Table of contents for 2025-08-07 in Mercury

MTN South Africa has announced the full-scale deployment of digital ID system with real-time biometrics on any device across all MTN stores nationwide as it seeks to transform the customer experience and strengthening identity security. The rollout follows a highly successful six-month pilot across 20% of its stores, where the biometric identification system significantly improved onboarding efficiency and reduced identity fraud, all while delivering a more seamless customer experience. Building on this momentum, MTN is now the first mobile operator in South Africa to implement this technology at scale. Cornelia van Heerden, Executive: Customer Operations, MTN South Africa, said, “At MTN, our customers are at the heart of everything we do. The deployment of this biometric system is part of our ongoing investment in innovation that makes our customers’ lives…

South Africa, currently selling about 1 000 electric vehicles (EV) a year constituting 1% of the 13 million vehicles on the road, is still miles from realising its EV ambitions. Panelists at a discussion on a South Africa's EV roadmap on Wednesday said the country's ambitions were hampered by infrastructure, energy uncertainty, policy developments, decarbonisation deadlines, fuel quality, import tariffs, and the pricing to suit the market. They pointed to the high grid carbon intensity, which will have to be reduced to comply with Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms (CBAM) and other decarbonisation penalties. The discussion was a reflection on the Norwegian experience, which has been in the fast lane to electrify its passenger car sales by 2025. In the first half of 2025, all-electric cars made up a record 94.3%…

“Being a mom has made me a better businesswoman, and let’s face it, when you have little kids you stop stressing the little things, because you simply don’t have time to. “I have always felt being a woman in business was an advantage, not a disadvantage, and being a mom even more so.” I read this in Harvard Business Review, and I couldn’t agree more, especially when it comes to leadership. Working mothers represent a new breed of leaders. Yes, you read it correctly. The women juggling diapers, deadlines, schoolwork and dinner duties have a secret weapon: a unique mix of talents that make them untapped powerhouses in the boardroom. Today's rapidly evolving work requires a new era of thinking. We often underestimate how real-life experience can be applied in…

As a business owner, your network is more than a list of contacts - it’s a growth engine. This is especially true for startups, with one study revealing a direct correlation between the number of networking activities an entrepreneur engages in and their likelihood of achieving profitability, revenue growth, innovation, access to funding, and strong talent. The value of collaborations or partnerships is equally compelling. A McKinsey study found that organisations combining multiple collaboration mechanisms – including partnerships – are more likely to outperform peers, launching nearly twice as many successful business initiatives and growing market share at significantly higher rates. Whether it’s a distribution alliance, a referral agreement, or a strategic collaboration, building the right business relationships can open doors to new markets, shared resources and greater resilience. Here…

Sirius Real Estate said Wednesday it had acquired business parks in Dresden, Germany for €23.4 million (R484.4m) and Bedford, UK for £16.13m (R385.1m). Sirius, the London and JSE-listed owner and operator of branded business and industrial parks providing conventional space and flexible workspace in Germany and the UK, said in a statement that both transactions were identified and purchased off market. "Following last year's successful equity raise and bond issuances, along with our recently secured €150m revolving credit facility, we are strongly capitalised to continue executing accretive acquisitions across the UK and Germany, with these latest transactions a clear demonstration of our sourcing capabilities," said Sirius’ CEO Andrew Coombs. The Dresden site is a 21 158 square metre light industrial park occupied by the vendor who has entered into a…

While your glasses help you to see clearly, they are a powerful statement, an extension of your personality, and one of the first things people notice about you. From classic tortoiseshell to bold, thick-rimmed frames, your eyewear choices are a blend of function and fashion that communicate who you are before you even say a word. But there’s more to the story than just the frames. The lenses themselves are the unsung heroes of modern eyewear, providing not only clear vision but also crucial support for your lifestyle. They’re a testament to how you see the world, and how you want the world to see you. Just like your clothing, your glasses are a key part of your personal style. “Frames are one of the first things people notice, they…

A report by the Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) has raised concerns about the eThekwini Municipality's ability to respond effectively to natural disasters. The report highlights numerous issues that could impede the city’s ability to coordinate and respond to natural disasters, including staff vacancies. Over the past five years, eThekwini Metro has been among the municipalities with the highest number of disaster incidents. The entire province is grappling with weather extremes, fires, limited resources, vulnerable communities, and inadequate infrastructure. The report found that in eThekwini, there is inadequate staff capacity. The information management and communication system is hosted by another unit, making it difficult for the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) to execute its legislative mandate. It was also noted that the Disaster Management Framework is outdated and…

ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa says the party is struggling to understand the decision by the South African Communist Party (SACP) to contest the upcoming 2026 local government elections independently. “The National Executive Committee (NEC) took time to have an in-depth discussion on the decision of the South African Communist Party to contest the forthcoming elections independent of the ANC,” he said. Ramaphosa made the comments following the conclusion of the party’s four-day NEC meeting at the Germiston Civic Centre on Monday. “We recognise that the South African Communist Party is an independent political organisation that has the right to contest elections as it sees fit,” he said. He added that the ANC has no desire or intention to interfere with the SACP’s decision, but “as we have indicated to the…

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has declined to pursue criminal charges in an animal cruelty case involving EFF leader Julius Malema. The case relates to a widely circulated 2023 video in which Malema was seen attempting to slaughter a cow. The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) alleges that the act contravened the Animals Protection Act, citing “unnecessary suffering” inflicted on the animal. The NSPCA confirmed it opened a formal case in September 2023, submitting video evidence, affidavits, and the testimony of a key eyewitness who had captured additional footage of the incident. The NSPCA said the NPA informed them that “the prosecution would not be able to adduce sufficient evidence to prove beyond reasonable doubt” that the law had been broken. The NPA also cited concerns regarding the “authenticity” of…

We’re 12 races deep into the 2025 Formula 1 season, and it looks like McLaren have a firm grip on both titles. That being said, the first half of the season has not been short of big overtakes, big crashes, and first-time big moments for some. We highlight some of the most wholesome and adrenaline-filled moments, as well as some of the biggest disappointments from the first half: Best Team: McLaren It’s no surprise who takes top honours in this category, as McLaren have led from start to finish in this first segment of the F1 season. Dominant in almost every aspect of the sport — from car construction and communication to strategies and pit stop performances — McLaren have been the most solid unit. Some argue that they benefit…

Pretoria swimmer Pieter Coetze said he is honoured to be named in the same league as former Proteas swimmers and his icons like Roland Schoeman and Chad le Clos. Coetze won three of South Africa’s four medals at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, including the country’s only gold in the 100m backstroke. In doing so, he set a new African record and became world champion — a dream he has had since taking the sport seriously. The 21-year-old also earned silver medals in the 50m and 200m backstroke events, while Kaylene Corbett secured a bronze in the 200m breaststroke. Those results came on the back of a taxing schedule. A Tuks alum, Coetze had just returned from Germany, where he competed at the World University Games. There, he won…

MTN drops concerns over proposed merger between The Prepaid Company and Cell C MTN no longer has concerns regarding the proposed merger between The Prepaid Company (TPC) and struggling Cell C, which the Competition Commission feels will get a new lease of life under majority control by Blue Label Telecoms. Blue Label’s interests in Cell C are held through TPC. The Competition Tribunal is holding a hearing into the acquisition of a controlling stake in Cell C by TPC. Advocate Themba Mahlangu, representing the commission at Wednesday’s hearing at the Tribunal, said Cell C stood to get a new lease of life under majority control by Blue Label. This had helped the Commission to consider approving the merger and acquisition transaction at a time Cell C has been facing turbulent…

Merlog Foods is calling on the Border Management Authority (BMA) to implement the use of an online electronic verification system to verify health certificates and prevent further delays to poultry imports. These delays, caused by a reliance on paper-based certificates, are undermining food security and contributing to rising protein costs in South Africa. Veterinary health certificates for poultry exports from Brazil are issued both as hard copies and as secure electronic records accessible through an internationally recognised online portal. Both the Border Management Authority and the Directorate of Animal Health under the Department of Agriculture already have access to this online system. Currently, even when poultry shipments are pre-cleared using the online system, the poultry is held at a South African port until the original paper-based certificates arrive, which adds…

The recent announcement of a diesel price hike has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s vital trucking and agricultural sectors. Effective from Wednesday, prices for Diesel (0.05% sulphur) have surged by 65 cents per litre, while Diesel (0.005% sulphur) has seen an increase of 63 cents per litre. This news follows a decrease in petrol prices earlier in August, adding a layer of complexity to the economic landscape. Tonny Molise, deputy president of the Truckers Association of South Africa (TASA), said they noted that diesel price increases were implemented alongside the recent decision to lower the interest rate by 25 basis points. “While fuel hikes inevitably raise operational costs in the road freight and logistics industry, we welcome the interest rate cut as a much-needed stimulus for the economy. The lower…

