| CONTEMPORARY BUSINESS LEADERSHIP BUILT ON VALUES AND TRUST |
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Author Charlotte Otter (left) and event organiser Desiray Viney at the launch of her book on contemporary business leadership.
The launch of city-born author Charlotte Otter’s new book on business leadership at the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business sparked an engaging discussion on purposeful leadership and reputation in today’s rapidly shifting world.
Otter explained in her book, We Need New Leaders: The New Reputation Equity for Diverse CEOs, that leadership now demands clarity of identity, authenticity, and ethical communication. Whether running an SME or steering a global corporation, leaders must define and live by their unique values to build trust and credibility. Reputation cannot be left to chance - communications leaders must actively protect executives, building a “moat” around them, especially during crises.
Networking and “shouting it out loud” through media enhances visibility, while purposeful action strengthens resilience. Otter’s book underscores how leaders can inspire confidence and successfully navigate complexity through trust, purpose, and authentic communication. For more information, contact event organiser Desiray Viney at dviney4@gmail.com. |
| CHASE THE BUZZ AT SPEED NETWORKING SESSION TOMORROW |
| Join the Bizz-Link Network tomorrow, 23 September 2025, from 8 am to 10 am at the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business, for a fun speed-networking forum. Each participant has 90 seconds to pitch their business, with the winner taking home the coveted Bizz-Link Bee. Dr Timothy Obaje will present a business hack on AI and the Future of Business, exploring risks, rewards, and adoption strategies. Coffee and muffins provided. PMCB members pay R50, non-members R100. Book via Glue-up or via email to marketing@pmcb.org.za. |
| UNPACKING WOMEN WORKPLACE CHALLENGES OVER COFFEE |
| The popular Coffee Conversations forum on Thursday, 25 September invites HR managers, business owners, and women leaders to discuss workplace equity, career growth, inclusion, and mental health. Presenters Shannon Lawrence and Aneleh De Villiers of Redfern Incorporated will guide interactive discussions on legal perspectives, leadership, work-life balance, and best practices. Attendees can share experiences, ask questions, and explore strategies to foster inclusive, forward-thinking workplaces. The session from 8am to 9 am at the Pietermaritzburg and Midlands Chamber of Business is free for PMCB members and R50 for non-members. RSVP via Glue-up or by email to pmcb@pmcb.org.za to add discussion points to the agenda. |
1828: Shaka Zulu was murdered by his bodyguard, Mbopha, and his two half-brothers Dingane and Mhlangana.
Elsewhere, in 1980, Iraq invaded Iran to start one of the 20th century's deadliest and longest conventional wars. Seven years later, it ended indecisively.
In observance of the plight of an endangered species, today is observed as World Rhino Day.
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SCOPA TO PROBE RAF COLLUSION BETWEEN JUDGES, LAWYERS
Parliament’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa) has launched an inquiry into alleged corruption and collusion in the Road Accident Fund (RAF), including possible collaboration between judges and lawyers. Chairperson Songezo Zibi confirmed the committee is investigating financial mismanagement, wasteful expenditure, and double payments to lawyers and medical experts. Scopa has requested documentation from the RAF, Judicial Service Commission, and Chief Justice, while also probing whistleblower submissions.
Zibi has also increased his personal security amid reported surveillance. The inquiry seeks to quantify financial losses, hold individuals accountable, and protect whistleblowers, highlighting ongoing concerns about systemic corruption and the need for transparency in state institutions. (SOURCE: Moneyweb)
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ESKOM ON A ROLL AS EAF EXCEEDS 70% IN SEPTEMBER
Eskom's Energy Availability Factor (EAF) has consistently surpassed the 70% target in September 2025, reflecting sustained improvements in power generation. Between September 5 and 11, the EAF fluctuated between 69% and 73%, indicating enhanced plant performance. This achievement is attributed to the ongoing implementation of Eskom's Generation Recovery Plan, which focuses on optimizing maintenance schedules and enhancing operational efficiency. Additionally, the open-cycle gas turbines (OCGTs) maintained a minimal load factor of 0.001% for the second consecutive week, demonstrating effective management of diesel resources and contributing to cost savings. (Engineering News) |
COSATU DEMANDS JOB PRIORITY FOR LOCALS
Cosatu has joined opposition parties and community organisations in calling for South Africans to be given priority status in the job market and economic empowerment initiatives. The ANC-aligned labour federation said it will work with government departments and law enforcement agencies to ensure employers comply with labour laws and reduce reliance on undocumented foreign workers. The move follows growing pressure from ActionSA, the Patriotic Alliance, and Operation Dudula, all of which have highlighted illegal immigration as a key driver of local unemployment. Cosatu’s stance adds weight to a contentious debate on jobs, migration, and economic opportunity. (SOURCE: Moneyweb) |
R340 MILLION BERGVILLE ROAD TO BENEFIT LOCALS
The KZN Department of Transport has allocated R340 million for the upgrade of Main Road P340, a vital alternative to the N3. MEC Siboniso Duma announced that R15 million is reserved for salaries of local skilled and semi-skilled workers, while R58.3 million is set aside for contracts with women-, youth-, veteran-, and disability-owned companies. The project will also provide training for 30 students. Positioned as a key tourism corridor to the Drakensberg, the P340 aims to drive socio-economic growth and regional connectivity, with completion expected by August 2027. (SOURCE: Construction News) |
