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Standard Bank Personal and Private Banking (PPB) is accelerating the evolution of its branch network in response to changing customer behaviour and declining cash usage in certain areas with more branches set to become cashless in 2026. In 2025, the bank repurposed some of its traditional branches as part of a deliberate shift towards a …
Statement by Lisa Schickerling MP – DA Spokesperson on Police: The Democratic Alliance (DA) notes the brief court appearance yesterday, 2 February, of two men described as “VIP protectors” attached to the Mayor of Madibeng Municipality, who face charges of murder and defeating the ends of justice following the fatal shooting of South African Air …
Receive a sign up bonus from EasyEquities with our compliments. Then you should consider adding the stocks below to your EasyEquities portfolio… In South Africa, corporate income tax (CIT) is heavily concentrated. According to recent SARS data, a tiny fraction of companies—roughly 0.2% of all assessed businesses—contribute nearly 60% of the country’s total corporate tax revenue. …
Statement by Dr Delmaine Christians MP – DA Spokesperson on Higher Education and Training: The DA has today written to the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to present a report on the accreditation of private student accommodation and account for failures on the ground. This …
Statement by Michele Clarke MP – DA Spokesperson on Health: The Democratic Alliance (DA) is thrilled by the news of vaccine trials for HIV. While in an early trial phase, this shows South Africa’s brilliant medical research capabilities. This is a moment of hope. Our country has a deeply traumatic history with HIV/AIDS, which we …
Pretoria: Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (Manufacturing) (Pty) Limited (“Ford South Africa”) has appointed award-winning strategic communications leader Dustin Chick as Communications Director, effective 1 March. He joins Ford South Africa following an extensive career in reputation management and strategic communications, during which he has advised CEOs, large corporates, C-suite leaders, government ministers and …
If you enjoy the TechCentral Show (TCS) – and more broadly, TechCentral’s thoughtful, incisive conversations with technology leaders – you might want to subscribe so you never miss an episode. TechCentral produces a suite of high-quality podcasts covering the most important trends and players in South African tech, including Meet the CIO, TCS, TCS+ and …
South Africa is facing a fraud crisis. Over half a million South Africans were scammed in 2024/25, with an estimated 811,000 consumer fraud incidents, according to Statistics South Africa. Behind these figures are families stripped of hard-earned money, hopes derailed, and trust broken. The Direct Selling Association of South Africa (DSA) calls for vigilance, while …
The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) notes the impending resignation of the current DA leader, Mr John Steenhuisen, and wishes him all the best for the future. This development makes it important to point out that the Freedom Front Plus’s significant and sustained growth – for which the party is deeply grateful – is not […]
The post Freedom Front Plus’s growth not due to other parties’ problems appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
A deepening crisis over the management of South Africa’s worst Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak in history has escalated into a legal showdown between Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen and a coalition of… Language Diversity: South Africa’s media operates in 11 official languages, reflecting the country’s rich linguistic diversity. Read More at the Source
Taking place on Friday, 10 April 2026, the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run offers trail running enthusiasts a rare chance to experience the beauty and challenge of Table Mountain’s iconic trails. Celebrating its 13th edition, the 2026 event features two action-packed distances – +-16?km and +-24?km – weaving through some of Table Mountain’s most …
Sanlam Investments returns as the headline sponsor of the 2026 Africa's Green Economy Summit (AGES), for the third consecutive year, reinforcing its long-term commitment to unlocking global capital for Africa's sustainable future. The Summit will take place in Cape Town from 24 to 27 February 2026.
Over four days, AGES will accelerate Africa's transition to a just and inclusive green economy by directly connecting global investors with projects that can transform communities, industries and ecosystems. AGES connects global capital to African opportunities by showcasing investment-ready projects across renewable energy, green transport, water, waste, sustainable agriculture, green buildings, the blue economy and climate tech.
Now in its fourth year, AGES has showcased more than 90 investment-ready initiatives to date worth over US$8.7 billion. These initiatives range from entrepreneurial start-ups to national-scale infrastructure projects – proving Africa's green economy is not just vision, but viable opportunity.
Carl Roothman, CEO of the Sanlam Investment Group, emphasised that the company's philosophy of “holistic return” means measuring success not only in financial terms, but in the lives improved, jobs created, and ecosystems restored. “Performance matters – and so does its impact on people and planet. Our intention is to deliver competitive, risk‑adjusted returns and measurable social outcomes, investing in our collective future. Through platforms like AGES, we drive our purpose of backing businesses that create and retain jobs, scale renewable energy and fund critical infrastructure in Africa,” he said.