Despite a challenging economic period, there are clear signs of recovery and reason for optimism within the South African small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) landscape. This was according to a recent Lula Pulse Report, which revealed that while many businesses are still operating under tough conditions, there are "green shoots" that point to a more positive future. “Small and medium-sized businesses are the lifeblood of our economy, employing up to 60% of the private sector workforce and generating approximately 40% of the country's GDP,” Lula’s Chief Risk Officer, Garth Rossiter said. “We’re seeing the mood on the street being surprisingly resilient. Despite the lingering clouds of geopolitical uncertainty, a palpable sense of optimism is taking hold, with both businesses and consumers feeling more confident about the future. There is a…

Jubilee Metals Group’s Roan copper concentrator in Zambia is fully operational following an upgrade, exceeding July’s targeted production by reaching 384 tons of copper units. The mining group, which aims to become a significant copper explorer, miner, and producer of concentrates and refined cathodes in Zambia, stated in an update on Wednesday that Roan’s production in August was already above the targeted production rate of 350 tons. The Roan project, first announced by Jubilee in 2021 and upgraded in phases, is the cornerstone of the company's copper production ambitions alongside the Sable refinery. Jubilee is currently disposing of its South Africa-based chrome and platinum operations, with agreements in final form, and a shareholders' meeting is being scheduled soon. Jubilee's share price sank 5.4% to 70 cents on the JSE on…

The Alexandra Magistrate’s Court heard yesterday that murder-accused businessman Katiso ‘KT’ Molefe was in constant communication with his co-accused and transferred huge sums of money shortly after the murder of DJ Sumbody in November 2022. Molefe, who was arrested last month by the police’s political killings task team in Gauteng, appeared in court yesterday for a formal bail application. He is facing multiple charges, including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. His three co-accused, Musa Kekana, Michael Pule Tau and Floyd Mabusela, have opted not to apply for bail. Molefe is charged with the murders of Oupa ‘DJ Sumbody’ Sefoka, his two bodyguards, and Hector ‘DJ Vintos’ Buthelezi. The State is opposing bail and submitted an affidavit to the court from the investigating officer…

The South African government has raised “deep concern” following the arrival of convicted criminals, deported from the United States, in the neighbouring Kingdom of eSwatini. “South Africa is deeply concerned about the profile of these individuals and the potential adverse impact on South Africa’s national security and immigration policy, given the geographical proximity between the two sisterly countries,” said Chrispin Phiri, spokesperson for Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola. Phiri said South Africa has raised concerns with the Kingdom of eSwatini following confirmation by the acting spokesperson of the government, Thabile Mdluli, that the group of dangerous criminals of various nationalities landed in eSwatini. The convicted criminals were transported from the US on a special flight, with the potential of more criminals of similar profiles scheduled to follow. Their…

More than 300 low-voltage diesel generators shipped from China are currently stored unused at a Durban hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, pending distribution to provinces. This was revealed by Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi when he was responding to parliamentary questions from Rise Mzansi leader and MP Songezo Zibi, who brought up concerns regarding the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health seeking additional funding to procure new generators while the donated ones were disused. The donated generators were part of the consignment received by Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa in November 2023 and August 2024 after they arrived at the Durban harbour. They were meant to be used to alleviate the impacts of load shedding in the delivery of services in clinics, schools and courts whilst government continues to implement the Energy Action Plan.…

Proteas batter Ryan Rickelton aims to cement his spot at the top of the order in the T20I side during the upcoming three-match series in Australia, as the Proteas look to find a settled squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup. Rickelton, though he has secured a place as an opener in the Test and ODI squads, is yet to make a mark in the shortest format, having scored only one half-century in 13 innings with an average of 20. However, the left-handed batter has all the shots and batting tempo to succeed as a T20I opener, as proven in the SA20 and IPL earlier this year. Coach Shukri Conrad has also backed Rickelton, making it clear that he will open the batting in Australia. The 29-year-old told the media…

Rugby Australia (RA) has signalled that more overseas-based players will be allowed to represent the Wallabies, shifting away from a strict policy that has heavily favoured domestic players. The so-called “Giteau Law" — named after former flyhalf Matt Giteau — has for years imposed restrictions on overseas-based players being selected for the Wallabies. But with Test stars such as lock Will Skelton, flanker Tom Hooper and prop Taniela Tupou all joining an exodus to Europe, RA has indicated the Giteau Law has been dropped. That gives head coach Joe Schmidt a free hand when he names his squad for the Rugby Championship this week. "Joe's got no impediment to select whoever he wants," RA head of high performance Peter Horne said. "The Giteau Law, it’s kind of redundant now,” Horne…

