Rising global oil prices force South Africa’s low‑cost airline FlySafair to introduce temporary fuel surcharge

Rising global oil prices have forced South Africa’s low‑cost airline, FlySafair, to introduce a temporary fuel surcharge as it grapples with sharply higher jet‑fuel costs linked to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. The airline says the price of Jet A1 fuel at South Africa’s coastal airports ha…

Africa’s tourism sector feels the impact of Middle East conflict as flight disruptions through Gulf hubs threaten inbound travel

The ongoing conflict in Iran is reverberating across global travel markets, with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) estimating daily losses of at least $600 million in international visitor spending across the Middle East. The crisis has disrupted air travel, shaken traveller confidence and …

Gabon formally requests an IMF programme to stabilise the country’s finances

The World Bank estimates that Gabon’s economy grew by 2.9% in 2024, driven largely by the oil sector and public‑works projects. However, the Central African nation remains heavily dependent on a narrow export base, with 97% of its exports coming from oil, manganese and wood. The Bank warns that d…

Nedbank’s Pitch & Polish supports entrepreneurs in refining strategy, strengthening systems and building resilient businesses

Across Africa, small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) play a central role in driving economic growth, innovation and job creation. In South Africa, the SMME sector continues to shoulder significant responsibility for expanding economic participation and creating employment opportunities. Nedba…

2026 Africa Young Graduates and Scholars Conference advances African research excellence and youth empowerment

South Africa’s Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), together with the University of Mpumalanga, is hosting the 2026 Africa Young Graduates and Scholars Conference at the university’s Mbombela campus. Held under the theme “Driving Sustainable Development: Innovation Through Technological Transf…

FNB expands its eWallet service onto WhatsApp

South Africa’s digital‑payments landscape is rapidly evolving, driven by increased mobile adoption and the rise of contactless technology. First National Bank has expanded its eWallet service onto WhatsApp, creating a simpler digital entry point into formal financial services for millions of South …

Latest market developments with Anri Brink, Investment Strategist at Absa Investments

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, the International Energy Agency (IEA) is reportedly considering its largest‑ever release of emergency oil reserves to stabilise global markets. Meanwhile, Harmony Gold has released its interim results for the six months ending December 31, 2025, providin…

Canal+ reports MultiChoice revenue down 6% to $2.8 billion for year ending December 2025

Canal+ SA shares have dropped by more than 16% after the French pay‑TV group reported a continued decline in MultiChoice’s subscriber base and profitability. Revenue fell by 6%, to roughly $2.8 billion for the year ending December 31, 2025. MultiChoice has faced mounting pressure from tough econo…

US Ambassador says Washington aims to double number of American companies operating in South Africa

United States Ambassador to South Africa, Leo Brent Bozell III, says Washington aims to double the number of American companies operating in the country, a move he believes could help create around 250 000 jobs. Bozell noted that his mandate includes advancing policies that benefit the American peo…

World Bank approves Blended Finance Platform for Resilient Infrastructure Program for South Africa

South Africa’s efforts to accelerate infrastructure investment, create jobs and stimulate economic growth have received a significant boost with the World Bank’s approval of the Blended Finance Platform for Resilient Infrastructure Program. The initiative introduces a new Credit Guarantee Vehicle…