Business Africa

E‑hailing drivers represented by the Amalgamated Union of App‑Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), working on platforms such as Uber, Bolt and inDrive, have intensified their protests as their three‑day strike enters its final stage, with little to no response from the companies. The drivers say they are now preparing to escalate their action by picketing company offices if their demands are not addressed. At the centre of the dispute is a call for a fare review that better reflects Nigeria’s current economic realities, including rising fuel costs, inflation and platform commission structures that drivers argue leave them unable to earn a sustainable income. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Ayoade Ibrahim, President of the Africa Platform Workers Representatives (APWR) and Co‑founder of the Amalgamated Union of App‑Based Transporters of Nigeria.

Ethiopian Airlines has unveiled a $50‑million expansion of its domestic terminal in Addis Ababa, more than doubling its capacity to accommodate rising passenger numbers amid a tourism boom and more than 200 daily domestic flights. The expansion forms part of Ethiopia’s broader strategy to position itself as Africa’s aviation hub, supported by significant investments in airport infrastructure and fleet modernisation. Meanwhile, the Ethiopian government is in discussions with the Export–Import Bank of China to secure funding for the proposed Bishoftu International Airport. The new airport is expected to ease congestion at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and further expand the nation’s aviation capacity as passenger and cargo volumes continue to rise. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Mered Fikireyohannes, CEO of Pragma Investment Advisory.

South Africa Innovation Week 2026 is currently underway in Johannesburg, bringing together more than 150 innovators and key partners to showcase the country’s growing technological capabilities. With participation from organisations such as Enterprise Ireland, the Development Bank of Southern Africa, and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, the event aims to drive collaboration, spark dialogue and strengthen South Africa’s innovation ecosystem through nationwide activations. The week‑long programme highlights emerging technologies, investment opportunities and innovation‑driven solutions that can support economic transformation and job creation across the country. Channel Africa’s Economics Reporter, Innocent Semosa, has more.

Nedbank has partnered with Crypto.com to leverage blockchain technology and digital assets in developing innovative payment, settlement and liquidity solutions across Africa. The collaboration positions Nedbank as a premier gateway for secure, regulated blockchain finance on the continent, enhancing transparency and efficiency in cross‑border transactions and marking a transformative step in the region’s financial landscape. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Simon Marland, Managing Executive responsible for Automation, Blockchain and Analytics at Nedbank.

For our weekly business round‑up, we are joined by Victor Kgomoeswana, Author of Africa Is Open for Business and Africa Bounces Back, and the Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at the University of Limpopo. He takes us through the business news that made headlines this week.

Dozens of countries have agreed to release a record amount of oil from emergency reserves in an effort to stabilise global supply and curb soaring prices. All 32 members of the International Energy Agency (IEA), including the United States and the United Kingdom, will release a combined 400 million barrels, as the agency warns of supply disruptions it describes as unprecedented in scale. The coordinated action comes amid heightened volatility in global energy markets and fears of prolonged supply disruptions linked to ongoing geopolitical conflict. The release is intended to ease pressure on consumers, support global energy security and cushion economies from further shocks.   Channel Africa’s Economics Reporter, Innocent Semosa, has more.

Dozens of countries have agreed to release a record amount of oil from emergency reserves, in an effort to stabilise global supply and curb soaring prices. All 32 members of the International Energy Agency, including the United States and the United Kingdom, will release a combined 400 million barrels, as the agency warns of supply disruptions it describes as unprecedented in scale. The move comes amid heightened global energy market volatility and fears of prolonged supply disruptions. Channel Africa's economics reporter Innocent Semosa has more.

Strong leadership and effective governance are being identified as critical drivers in developing transport systems that support inclusive growth across Southern Africa. Insights shared on the final day of discussions at the National Transport Conference in Midrand, Johannesburg, emphasised the importance of clear policy direction, stronger regional cooperation and increased private‑sector participation in transforming transport networks across the region. Stakeholders highlighted that well‑governed transport systems are essential for boosting trade, improving mobility and unlocking economic opportunities,  particularly for land‑locked countries that depend heavily on reliable regional corridors. Our reporter, Lebogang Mabange, has more.

Equity Group Holdings Plc has posted record profits for the year ending December 2025, becoming the most profitable company in East and Central Africa. The strong performance, driven by accelerating digital growth and rising contributions from its regional subsidiaries, comes as the lender positions itself for expansion into new markets, including Ethiopia and West Africa. Daniel Ominde reports from Nairobi.

