| HOW HIGH-PERFORMANCE TEAMS LEAD POSITIVE WORKPLACES |
The Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business will host a practical training workshop on Thursday, 25 June to help organisations build healthier, more productive workplace cultures. Presented by Dirk Calitz of Outdoor Educators, the interactive session will equip business owners, managers, HR professionals and team leaders with tools to transform dysfunctional workplace dynamics into motivated, engaged and high-performing teams. The workshop will provide practical strategies and real-world examples to strengthen teamwork, boost morale and improve workplace performance. Contact Thabisile on (033) 345 2747 or at info@pmcb.org.za.
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| WHEN BUSINESS STEPS OUT IN FANCY DRESS AND FUNKY MOVES .... |
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A troupe of clowns under the Kimbo the Clown umbrella brought fun, laughter and colour to the PMCB OTT Relay. For more pictures on the day, click here.
The OTT Relay, organised by the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business once again lived up to its reputation as the zaniest event on the city’s calendar. The event at Maritzburg College attracted 28 participating companies and 113 teams tackling the obstacle course in fancy dress, with superheroes, cartoon characters and other creative costumes adding to the spectacle. The day blended healthy competition with team spirit, camaraderie and plenty of laughs to showcase the business community at its most energetic, collaborative and entertaining.
Support came from a host of businesses, from the Comrades Marathon Association’s starter pistol to Jumping Joey's Jumping Castles, Aberdare’s braai stands and E&C Charcoal’s fuel supply.
Other sponsors were: Old Mutual (main sponsor), Bosch Service (sponsor), Maritzburg College (partner), The Witness (media sponsor), Mi7 Safety, Security & Paramedic Services, PDC, PLP, Centa Firequip, Rams Chairs, and Mark Easthorpe.
Companies booking marquees and entering teams: Belgotex, Business Partners, Diya Valves, Valverite, Vexila, LC Packaging SA, Uthukela Umgeni Water, Firequip, Nashua Maritzburg, UMEDA, Rural Metro, VHA Accounting Solutions, Morar Incorporated, Brink Towing Systems, Controlpro, Key PMB, CMN IT Solutions and Hulamin.
Entertainment and Activity Stops: DJ Roshan B (Grandmaster B Productions), Soulvae, Kimbo the Clown, Karkloof Canopy Tours and Secure Strap.
Prize Sponsors: NAC, Soulvae, LC Packaging SA, Asmalls, Old Mutual, Secure Strap and Karkloof Canopy Tours.
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| LAST CALL FOR 7 DIRECTORS AT CHAMBER AGM ELECTION |
Tomorrow is the deadline for nominations to the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business in the rotational elections for seven director positions on its Management Board for the July 2026–July 2028 term. Elections are scheduled for the AGM on 21 July. Nominations close at noon tomorrow. The incumbents up for re-election are Thirusha Govender, Ali Engelbrecht, Kevin Smith, Raj Seeparsad, Sharryn Middleton, Themba Ndhlovu and Mark Gutridge. Eligible nominees must be authorised representatives of member companies or individual members in good standing and are expected to serve on board committees and uphold fiduciary responsibilities under the Companies Act and PMCB governance code. Contact Heidi on (033) 345 2747 or at pmcb@pmcb.org.za
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1835: Port Natal was renamed Durban in honour of Sir Benjamin D’Urban, governor of the Cape Colony from 1834 - 37.
Elsewhere, in 2016, the UK voted to leave the European Union, setting in motion a process that took almost four years to be formally completed.
Today is observed as International Widows' Day. It's also International Women in Engineering Day! |
R600 MILLION BILL TO CONTAIN 30 JUNE ANTI-IMMIGRANT PROTESTS
The South African Police Service has launched a special security operation costing taxpayers more than R600 million to prevent violence linked to anti-immigrant protests planned for 30 June. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia warned that while peaceful protest is protected by the Constitution, authorities will act decisively against intimidation, destruction of property and armed participation.