Siyabonga Mabena and the other youngsters are not expected to carry Mamelodi Sundowns this season, though they must strive to succeed with every passing game. Mabena made his long-awaited return to competitive football in the MTN8 quarter-final against Richards Bay last Sunday, following a lengthy injury layoff. The 18-year-old made his return count as he put the final nail in the coffin, helping Sundowns thrash Bay 4–0 to reach the semi-final, where they’ll face Orlando Pirates. Mabena’s comeback has fuelled belief among some Masandawana supporters that he will finally fulfil his potential this season and come of age. After all, his injury not only saw him miss the U20 AFCON — which Amajita won — but also ruled him out of the prestigious FIFA Club World Cup in the US…

The latest report from Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS), released this week, reveals troubling forecasts for South Africa's beef production, with estimates indicating a decline of 20 000 tons year-on-year, bringing total production down to 764 000 tons by 2025. Despite this downturn, the report affirms that the country maintains a supply surplus, albeit amidst a backdrop of significant challenges within the industry. RMIS notes the past five years have proven particularly challenging for both the beef and sheep sectors. A combination of rising feed costs, erratic weather patterns, ongoing loadshedding, and global disruptions stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to a perilous financial landscape for farmers, feedlots, and abattoirs. With profit margins squeezed, stakeholders have struggled against high input costs and weakened consumer demand. However, there is a…

Economic activity remained resilient through July though economic pressures persist, according to The BankservAfrica Economic Transactions Index (BETI). The BETI, which tracks the value of all electronic transactions cleared through BankservAfrica at seasonally adjusted real prices, continues to reflect South Africa’s underlying economic resilience amid prevailing risks and financial strain. Shergeran Naidoo, BankservAfrica’s Head of Stakeholder Engagements, said, “The BETI increased for the third consecutive month to reach an index level of 139.3 in July 2025, 0.2% up on June’s level." The BETI is up 1.9% year-on-year, signalling that the quarter two uptick in economic activity is extending into quarter three, albeit with slightly moderated momentum. “The economy continues to demonstrate resilience, though significant challenges and risks persist. In particular, uncertainty around the impact of US import tariffs — both…

As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month, our newsfeeds fill with praise for women who are breaking barriers, leading companies, and transforming communities. But behind many of these polished success stories lies a quieter truth: women entrepreneurs are burning out, that is emotionally, mentally, and physically. Burnout is often described as the cost of ambition. But for women in business, it’s not just ambition; it’s survival. The pressure to provide, lead, nurture, and hustle in a system that still doesn’t fully support them, which is relentless and often exhausting. Women entrepreneurs wear multiple hats. They are CEOs, administrators, marketers, and, when the workday ends, they become caregivers, partners, and emotional anchors at home. Unlike many of their male counterparts, women often can’t compartmentalise or simply separate personal and professional responsibilities. The…

Quilter, the UK wealth manager with listings in London and on the JSE, increased first half profit by 3% to £100 million and anticipates the second half result to be much in line due to stepped up brand spend and business investment plans. The interim dividend was raised 18% to 2 pence from 17 pence at the same time last year. Adjusted diluted earnings per share came to 5.4 pence, up 4% from 5.2 pence. “We have delivered strong flow momentum across the business with core net inflows up 160% to £4.5 billion,” CEO Steven Levin said in a statement. The company reported an operating margin of 30% despite lower interest rates reducing investment income on shareholders' funds. The company's Affluent business segment saw net inflows of 9% of opening…

The face of the average homebuyer in South Africa is changing, and increasingly, it is female, from single professionals to entrepreneurial mothers and retirees, and they are transforming the market, said REMAX Southern Africa regional director and CEO Adrian Goslett. Their influence is driving change across buyer priorities, development planning, and agent strategy across the country,” he said on Wednesday. Standard Bank head of Home Services Toni Anderson said their home loan data showed women had consistently made up 70% of all home loan clients in the past 19 years, whether as joint or sole applicants. However, in a noteworthy shift, nearly 40% of all main applicants for home loans today are women. “Even more compelling is the independence with which women are now entering the market. In the past…