As mining and gas exploration expand across Africa, questions are intensifying over who truly benefits from these projects. Delegates at the Southern Africa Oil and Gas Conference in Cape Town say meaningful community involvement, particularly the inclusion of women and young people, is essential to ensuring sustainable development and minimising conflict in mining regions. They warn that excluding local voices can lead to community resistance, project delays and long‑term instability. Stakeholders stress that equitable benefit‑sharing, transparent engagement and social investment must be prioritised if resource development is to support lasting economic growth. Channel Africa’s Economics Reporter, Innocent Semosa, has more.

The South African government is currently reviewing appeals lodged against environmental authorisations granted for several offshore oil and gas exploration projects. The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Willie Aucamp, says the move is aimed at preventing further “decision paralysis” in the sector. He emphasised that the department has a legal and constitutional responsibility to make timely decisions that support inclusive economic growth, while balancing environmental protection with the country’s development needs. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Dr Ross Compton, Senior Director of Global Policy at EnerGeo Alliance.

Industry leaders attending the Southern African Oil and Gas Conference in Cape Town are reflecting on key takeaways, from energy security to investment opportunities and environmental concerns. Discussions highlighted the role of the oil and gas sector in supporting regional energy stability, the investment required to unlock new exploration and production projects, and the growing need to respond to environmental and community‑impact considerations. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Unathi Magida, Executive Head of Communications and Stakeholder Relations at the Petroleum Agency South Africa, about the major outcomes of the conference and what they mean for the country’s energy future.

Lindile Malgas, Investment Strategist at Absa Investments, unpacks how global markets have been moving recently and how the rand has been reacting. He also discusses PPC Limited’s ten‑month operational update, as well as the key economic data points and earnings reports that investors should be keeping an eye on in the coming days.

As the Southern Africa Oil and Gas Conference draws to a close, South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Phumzile Mgcina, says one of the biggest challenges facing the country’s petroleum sector is persistent opposition from environmental lobby groups, which she argues continues to hinder oil and gas development initiatives. The conference brought together industry leaders, policymakers and investors to discuss the region’s energy future and explore opportunities within Southern Africa’s oil and gas sector, including investment prospects, regulatory reforms and the role of hydrocarbons in the energy transition. Channel Africa’s Economics Reporter, Innocent Semosa, has more.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has triggered a sharp energy crisis in Nigeria, with fuel prices surging by approximately 47% over just six weeks as global oil prices climbed above $100 per barrel. In response, the Dangote Refinery, with a production capacity of around 650 000 barrels per day,  is ramping up output and prioritising domestic supply in an effort to avert looming fuel shortages. Meanwhile, some analysts are urging the Nigerian government to channel any anticipated windfall from higher oil prices into measures that ease the burden on households and businesses, warning that escalating fuel costs are already worsening economic hardship across the country. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Channel Africa’s Correspondent in Nigeria, Jonathan James Lyangohn.

Transport systems are increasingly being recognised as a key driver of economic growth, job creation and social inclusion, particularly in developing economies. At the inaugural National Transport Conference, underway at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, north of Johannesburg, industry leaders and global experts are sharing insights on how countries can leverage transport infrastructure to unlock opportunity and build more sustainable economies. Our reporter, Lebogang Mabange, has more.

Hortgro says severe shipping disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el‑Mandeb have significantly affected South Africa’s fruit exports, particularly to markets in the Middle East. According to Jacques du Preez, Hortgro’s Trade and Markets General Manager, approximately 675 000 cartons of stone fruit and 900 000 cartons of apples and pears are currently at sea, facing uncertainty due to delays and rerouted vessels. Efforts to divert shipments to alternative markets have been limited, as many of those markets are already oversupplied, placing additional downward pressure on prices and threatening producer incomes. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Mariette Kotze, General Manager of Support Services at Hortgro.

South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Alexandra Abrahams, says localisation must become a national commitment to rebuild productive capacity, deepen value chains and ensure sustained economic growth, while creating real opportunities for South Africans. Speaking at the Buy Local Summit & Expo, hosted by Proudly South African at the Sandton Convention Centre, Abrahams emphasised that supporting local production should not shield domestic industries from global competition.  Instead, she said localisation should strengthen competitiveness, build resilience and expand South Africa’s manufacturing and industrial base. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Deputy Minister Alexandra Abrahams.