AGES 2026 will once again explore the full scope of the green and blue economy, with more than 40 investment-ready projects featured across two dedicated pitch stages. The Summit's investor-driven format enables delegates to explore the full green economy through investor roundtables, deal rooms and curated matchmaking with DFIs, venture capital funds, banks and asset managers. Nature and biodiversity finance will also take centre stage, highlighting the emerging markets for biodiversity credits and nature-based finance.
“Africa stands at the frontier of sustainable growth and opportunity,” said Roothman. “From renewable energy to the blue economy and circular industries, the continent is leading a new era of sustainable growth; one defined by innovation, inclusion and long-term value creation.
“We recognise that meaningful change requires collective action through strategic partnerships, which is why we are supporting AGES for the third year. Every investment, every solution we implement, creates lasting returns for ecosystems, communities and investors. Now is our moment to invest in the future we need.”
Join global investors, innovators, and changemakers at AGES 2026 in Cape Town, 24 to 27 February. Secure your place today via the AGES website and be part of Africa's sustainable growth story. Register via the AGES website (https://apo-opa.co/4tdTjfD).
Outcomes from AGES 2026 will advance Africa's pipeline of green economy projects, supporting the translation of commitments made in Cape Town into long-term investment and measurable impact across the continent.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.
Additional Links:
https://apo-opa.co/4kiGMn5
https://apo-opa.co/4tdTjfD
https://apo-opa.co/3NPNEw9
About Sanlam Investments:
Sanlam Investments is one of South Africa's largest black-owned asset management firms, managing assets of over R1.5 trillion. The company's purpose extends beyond wealth creation – it is dedicated to investing in the long-term sustainability of people, planet and profit to drive measurable impact.
About Africa's Green Economy Summit (AGES):
Africa's Green Economy Summit is part of the green economy portfolio of VUKA Group, which has over 20 years of experience serving Africa's business community. The summit connects global investors with African green projects to drive inclusive, sustainable growth across the continent.
VUKA Group:
Africa's Green Economy Summit is part of the green economy portfolio of VUKA Group (https://WeAreVuka.com), which has more than 20 years' experience in serving the business community across Africa.
The Springboks will return to Adelaide for only the second time ever when they kick off their 2027 Rugby World Cup campaign against Italy on Sunday, 3 October, before heading to Brisbane and Perth to face Georgia and Romania in their two remaining pool matches. World Rugby announced RWC 2027 schedule, that will play out …
Profmed CEO, Craig Comrie, examines the cost pressures, policy uncertainty and practical reforms needed to build a healthcare system that works for all South Africans. South Africa has entered 2026 facing a familiar but intensifying healthcare paradox. It is another election year, with local government elections due to take place from November and healthcare will …
Alra Park pensioners want indigent relief and debt cancellation
On 30 January 2026 the Zeekoevlei Yacht Club (ZVYC) and partners issued an “Urgent Demand for Action” to the Executive Mayor of Cape Town, requesting a concrete plan to reopen the Ramsar site due to ongoing sewage flow and health risks. The communication highlighted the impact on over 10,000 young people and community members, demanded …
The Department of Health will today kick off its 2026 Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination drive. The drive is aimed at vaccinating girls aged 9 years and older to protect them from developing cervical cancer later in life. “South Africa continues to record a high number of cases of cervical cancer and related deaths annually, …
APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading multi-award-winning, pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is pleased to announce the promotion of João Marques to Executive Director, Strategic Advisory. The appointment, effective 1 December 2025, reflects APO Group's commitment to strengthening its strategic advisory capabilities for clients across Africa and around the world.
João, who previously served as Director of Strategy, brings more than 15 years of experience in international strategy, corporate positioning, and high-level advisory support. Since joining APO Group, he has led the company's Strategy Division, advancing its narrative design frameworks, thought-leadership programmes, and executive advisory offerings for governments, global corporates, and development institutions.
A multilingual strategist fluent in English, Portuguese, French, and Spanish, João has worked across Africa, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, advising organisations such as the United Nations Global Compact, Nestlé, Emirates, Canon, NBA Africa, and Afreximbank. His expertise blends strategic consulting with creative storytelling, helping clients articulate policy and business priorities with clarity, credibility, and global resonance. João is also a published author and a recognised speaker and moderator, bringing deep expertise in geopolitical and sectoral issues to senior leaders navigating Africa's communications landscape.
In his new role as Executive Director, Strategic Advisory, João will oversee APO Group's strategic consulting portfolio, expand C-suite advisory services, and strengthen the company's positioning as a trusted partner for organisations seeking to enhance reputation, influence, and impact across Africa's key markets. He will also lead the development of strategic pathways for high-growth industries and deepen APO Group's ability to convert advisory work into long-term commercial value.