Police readiness has been intensified across all nine provinces, with KZN, Gauteng, the Eastern Cape and Western Cape identified as potential hotspots. The operation follows recent attacks on foreign nationals, including fatalities in Pietermaritzburg and Mossel Bay. Government leaders are urging communities to reject xenophobia and support law enforcement efforts to maintain peace, stability and public safety. (SOURCE: Daily Maverick)
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FUEL-PRICE RELIEF ON THE CARDS ON 1 JULY
Motorists are set for significant relief at the pumps as petrol and diesel prices are expected to drop sharply in the latest monthly adjustment, driven by weaker global oil prices and a stronger Rand. Industry data indicates petrol could fall by around R1.20/litre, while diesel may decline by as much as R1.40/litre on 1 July, the first Wednesday of the month. The relief follows a recent period of elevated fuel costs linked to geopolitical tensions and supply volatility in global markets. Analysts say the cuts could provide short-term support to inflation, particularly in food and manufacturing sectors, where fuel is a key input cost. (SOURCE: News24)
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ZULULAND LNG TERMINAL LANDS EXXONMOBIL ANCHOR
The proposed Zululand Energy Terminal (ZET) at Richards Bay has secured a major boost after signing a heads of agreement with ExxonMobil South Africa LNG, providing a second anchor customer alongside Eskom and strengthening the project's bankability. The terminal is expected to play a key role in South Africa’s energy transition, supporting government plans for 6GW of gas-fired power by 2030 and helping offset declining gas supplies from Mozambique. Developed by a joint venture between Vopak Terminal Durban, Reatile Group and Transnet Pipelines, the project will include LNG storage, regasification facilities and gas distribution infrastructure. Phase one is designed to handle about three million tonnes of LNG a year, expanding to 4.5 million tonnes in phase two. (SOURCE: Daily Maverick)
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... AS ROGUE CYLINDER FILLERS SPARK SAFETY WARNINGS
Illegal and unregulated filling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders is creating serious safety risks across South Africa, with industry players warning that improperly filled cylinders can become “time bombs” in homes and businesses. Rogue operators often refill cylinders without conducting mandatory safety inspections, pressure tests or maintenance checks, increasing the risk of leaks, fires and explosions. The problem has intensified as demand for LPG grows amid rising electricity costs and ongoing energy challenges. Industry bodies are calling for stricter enforcement, greater consumer awareness and tougher action against illegal fillers. They urge consumers to use only accredited suppliers and ensure cylinders are properly certified before refilling.
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UCT PIONEERS BIODIVERSITY HEAT WARNING SYSTEM
Researchers at the University of Cape Town have helped develop the world’s first early warning system capable of predicting extreme heat risks to wildlife up to nine months in advance. Published in Nature Climate Change, the study combined NASA forecasting technology with temperature records for more than 30,000 species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. The system identified over 3,500 species likely to experience unprecedented heat exposure, including 1,250 threatened species. Scientists say the tool provides a crucial three- to five-month warning window, allowing conservationists to implement protective measures before heat-related die-offs occur. The breakthrough could transform biodiversity conservation as climate change drives more frequent and severe extreme weather events. (SOURCE: Bizcommunity)
See below: UN in R3.3 billion bid to ward off ‘Godzilla’ El Niño |
RESERVE BANK MUSEUM TO PROMOTE FINANCIAL LITERACY
The Reserve Bank has opened a museum aimed at improving financial literacy and helping South Africans better understand the role of the central bank in maintaining economic stability. The facility in Tswane showcases the history of money, the evolution of banking and the Reserve Bank’s responsibility for safeguarding the value of the Rand through low and stable inflation. Interactive exhibits are designed to make complex economic concepts more accessible to learners, students and the public. Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago said greater financial understanding can empower citizens to make informed decisions while strengthening confidence in South Africa’s financial system and economy. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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RENEWABLE BOOM OUTPACES GRID CAPACITY GROWTH
South Africa’s renewable energy capacity has surged past 26 GW, driven by rapid solar expansion and private investment, but a major mismatch with grid and storage infrastructure is emerging. Industry experts warn that transmission constraints, especially in wind-rich provinces, are limiting efficient power delivery and forcing reliance on coal during evening peaks. Daytime oversupply is increasingly likely, with excess energy curtailed under existing contracts. Storage capacity remains insufficient at about 5 GW combined pumped hydro and batteries, with a further 4 GW planned by 2032. Analysts say market reforms and accelerated storage investment are essential to stabilise the energy transition. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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... AND SOLAR SECTOR PLEADS FOR FAIR ACCESS