This week on our markets feature, we continue our discussion from last week on South Africa’s Buy Local Summit & Expo, taking place at the Sandton Convention Centre, north of Johannesburg. The two‑day event, which ends today, encourages consumers and businesses to support local brands and strengthen the country’s economic base through localisation. Naledzani Mosomane, Head of Enterprise & Supplier Development for Business and Commercial Banking South Africa at Standard Bank South Africa, joins the conversation.

The World Bank has approved $45 million for Zambia under the Second Zambia Climate and Economic Resilience Programmatic Development Policy Financing. Finance and National Planning Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane says the approval signals renewed international confidence in the country’s economic‑reform programme, as Zambia continues to grapple with high debt levels, sluggish economic growth and recurring climate shocks. The funding, to be disbursed through the International Development Association (IDA), is expected to bolster international backing for Zambia’s macroeconomic‑reform agenda and support efforts to strengthen the country’s long‑term economic resilience. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Trevor Hambayi, an Economist based in Zambia.

South Africa’s (SA) Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, says the ongoing United States–Israel war could push fuel prices even higher, warning motorists to prepare for increased costs at the pump. Speaking at the Southern Africa Oil and Gas Conference currently underway in Cape Town, Mantashe said the conflict has intensified volatility in global oil markets, which has already translated into higher crude prices and rising costs for fuel‑importing countries such as SA. The conference has drawn industry leaders, policymakers and investors to discuss Southern Africa’s energy future and explore opportunities in the region’s oil and gas sector, including security of supply, investment requirements and long‑term energy planning. Channel Africa’s Economics Reporter, Innocent Semosa, is attending the event and filed this report.

South Africa’s (SA) President, Cyril Ramaphosa, has called for stronger collaboration and increased investment in transport infrastructure to support economic growth in SA and across the African continent. Delivering the keynote address at the inaugural National Transport Conference at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, the President emphasised that an efficient, integrated and reliable transport system is essential for boosting trade, improving mobility and driving development. The three‑day conference brings together government leaders, investors and industry stakeholders to explore solutions for modernising the transport sector and unlocking new economic opportunities. Our Reporter, Lebogang Mabange, has more.

As the US–Israeli conflict with Iran enters its third week, global oil prices remain elevated, with Brent crude trading above $103 per barrel. Independent economist John Loos says that in South Africa, private transport users are likely to face the most severe direct impact of transport‑cost inflation as the higher cost of petrol feeds through to household budgets. Loos warns that elevated fuel prices will significantly increase monthly transport expenses, particularly for workers who rely on private vehicles for commuting, adding further strain to already‑pressured consumers. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Independent Economist John Loos.

FNB Senior Economist Koketso Mano unpacks South Africa’s latest economic indicators, including the economy’s 1.1% growth, last month’s inflation figures, and retail sales results for January.

Africa’s tourism and hospitality sector is showing strong growth, with hundreds of new hotels and resorts planned across the continent. A new report by the W Hospitality Group reveals that 675 hotels and resorts are currently in development in Africa, reflecting growing investor confidence in the region’s tourism potential and long‑term market prospects. Our Reporter Lebogang Mabange has more.

Rwanda plans to invest up to $6 billion in a nuclear power plant to secure reliable electricity supply and support long‑term economic growth. The country aims to deploy small modular reactors (SMRs) to expand its generation capacity and drive industrial development. The East African nation hopes to have its first nuclear power facility operational around 2030, as part of its broader ambition to achieve high‑income status by 2050. From March 2 to 9, 2026, a team from the International Atomic Energy Agency visited Rwanda to review the country’s progress in developing the required infrastructure and assessing its preparedness for the Rwanda Nuclear Power Programme. Thami Ngubeni spoke to energy analyst Tshepo Kgadima.

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 has surged by about 70% in just one week. With no clear end in sight to the conflict, and continued volatility in global energy markets, FlySafair says the surcharge is necessary to sustain its operations and maintain service levels without compromising safety. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Aviation Analyst Dr Guy Leitch.

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 placed additional strain on regional connectivity. Africa’s tourism sector is already feeling the pressure, as safety concerns and flight disruptions through major Gulf transit hubs threaten inbound travel to the continent. Industry players warn that this could lead to declining visitor numbers and reduced tourism revenue, particularly for destinations heavily reliant on long‑haul travellers. CEO of Cape Town Tourism, Enver Duminy, discusses the impact the Middle East conflict is having on tourism in Cape Town and the rest of South Africa.

