatisfaction with SA Association of Freight Forwarders restructuring. Regional chapters were closed, leaving members feeling underrepresented, particularly at ports. Safla, led by industry veteran Dave Logan, promises data-driven advocacy and operational relevance, tackling trade friction and customs challenges. Former Saaff members praise the move as restoring regional engagement, with scheduled liaison with the South African Revenue Service now a priority. The new body signals a shift toward grassroots-driven logistics representation in South Africa’s freight sector. (SOURCE: FreightNews)
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SANRAL'S NEW ROADSIDE BUSINESS POLICY HITS POTHOLES
SANRAL is under fire for proposed amendments to its policy on rest and service facilities along national roads. Roadside business owners and the Charge Group argue the changes exceed SANRAL’s statutory mandate, regulating private land use, environmental compliance, and commercial participation. The amendments would allow SANRAL to levy up to 10% of turnover, limit lease terms to ten years, and dictate EV charging infrastructure locations. Critics warn the policy could delay rollout of critical EV stations, undermine investor certainty, and impact all businesses within 60m of national roads or 500m of intersections. (SOURCE: Moneyweb)
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COURT ORDERS DEADLINE FOR FMD VACCINE RULES
The Western Cape High Court has directed the government to finalise Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccine regulations within a set deadline. Agricultural groups warn that delays in legal frameworks have hindered rapid outbreak responses, threatening livestock health and export markets. The ruling seeks to ensure transparency, consistency, and timely access to vaccines. Industry stakeholders emphasise that clear regulations are essential for effective disease management, restoring farmer confidence, and safeguarding South Africa’s agricultural economy against trade disruptions and further FMD-related losses. Authorities are now legally obliged to implement the framework promptly. (SOURCE: BDLive) |
... AS TOTALENERGIES OFFSHORE DRILLING BID HEADS TO COURT
Small-scale fishers and environmental groups have taken TotalEnergies to court, challenging approvals for offshore oil and gas exploration along South Africa’s West Coast. Applicants argue the environmental impact assessment failed to consider long-term production risks, oil spill dangers and socio-economic harm to fishing communities. The proposed project spans about 30,000km² between Port Nolloth and Saldanha Bay. Respondents, including government departments, maintain exploration and production are legally distinct under the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act. The case highlights tensions between energy development, environmental protection and coastal livelihoods. (SOURCE: Groundwork)
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ESKOM ORDERED TO DISCLOSE COAL, DIESEL CONTRACTS
South Africa’s procurement transparency faces a major test after the Supreme Court of Appeal ordered Eskom to disclose details of its coal and diesel contracts to AfriForum. The ruling found Eskom’s reasons for withholding information legally insufficient, reinforcing accountability over an estimated R1-trillion in state procurement. The judgment strengthens public access to information and signals tougher scrutiny of state-owned entities. Analysts say the decision could expose pricing, supplier relationships and potential inefficiencies, while setting a precedent for future transparency battles. It also raises pressure on government to improve governance standards and rebuild public trust in strategic institutions. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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... AND PUSHES BACK AGAINST RAMAPHOSA'S UNBUNDLING PLAN
Eskom is pushing back against plans by Cyril Ramaphosa to accelerate the unbundling of the utility, highlighting deep divisions over its future structure. The proposed reforms aim to separate generation, transmission and distribution to improve efficiency and attract investment. However, Eskom’s resistance reflects concerns over operational disruption, financial sustainability and governance complexities. Analysts warn delays could stall broader energy sector reform and prolong supply instability. The standoff underscores the high stakes of restructuring South Africa’s power sector amid mounting pressure to stabilise electricity supply and restore confidence. (SOURCE: News24)
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... AND RAMOKGOPA VOWS END TO POWER OUTAGES IN 2026