Outdated information technology infrastructure, including a radio communication system that is now obsolete, old computers and telephone systems at 10111 centres are among the key resource challenges impacting on the South African Police Service (SAPS) in KwaZulu-Natal. This is revealed in a report that was tabled before members of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in KZN during a meeting with SAPS leadership this week. The Mercury reported yesterday on some of the challenges outlined during the discussion but the report expands on the pressing matters. The report provides a detailed profile of the province, outlining the population that the police has to serve in comparison to their numbers. On the technological resources required by SAPS, the report states, “Information technology infrastructure remains outdated, especially in rural stations that still…

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme's student accommodation management processes and the involvement of third-party partners are currently under a comprehensive legal review. The student tertiary education financier said it is currently awaiting the outcome of this review and will implement the recommendations to enhance transparency, integrity, and efficiency in its payment processes. “NSFAS remains dedicated to supporting students and ensuring the timely and accurate disbursement of funds. We appreciate the cooperation of all stakeholders and remain committed to resolving these matters swiftly.” In a statement intended to provide clarity on the current status of payments related to student accommodation, NSFAS said payments for accommodation are made exclusively for claims that have undergone and satisfied all validation and verification procedures. It said the non-payment may result from claims involving students…

WhatsApp has announced significant steps to bolster user security. Through aggressive measures, including the proactive ban of millions of accounts linked to criminal networks, the messaging giant is striving to create a safer environment for its global user base. In the first half of this year alone, WhatsApp said it had detected and deactivated over 6.8 million accounts associated with criminal scam operations, mitigating potential harm to countless users. "The fight against scams is a relentless one, and we are continually evolving our defenses to stay ahead of bad actors," remarked Kojo Boakye, Vice President of Public Policy for Africa, the Middle East and Türkiye at Meta. "This is part of our unwavering commitment to protect our users, not just by banning malicious accounts, but by empowering individuals with the…

South African executives are increasingly turning to private security companies for tactical escorts and high-level protection as kidnappings and blue-light crimes surge, particularly in Gauteng. Phangela Group, a private security provider, said that demand for tactical escort services in unmarked vehicles has reached record levels as business leaders adapt to more sophisticated threats. “Executive threats are no longer opportunistic but coordinated,” said Chris Thornhill, CEO of Phangela Group. “We’re seeing organised crime syndicates targeting business owners, directors, and high-net-worth individuals with increasing sophistication including impersonating police, using fake uniforms, and forcing mobile banking transfers under duress.” Figures cited in recent reports show that kidnappings have more than doubled in five years, from 1 919 to 4 748 cases over a comparable three-month period. Gauteng recorded 2 499 of those incidents,…

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said the Gunners believe this season will be different as they aim to end a run of near misses in their pursuit of silverware. Arteta has not lifted a trophy since winning the FA Cup in his debut campaign in 2019/20. However, he has transformed Arsenal into consistent contenders. The Gunners have finished second in the Premier League for the past three seasons and reached the Champions League semi-finals last term for the first time since 2009. Now, with another major investment in the squad, the pressure is on Arteta to finally deliver silverware. Nearly £200 million (about R4.8 billion) has been spent on striker Viktor Gyökeres, midfielders Martín Zubimendi and Christian Nørgaard, centre-back Cristhian Mosquera, winger Noni Madueke and goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. “We know…

With the final rounds of the PNB Interclub Leagues set for Saturday, August 16, the stage is set for dramatic finishes to one of the tightest seasons in recent memory. Scoreboards are close, nerves are tight and the final push promises thrilling bowls across all divisions. In the Men’s First Division, Westville Bowling Club is hanging on to the lead after picking up 11.5 points against Umhlali CC, but Parkhill BC is hot on their heels after a commanding 13-point win over Hillary BC. With just 3.5 points separating the top two, both sides are bracing for a tense final round. Westville hosts Stella Park at home while Parkhill, also on home greens, take on Hillcrest. With both Westville BC and Parkhill in top form, the league title will come…

For years my colleagues up on the Highveld have been boasting that Joburg is where it's at. Being a true-blue Capetonian that lives off the fresh breeze of the ocean, I’ve always put up strong resistance. It’s not that I haven’t spent time up in the Big Smoke before, but this past week has had me hustling from West, East, South and North of this vast metropolis. Each day there’s been a sporting event/launch/match that requires my attention. From Jonty Rhodes’ birthday celebrations with Mahindra to MTN8 and Betway Premiership season-opening affairs to the grand Cricket South Africa (CSA) Awards, this Jozi town is certainly a sports journalists’ Mecca. The CSA Awards was certainly top of the list. While media are no longer flown up and lodged on the CSA…