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 declining oil revenues, combined with rising public expenditure, have weakened Gabon’s fiscal position, increasing fiscal risks and underscoring the urgent need for more sustainable economic management. In response, Gabon has now formally requested a programme from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The move is expected to help stabilise the country’s finances, improve transparency and strengthen governance across key economic sectors. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Dr Tafadzwa Ruzive, a post‑doctoral researcher at the University of the Free State’s Office of International Affairs.

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. Nedbank’s Pitch & Polish, a long‑running entrepreneurial development programme powered by business incubator Raizcorp, has over the past 15 seasons supported entrepreneurs in refining their strategy, strengthening their business systems and building more resilient enterprises. The programme focuses on developing practical business skills, sharpening business models and assisting entrepreneurs to present their ideas more effectively to potential investors. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Monique Chinnah, Senior Manager at Nedbank.

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 Transformation,” the gathering marks two decades of advancing African research excellence and youth empowerment. The conference brings together emerging scholars, researchers and thought leaders from across the continent to explore how technology‑driven innovation can shape Africa’s development agenda. Channel Africa’s Economics Reporter, Innocent Semosa, has more.

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 Africans, including those who may not have traditional bank accounts. Nhlanhla Mahlangu reports.

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, providing key insights into production performance and financial stability as geopolitical uncertainty continues to influence commodity markets. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Anri Brink, Investment Strategist at Absa Investments.

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 economic conditions across the continent, which have reduced household spending, as well as rising competition from global and regional streaming platforms. The company also announced that it will shut down its over‑the‑top platform, Showmax, citing high operating costs and prolonged underperformance. Thami Ngubeni spoke to TV and Film Journalist Thinus Ferreira.

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 people, while also strengthening economic ties between the two nations. However, the Ambassador warned that Washington is growing increasingly impatient with what he described as Pretoria’s lack of progress on a “list of five asks” that the United States presented to the South African government about a year ago. He did not disclose the details of the five requests, but indicated that movement on them is essential for deepening bilateral cooperation. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Dr Sizo Nkala, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Centre for Africa–China Studies at the University of Johannesburg.

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 (CGV) designed to attract private capital into resilient infrastructure projects. The Washington‑based lender will work alongside national and international development partners to support South Africa’s broader reform agenda, including unlocking finance for energy, transport, water and other critical sectors. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Bani Kgosana, Chief Revenue Officer at Pragma.

In this week’s Standard Bank slot, we turn our attention to the Proudly South African Buy Local Summit & Expo, taking place on the 16th and 17th in Johannesburg, South Africa. Standard Bank is the headline sponsor of this annual event, reaffirming the bank’s commitment to strengthening the domestic economy through localisation and SME empowerment. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Nokhanyo Ntshingila, Senior Manager for Enterprise & Supplier Development Programmes at Business and Commercial Banking South Africa at Standard Bank Group.

The Icebolethu Foundation has, over the past seven years, actively empowered Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through targeted initiatives, including its signature eKasi Business Fair and Supplier Development Programme. These programmes aim to integrate township and rural businesses into the broader economy by offering access to markets, mentorship and funding opportunities. Most recently, the Icebolethu Foundation launched a new initiative in partnership with public‑ and private‑sector companies to help SMMEs scale their operations and drive job creation. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Ayanda Mcoyi, Manager at the Icebolethu Foundation.

South Africa’s economy recorded modest growth in the final quarter of 2025. Figures released by Statistics South Africa show that Gross Domestic Product grew by 0.4%, up slightly from 0.3% in the third quarter. Channel Africa’s Economics Reporter, Innocent Semosa, reports.

Burkina Faso has unveiled a $64‑billion National Development Plan (PND) for the period 2026–2030, aimed at transforming its economy and promoting inclusive, sustainable growth. The plan focuses on four strategic priorities, including enhancing security and strengthening social cohesion, viewed as essential foundations for long‑term development. Key objectives of the PND include expanding local processing of raw materials, increasing the mining sector’s contribution to the national economy and developing infrastructure that supports industrialisation and value‑addition. Authorities say the plan represents a significant step toward diversifying the economy and reducing vulnerability to external shocks. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Bernard Ouandji, Former Senior Economist for the United Nations.