Electricity minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has committed to eliminating load-shedding by 2026, targeting 1.69 million affected customers through a nationwide intervention programme. The plan includes rolling out smart meters, upgrading infrastructure, and tightening enforcement against non-payment and illegal connections. Government aims to stabilise supply while improving revenue collection and grid reliability. Ramokgopa described current outages as a temporary setback, signalling confidence in ongoing reforms. Analysts caution execution will be critical, given historic delays and operational challenges at Eskom, but say measurable progress could restore investor and consumer confidence in the energy sector. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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FARMERS BRACE FOR WINTER PLANTING OF DISCONTENT
South African farmers are entering the winter planting season facing soaring diesel prices and tightening supplies, driven by the Middle East conflict. Grain SA warns rising fuel and fertilizer costs, which account for roughly half of production expenses, could severely affect wheat, barley, sunflower, and corn output. Diesel availability is limited, with some retailers restricting purchases. Wheat prices have risen only 5.6%, insufficient to offset input costs. Farmerssay they are struggling to secure enough diesel, while the government acknowledges limited intervention options. Crop estimates on 23 April will reveal the potential scale of production disruption. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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LIBERTY DATA BREACH SPARKS CLIENT SECURITY CONCERNS
Liberty Holdings has confirmed a data breach after detecting unauthorised access to parts of its IT systems, raising concerns over potential client exposure. The insurer acted swiftly to contain the incident, launching an internal investigation with cybersecurity experts. Early indications suggest some client data may have been accessed, though the full extent remains unclear. Liberty has secured affected systems and begun notifying impacted customers. The breach is believed to involve a cyberattack by an external party, prompting the company to strengthen defences and mitigate further risks. (SOURCE: Bizcommunity)
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NAMIBIA SAYS NO TO STARLINK LICENSE OVER OWNERSHIP DISPUTE
Starlink has had its application for a Namibian operating license rejected due to concerns over ownership and control. The Namibia government cited unresolved foreign ownership issues that conflict with national telecom regulations, emphasizing local participation requirements in critical infrastructure. Authorities said the decision aims to protect domestic interests while ensuring regulatory compliance in the growing satellite internet sector. Starlink will need to address these concerns or restructure its application to meet Namibia’s legal framework. The rejection highlights challenges global tech firms face when expanding into African markets with strict ownership and licensing rules. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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MIDEAST CONFLICT ESCALATES DESPITE TALKS CLAIMS
Fighting between Iran and the US-Israeli alliance intensified as Iran launched missiles and drones at Israeli cities and US bases. President Donald Trump claimed talks were underway, but Tehran denied negotiations. The 25-day conflict has killed over 4 350 people, disrupted the Strait of Hormuz, and sent Brent crude prices up nearly 3%, marking a 40% surge since February 28. Regional partners, including Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, are involved in mediation efforts. The war continues to threaten global energy supply, inflation, and regional stability, with no guaranteed ceasefire in sight. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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... AS GOLD SURGES ON DIPLOMACY SIGNALS TO END WAR
Gold extended gains, climbing 2.8% to surpass $4 600 an ounce, following a 1.6% rise the previous session, after signals that the US may pursue diplomacy to end the Middle East conflict. Iran reportedly offered a “present” to show good faith in talks over energy flows via the Strait of Hormuz. Investors weighed falling oil, rising equities, and a weaker US dollar, while central banks considered gold-for-foreign-currency swaps to defend currencies. Bullion’s rebound reflects sensitivity to geopolitical tensions, Federal Reserve policy expectations, and inflation concerns. Spot silver rose 3.3% to $73.56, alongside gains in platinum and palladium. (SOURCE:Bloomberg)
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Care about people's approval and you will always be their prisoner.
Lao Tzu |
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| Dollar | R16.91
| + 0.24% | | Pound | R22.64
| + 0.47% | | Euro | R19.61
| + 0.35% | | Yen | 0.106335 |
| | Yuan | R2.45
| + 0.24% | | Bitcoin | $ 71 132.49
| + 1.20% |
These rates are correct at time of going to press. | | Platinum | $ 1 948.50 | + 2.23% | | Gold | $ 4 548.80 | + 1.70% | | Oil | $ 100.39
| + 0.92% | | All Share | 110 805.61 | + 0.31% | | Repo | 6.75 | | | Prime | 10.25 | |
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