The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) has welcomed the launch of Eskom Green, a new State-owned renewable-energy utility, but urged government to ensure fair and transparent access to limited grid capacity for all independent power producers. SAPVIA CEO Dr Rethabile Melamu said transmission constraints remain the key barrier to accelerating renewable-energy investment despite strong sector capability and readiness. The association said Eskom Green could unlock partnerships, investment and faster project delivery, particularly in solar PV and battery storage. However, success will depend on policy certainty, equitable grid allocation and collaboration across government, Eskom and private industry stakeholders. (SOURCE: Engineering News)
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LEMON EXPORTS UP ON FAVOURABLE GROWING CONDITIONS
The Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA) has revised its 2026 lemon export estimate upward by 3.6 million cartons, from 45.8 million to 49.4 million 15kg cartons, reflecting stronger-than-expected production conditions. Favourable rainfall and three cold fronts improved fruit sizing and colour development across key growing regions. Production gains were recorded mainly in Letsitele and the Sundays River Valley, while Senwes, Patensie and the Boland remain major packing hubs. Despite higher volumes, the season is expected to end more abruptly in mid-July. The CGA says logistics coordination will be critical to managing elevated export flows efficiently. (SOURCE: FreightNews)
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GLOBAL FREIGHT RATES SURGE 12% AS CAPE ROUTE DOMINATES
Global container shipping rates have surged to an 18-month high, with the Drewry World Container Index rising 12% week-on-week to $3 969 (about R65 500) per 40-foot container (FEU). The increase is driven by continued disruption to Red Sea routes, forcing most carriers to divert via the Cape of Good Hope. A total of 181 vessels used the Cape route in the week ending June 14, compared with just 28 transiting the Suez Canal, highlighting ongoing security and operational concerns. Major operators including CMA CGM, Maersk and MSC remain cautious, while tighter capacity and stronger demand continue to push freight prices higher globally. (SOURCE: FreightNews)
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IRANIAN OIL EXPORTS SURGE THROUGH HORMUZ STRAIT
Iran has sharply increased crude oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz as shipping activity rebounds amid efforts to secure a lasting peace agreement with the United States. Ship-tracking data show three US-sanctioned supertankers carrying about six million barrels of Iranian crude entered the strategic waterway on Monday, bound for Asian markets. The surge follows the lifting of a US blockade on vessels visiting Iranian ports and signals a rapid recovery in Iranian oil exports. Traffic through Hormuz, which handles roughly 20% of global oil and LNG trade, is also increasing as producers move to boost output. Analysts say the renewed flows are easing concerns over global energy supply disruptions. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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UN IN R3.3 BILLION BID TO WARD OFF ‘GODZILLA’ EL NIÑO
The United Nations has launched its first-ever anticipatory appeal to prepare vulnerable countries for the potential impacts of a powerful El Niño weather event that forecasters fear could become a “Godzilla” episode. The World Food Programme and Food and Agriculture Organisation are seeking $202 million (about R3.3 billion) to protect nearly nine million people across 22 high-risk countries. Forecasts from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration indicate a 63% chance that the event could become “very strong”, bringing drought to southern Africa and flooding elsewhere. Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe are among the countries identified for support. The appeal reflects growing confidence in forecasting tools and a shift towards acting before disasters strike. (SOURCE: Daily Maverick)
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TECH TALKS FORUM
This forum is designed to keep you up to-date with latest technology trends and offers a deeper understanding of the tools you already use. Expert speakers address key technologies.
MASTERING TEAMS, EMAIL SECURITY & AI BOTS
Is your team truly getting the most out of Microsoft Teams? Are you confident your email security can handle the latest phishing threats? And have you seen what AI bots can now do?
Please join us for our next Tech Talk, where we'll cut through the noise and focus on three practical, high-impact areas for local businesses in 2026.
We'll provide actionable insights on:
- Using Teams for Day-to-Day Communications: Moving beyond basic chat and meetings - learn how to structure channels, manage notifications, and integrate apps to reduce email clutter and improve team collaboration.
- Email Security & The Current Phishing Evolution: Cybercriminals are smarter than ever. We'll cover the latest phishing techniques targeting Pietermaritzburg businesses and simple steps to protect your people and inboxes.
- Recent AI Evolution Around Bots & Capabilities: From intelligent assistants to automated workflows, discover how modern AI bots can handle customer queries, schedule tasks, and save your team hours each week - without the hype.
Presenter : Noel Thompson - Altostratus Tech
Date: 26 June 2026
Time: 10:00
Venue: PMCB Offices - 1 Parkhaven , 55 Macleroy Road, Northern Park, Pietermaritzburg
Cost: Free - PMCB members, R60 (incl. vat) non PMCB members |
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The key to successful work-life balance is to not be afraid to fail at it. You will drop the ball on something; the trick is knowing which balls are made of rubber and which are made of glass.
Nora Roberts |
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