Bas Wijne, CEO of APO Group, said, “João has been a driving force in elevating our strategic advisory practice and strengthening our value proposition to businesses across the continent and beyond. His appointment as Executive Director is a natural evolution of his contributions to APO Group's growth, reputation, and strategic direction. I look forward to working even more closely with him as we continue to expand our advisory capabilities and deliver world-class strategic counsel to our clients.”
“Africa's communications landscape is transforming, and organisations across the continent need partners who can help them articulate ambition, build trust, and shape narratives with long-term impact. I am proud to take on this role at a moment when APO Group is expanding its strategic advisory footprint, and I look forward to contributing to work that strengthens African institutions, industries, and ideas,” added João.
João also serves as a strategic advisor to various international initiatives that support innovation and sustainable development in emerging markets, further reinforcing APO Group's commitment to driving positive impact across Africa.
With this appointment, APO Group continues to invest in top-tier strategic talent and strengthen its leadership in the African communications and advisory landscape.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.
Media contact:
marie@apo-opa.com
About APO Group:
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally.
Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa in 2024 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, we were honoured with the Gold distinction for Best PR Campaign and Bronze in the Special Event category at the Davos Communications Awards.
APO Group's esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa's Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.
The water supply to Kampersrus has been successfully restored after two weeks of severe disruption caused by flash floods. The floods damaged the main pipeline at a natural spring, plunging the town into an emergency situation. What initially appeared to be a paralysing crisis was overcome through remarkable cooperation between the local community, farmers and […]
The post Community restores water supply to Kampersrus following floods appeared first on Freedom Front Plus.
International tourist arrivals reach new heights Dear Fellow South African, Our country’s reputation as a premier global tourism destination has been buoyed by a major milestone. Between January and December 2025 approximately 10.5 million tourists visited South Africa, which is the highest number of international arrivals on record. This surpasses the number of visitors we …
ESI Africa proudly announces the release of the 10th Anniversary Edition of African Power & Energy Elites: Projects and People, a landmark publication spotlighting the executives, engineers, infrastructure projects and innovations shaping Africa's power, energy, water, transport, agriculture and healthcare sectors.
The 2025/2026 edition is themed “Energy, Water & Transport Beyond Borders”, capturing Africa's infrastructure renaissance in real time. From mega transmission projects and smart water systems to renewable energy corridors and digital platforms, the magazine chronicles how long-term strategy is becoming infrastructure, and how vision is translating into systems that endure.
The print edition will officially launch at Mining Indaba in February and will be distributed at key industry events throughout the year, including Enlit Africa in May. The digital edition is already available online.
What's inside the African Power & Energy Elites 2025/2026 Edition
Editor-in-Chief Nicolette Pombo-van Zyl asks:
“Do you hear the construction works underway as Africa's future rises in steel, concrete, fibre, electrons and flowing water?”
She adds:
“Long-term strategies and carefully considered policies support this build-out. While the leaders and projects featured in this 10th edition of The Elites may differ in geography, scale and sector, they are united by a shared ambition to translate vision into reality.”
The publication also explores emerging trends such as decentralised energy systems, AI-driven grid optimisation and circular water solutions, offering readers a comprehensive view of Africa's evolving infrastructure landscape.
African Power & Energy Elites 2025/2026 is published in collaboration with Conlog, African Legal Support Facility, GPT Renewable, Mzansi Energy, Shell and STS Association.
The digital edition is available at:
https://apo-opa.co/4qk3VXJ
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.
Media Contact:
Nicolette Pombo-van Zyl
Editor-in-Chief, ESI Africa
Email: nicolette@wearevuka.com
Website: www.ESI-Africa.com
About ESI Africa:
ESI Africa is the continent's leading source of power, energy and sector-coupling news, delivering trusted insights and connecting industry stakeholders for more than three decades.
Editor: Will the relatively easy Pool B that the Springboks find themselves in be a hinderance or an aid to another World Cup victory for Rassie’s men? The match schedule and ticket prices for Men’s Rugby World Cup Australia 2027 have been revealed, confirming dates, venues, and kick-off times for all 52 tournament matches. Fans …
Malcolm Libera ·2 Feb 2026 South Africa is heading for a potential tax shock as its already narrow tax base is concentrated among older individuals and a small group of high-earning taxpayers. This, while millions of younger citizens remain unemployed or earn too little to make a meaningful contribution to the fiscus. New data from …
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