COURT ORDERS POLICE TO PAY FARMER 10 YEARS AFTER MOB ATTACK
Zululand farmer Arnold Raath has won over R2 million in damages after police failed to stop a mob from slaughtering 80–90 of his cattle in 2015. Judge Mokgere Masipa ruled the police had both the means and obligation to disperse the crowd but “subordinated” Raath’s rights to mob pressure. Despite repeated warnings, riot control units with teargas and water cannons were never deployed. Masipa called police inaction negligent and unconstitutional, noting the poisoning allegations that sparked the protest were false. The ministry of police was ordered to pay damages with interest and costs. (SOURCE: BDLive) |
SAB INVESTS R650 MILLION TO BACK BARLEY FARMERS
South African Breweries (SAB) has invested over R650 million in the past five years to support small-scale farmers growing barley for its beer. The funding covers mechanisation programmes, training, and interest-free loans, aiming to secure local supply while strengthening rural communities. SAB’s initiative highlights both the potential of private sector-led agricultural development and concerns about government’s limited role in supporting farmers. By stabilising supply chains and creating opportunities in under-resourced areas, SAB positions itself as a key driver of sustainable farming. The investment also tests government’s commitment to ensuring long-term food security and agricultural growth in South Africa. (SOURCE: BDLive) |
SPAZAS, INFORMAL TRADE OUTPACE SUPERMARKETS IN 2025
South African consumers are increasingly favouring spaza shops, independent superettes, and taverns over major supermarkets, according to NielsenIQ’s latest State of the Retail Nation report. In the first six months of 2025, traditional outlets recorded R324.4bn in fast-moving consumer goods sales, with value up 14.8% and volumes rising 16.4% year-on-year. This growth significantly outpaced modern retail, highlighting the resilience of community-based outlets amid economic strain and shifting consumer habits. Analysts note that traditional trade’s flexibility, proximity, and competitive pricing are attracting cost-conscious shoppers. As supermarkets battle slower growth, traditional retail is cementing its place as a dominant force in South Africa’s consumer economy. (SOURCE: BDLive) |
... AS SPAR BANKS ON PET STORES FOR RECOVERY
Spar is betting on pet retail to drive its turnaround, unveiling Africa’s largest pet store in Boksburg as part of a 100-outlet Pet Storey rollout by 2026. CEO Angelo Swartz said the chain, along with Build It and Pharmacy, should generate 30% of group revenue within five years. About half of the stores will be new builds, creating jobs and supplier opportunities, while stabilising Spar’s pressured core grocery business and diversifying into high-growth adjacent markets. (SOURCE: BDLive) |
AFRICA’S HOTEL PIPELINE AT 577 AND COUNTING
Africa’s hotel industry is booming, with 577 new hotels and resorts under construction, adding over 104 000 rooms. Sub-Saharan Africa drives growth, supported by strong investor appetite and rising tourism demand. Zimbabwe and Zanzibar emerge as key hotspots, while South Africa and Kenya see diverse expansion across leisure, business, and MICE segments. Challenges remain, including high construction costs, infrastructure delays, and financing complexities. Developers are using performance guarantees and innovative ownership models to attract investment. Experts say each new hotel becomes an economic engine, generating jobs, foreign investment, and tourism growth, reinforcing Africa’s position as a dynamic, high-potential hospitality market over the next decade. (SOURCE: Bizcommunity) |
GOOGLE'S 4 SUBSEA CABLES TO BOOST AFRICAN CONNECTIVITY
Google will establish four subsea cable hubs across Africa, including one in South Africa, to enhance digital corridors linking the continent to the world. Building on its Equiano cable and Africa Connect programme, the initiative aims to expand connectivity that has already enabled 100 million Africans to access the internet. Google will also provide free one-year AI Pro subscriptions for university students in seven countries and commit $9 million to research institutions. These investments add to $17 million in prior funding, supporting digital skills, startups, and innovation. Equiano alone is projected to add $5.8 billion to South Africa’s GDP in 2025. (SOURCE: Engineering News) |
GLOBAL ECONOMY TAKES TRUMP SHOCKS IN STRIDE, FOR NOW
Global markets are showing resilience amid recent political and economic shocks linked to Donald Trump. Analysts note that, despite uncertainty surrounding policy changes and regulatory interventions, major economies continue to operate steadily. Short-term volatility has increased, particularly in equities and commodities, but underlying fundamentals such as strong corporate earnings, robust employment figures, and active central bank support are helping maintain confidence. Investors remain cautious, monitoring potential impacts on trade, investment, and fiscal policy, while global supply chains appear largely unaffected for now. Economists warn that sustained political uncertainty could erode growth, but for the moment, the world economy is absorbing the shocks. (SOURCE: Reuters) |
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What we achieve inwardly will change outer reality.
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| Dollar | R17.35 | - 0.09% | | Pound | R23.37
| - 0.03% | | Euro | R20.37
| + 0.01% | | Yen | 0.117101 |
| | Yuan | R2.44 | - 0.14% | | Bitcoin | $ 114 485.69
| - 0.93% |
These rates are correct at time of going to press. | | Platinum | $ 1 421.82
| + 0.38% | | Gold | $ 3 698.16
| + 0.43% | | Oil | $ 67.07
| + 0.66% | | All Share | 106 111.71 | + 0.65% | | Repo | 7.00 | | | Prime | 10.50 | |
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