| GAMING FESTIVAL, ART EXHIBITION FLY FLAG FOR CITY |
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Thousands of visitors descended on Liberty Midlands Mall for its annual gaming festival to highlight the growth of focussed events delivering immersive experiences.
The recent Liberty Midlands Mall Gaming Festival and the launch of the 2026 Art in the Country exhibition keep the flag flying for Pietermaritzburg and the KZN Midlands to shine a torch on private sector endeavour against a backdrop of municipal faltering (see below).
The gaming festival recorded exceptional growth, attracting 23 366 visitors in 2026, a rise of more than 120% compared with the previous year. Earlier this week in Hilton, a short video of the launch of the fifth edition of Art in the Country promised another exciting edition of KZN’s premier exhibition aiming to surpass last year’s R2.5 million sales record.
Like the art exhibition, the three-day gaming festival draws participants from across South Africa, including Johannesburg and Cape Town, highlighting its expanding national appeal. Attendance growth reflects rising demand for immersive gaming experiences beyond traditional retail spaces. The festival featured tournaments, simulators and interactive zones, transforming the mall into a major entertainment hub. Organisers say the strong year-on-year expansion confirms the event’s status as one of South Africa’s fastest-growing gaming platforms.
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| PRIVATE SECTOR RISES TO OCCASION AS MSUNDUZI GOES AWOL |
In the normal scheme of things, private sector events of local importance would feature, if not involve, local government in any number of capacities: local economic development, institutional support, marketing, promotion, that sort of thing.
That’s palpably not the case in Pietermaritzburg where the municipality no longer features at events of civic relevance. When last was a mayor asked to cut a ribbon or welcome guests, let alone being asked to lead a social campaign?
It’s a vacuum that extends beyond its infrastructural failings, an absence that speaks of apathy bordering on disrespect towards public events. The reason, we suspect, is part embarrasment for the many vicarious failures, and part because its brass doesn’t know how to deal with the public’s loss of respect.
What it says about its leadership is anybody’s guess, a problem that afflicts most municipalities across South Africa according to the White Paper on Local Government that hints loudly at the poor calibre of apppointees to key municipal positions.
Locally, two issues stand out - the collapse of Pietermaritzburg Tourism and the absence of an investment promotion department or even an official. It doesn't take rocket science to understand that these functions only happen through collective and coordinated action involving both the public and private sectors. But this does not happen, much to the frustration of the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business and other entities tirelessly flying the flag for the city. Hats off to the private sector and happy Friday wishes for a weekend break before next week's three-day working week. See you on Tuesday. Derek Alberts (editor) |
| TRAFFIC SWITCH MARKS KEY RIDGE N3 MILESTONE |
N3 travellers to Durban are reminded of a significant development being implemented from now until 26 April that will see the closure of the southbound carriageway between Hammarsdale and Key Ridge with traffic being shifted onto the northbound carriageway under a contraflow system. SANRAL cautioned that traffic will be directed into two lanes before widening to three lanes. Northbound traffic will keep to three lanes. Motorists are urged to obey instructions, slow down and drive cautiously.
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1990: The 2.4-metre aperture Hubble Space Telescope is launched into Earth’s orbit, delivering some of the most spectacular images of the far reaches of the Universe.
Spare a thought for all four-footed beings on World Day for Animals in Laboratories. For humans, it's International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace.
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POOR RAIL, PORT PERFORMANCES SLOW REFORM MOMENTUM
South Africa’s reform drive is faltering as rail and port constraints persist, with Transnet moving about 151 million tonnes of freight in 2025, below its 200 million tonne target. Export coal volumes have fallen from over 75 -million tonnes annually to around 50 million tonnes, while container port performance ranks among the worst globally.
Logistics delays are estimated to cost the economy more than R1 billion a day in lost output. Congestion and unreliable rail services continue to raise costs for miners, manufacturers and exporters. Although government has committed to opening networks to private operators, implementation remains slow, dampening investor confidence. Analysts warn that without faster execution and clearer funding models, growth and export competitiveness will remain under sustained pressure. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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SASOL OPENS REFINERY TAPS, UPS LPG OUTPUT
Sasol has lifted production at its Natref refinery and ramped up liquefied petroleum gas output as it responds to rising energy security concerns following Middle East disruptions. The group said fuel sales volumes are now expected to be 10%–15% higher than last year, supported by stable Secunda operations and stronger refinery performance. A new integrated LPG facility marks the first domestic production of the gas, reducing import reliance. However, gas output guidance has been cut due to flooding in Mozambique. Working capital has increased, with hedging in place to manage oil price and currency volatility. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
... AS US FUEL IMPORTS SURGE ON MIDEAST WAR
South Africa is increasing fuel imports from the United States as the Iran conflict disrupts Middle East supply routes and pushes global energy costs higher. At least four tankers carrying about 165,000 tons of refined fuels arrived in Durban this month, doubling earlier US shipments. The shift follows reduced flows from Gulf suppliers including Saudi Arabia, Oman and the UAE after disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Rising freight and oil prices are also lifting import costs, contributing to sharp domestic fuel price hikes. Officials say alternative supply chains are being used to stabilise national fuel availability. (SOURCE: Bloomberg) |
WHEAT PLANTINGS DROP TO 11-YEAR LOW