It is reported that South Africa’s Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) is set to hold talks with major trade‑union federations in an effort to halt ongoing protests, demonstrations and marches at its offices by public‑service workers. The workers say they are “united and outraged” by the recent premium increases. The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA), along with other trade‑union bodies, has called for the immediate withdrawal of the 9.5% increase and is demanding the development of a more affordable contribution structure through meaningful consultation with organised labour. Thami Ngubeni spoke to FEDUSA’s General Secretary, Riefdah Ajam.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged stronger economic ties between South Africa and Brazil, telling investors that the two countries should position themselves as strategic gateways to each other’s regional markets. Speaking at the Brazil–South Africa Business Forum during his state visit to Brazil on Monday, Ramaphosa said South Africa could serve as Brazil’s entry point into African markets through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), while Brazil could act as South Africa’s gateway into Latin America. Channel Africa’s Reporter, Micheal Mbewe, filed this report.

Thanda Sithole, Senior Economist at FNB, unpacks South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as well as the latest mining and manufacturing data.

Money laundering and the financing of terrorism remain pressing concerns in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, prompting member states to intensify efforts to safeguard financial systems. Central banks across the region have responded by establishing bilateral and multilateral agreements to enhance regional financial integration, strengthen payment systems and advance monetary stability. In a recent development, the Bank of Namibia and the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) have signed a revised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening institutional cooperation between the two central banks. The updated agreement will support closer collaboration in areas such as financial surveillance, regulatory frameworks, payment systems, and cross‑border financial stability. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Yolanda Vatsha, Spokesperson for the South African Reserve Bank.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is in Brazil for a state visit, where he will meet his counterpart, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The visit aims to strengthen diplomatic and political ties while boosting economic and commercial relations. Brazil, Latin America’s largest economy, remains a key strategic partner for South Africa as it works to expand trade, investment and cooperation across multiple sectors. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Thembisa Fakude, Senior Researcher and Director at Afrasid.

Global oil prices have surged past $100 per barrel for the first time since 2022, driven by the escalating war involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Analysts warn that the spike in energy costs is fuelling global inflation and could stall economic recovery in Europe and Asia, where energy‑intensive industries are already under pressure. Allianz Trade, in its report “Conflict in the Middle East: Implications for Markets and Macro”, notes that while immediate market reactions to geopolitical escalations are sharp, the extent of long‑term economic damage will depend largely on how long the conflict persists and whether it disrupts major supply routes. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Luke Morawitz, Allianz Trade’s Country Manager for South Africa.

The US dollar has lost about 10% of its value against major currencies since January 2025, its weakest performance since 2017. However, economists say a softer dollar is not entirely negative, as it creates space for further monetary‑policy easing and reduces the burden of dollar‑denominated debt for emerging markets. Coface Chief Africa Economist, Aroni Chaudhuri, says a weaker dollar helps ease depreciation pressures on the rand, lowering imported inflation. But he notes that it also creates challenges for export‑driven industries that rely heavily on the US market,  particularly those currently facing significant tariffs. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Coface Chief Africa Economist Aroni Chaudhuri.

The 2026 edition of Investing in African Mining Indaba concluded in Cape Town, South Africa, underscoring Africa’s central role in a renewed geopolitical race for critical minerals. Copper, lithium and other strategic resources are increasingly viewed as essential to global defence, energy security and artificial‑intelligence development. A key focus this year was the US‑backed Lobito Corridor, a major infrastructure initiative aligned with the Trump administration’s 2026 critical minerals agenda. The project aims to diversify copper and cobalt supply chains away from Chinese dominance by linking the mineral‑rich Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia to Angola’s Atlantic coast. Thami Ngubeni spoke to Abigail Hunter, Executive Director of the Centre for Critical Minerals at Securing America’s Future Energy.

The Gabonese High Commissioner to South Africa, Ambassador Rodrigue Rembendambya, says Gabon is prioritising regional integration and economic transformation as part of reforms under its new political dispensation. Speaking to Channel Africa Rembendambya said the country's Fifth Republic, led by Brice Nguema, is focusing on local processing of natural resources, agricultural self-sufficiency and improved social services following recent political reforms....

Brand Finance has released two new rankings: one on the world's most valuable and strongest banking brands, and another on the top telecom brands globally. The Global Banking Brands 2026 report shows that South African banks continue to dominate Africa's brand value rankings and consistently achieve some of the strongest brand strength scores worldwide. Meanwhile, the Telecoms 150 2026 report shows that Safaricom and MTN rank as the 5th and 6th strongest telecom brands globally, driven largely by exceptionally strong domestic brand perceptions. Thami Ngubeni spoke to David Wingfield, Strategy and Insight Consultant at Brand Finance Africa...