South Africa wheat plantings are expected to fall to their lowest level in 11 years as rising input costs squeeze farmers’ margins. Fertiliser, fuel and financing expenses have surged, making wheat production less viable in key growing regions. Industry estimates suggest total area planted could contract sharply, raising concerns about future domestic supply and import reliance. Producers say many farmers are switching to more profitable crops or reducing hectares altogether. The decline highlights ongoing pressures in the agricultural sector, with analysts warning that sustained cost inflation could further undermine food security and rural employment. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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CLICKS EYES TOWNSHIP GROWTH WITH CLINIC MODEL
Clicks Group plans to roll out new concept stores in townships, potentially integrating primary healthcare clinics to expand access and drive growth. The retailer says the model could combine retail pharmacy services with affordable healthcare, targeting underserved communities. This approach aligns with rising demand for convenient, community-based medical services. By embedding clinics within stores, Clicks aims to boost foot traffic while addressing gaps in public healthcare provision. The initiative reflects broader trends toward accessible care and could strengthen the company’s presence in high-growth township markets across South Africa. (SOURCE: News24)
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... AS DIS-CHEM JOB CUTS THREATEN SERVICE DELIVERY
Dis-Chem is moving to retrench a portion of its 22 000-strong workforce as it seeks to manage rising costs and improve operational efficiency. The group has initiated consultations, saying the process forms part of efforts to streamline operations amid a challenging retail environment. While the number of affected employees has not been disclosed, the move has raised concerns about job security. Dis-Chem said it remains focused on sustaining long-term growth while balancing cost pressures, with stakeholders closely watching how the restructuring will impact service delivery and expansion plans. (SOURCE: News24)
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WORLD BANK, AMAZON ISSUE R2 BILLION SPEKBOOM BOND
The World Bank has partnered with Amazon on a $120 million (about R2 billion) outcome-based bond to restore degraded ecosystems in the Eastern Cape. The 14-year bond ties investor returns to carbon credits generated through rehabilitation of Albany thicket and Spekboom, a carbon-absorbing plant heavily affected by overgrazing. Interest is set at 2.41%, with additional payouts linked to project success and carbon sales. Investors include major asset managers such as Nuveen and Morgan Stanley. The initiative aims to scale restoration across 50,000 hectares, combining biodiversity recovery with carbon market financing. (SOURCE: Bloomberg)
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CHINESE FIRM IN HOT SEAT OVER SOLAR PROJECT ABUSES
PowerChina is facing allegations of labour and safety abuses at a Karoo solar energy project in South Africa. Workers and advocacy groups claim poor working conditions, wage disputes and inadequate safety measures on-site. The project, part of South Africa’s renewable energy expansion, has drawn scrutiny as authorities investigate compliance with labour laws and contractor oversight. The company denies wrongdoing, saying it follows local regulations and international standards. The allegations have sparked concern over governance in large infrastructure builds and raised questions about monitoring of foreign contractors in the country’s green energy rollout. (SOURCE: News24)
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... AS WASHING MACHINES LOADED WITH ANTI-DUMPING DUTIES
South Africa has imposed anti-dumping duties on washing machines imported from China and Thailand after an investigation found they were sold below fair value, harming local manufacturers. The tariffs will remain in place for five years to protect domestic industry and support jobs. Authorities concluded that low-priced imports had undercut local producers, reducing competitiveness and market share. The move is expected to stabilise the sector, though it may lead to higher prices for consumers. Trade officials say the decision aligns with global rules aimed at preventing unfair trade practices and safeguarding industrial capacity. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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TRUMP MOOTS PLAN FOR MORE SOUTH AFRICAN REFUGEES
Donald Trump is considering expanding a US refugee programme to include more white South Africans, with officials discussing raising the annual cap by 10 000. The proposal has sparked debate over immigration priorities and the criteria used to assess refugee status. Supporters argue it addresses safety and economic concerns, while critics question whether it aligns with broader humanitarian policies. The move could reshape US–South Africa relations and influence global refugee frameworks. No final decision has been announced, with deliberations continuing among policymakers and immigration authorities. (SOURCE: BDLive)
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EAST AFRICA SETS SIGHTS ON JOINT OIL REFINERY PROJECT
East African countries are discussing a joint oil refinery at Tanzania’s Tanga port, aimed at reducing reliance on imported fuel and improving energy security, Kenyan President William Ruto said. The project, inspired by Nigeria’s Dangote refinery, would process crude from Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan and the DRC. Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote said he could help build the facility within four to five years if governments cooperate. The region currently imports all refined fuel, exposing it to price shocks and supply risks, especially amid global disruptions linked to the Iran conflict and volatile oil markets. (SOURCE: Reuters)
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BP SHAREHOLDERS UP IN ARMS OVER EXECUTIVE PAY
BP executives faced a shareholder revolt at its AGM, with about 25% of investors voting against executive pay resolutions, signalling strong dissatisfaction with strategy and performance. Around 30% of shareholders also backed climate-related dissent motions, underscoring pressure on the energy giant’s transition plans. The backlash reflects wider industry tensions over balancing fossil fuel profitability with decarbonisation commitments. Investors questioned capital allocation and the pace of strategic change as profits and returns come under scrutiny. While all resolutions passed, the level of opposition highlights rising governance pressure and could shape boardroom decisions in the year ahead. (SOURCE: AFP)
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If you wish to travel far and fast, travel light. Take off all your envies, jealousies, unforgiveness, selfishness and fears.
Cesare Pavese |
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