South

As the diplomatic landscape continues to shift, tensions between South Africa and the United States appear to be escalating. However, amidst this backdrop of uncertainty, South Africa has made a pivotal gesture by inviting Nigeria to host a significant G20 event in Abuja. This invitation could potentially alter the dynamics of regional alliances and foster deeper collaboration between Africa's two most populous nations, effectively reshaping the continent's economic future. According to Africa Intelligence, the…

Since its inception, Starlink has swiftly positioned itself as a prominent player in the global satellite internet landscape, catering to millions of customers across Africa and beyond. Offering high-speed internet to diverse regions, its impact on connectivity is undeniably transformative. Yet, you might be surprised to learn that despite its rapid expansion, Starlink has yet to make its debut in South Africa, the homeland of its founder, Elon Musk. Recent investigations by BBC journalists have uncovered that…

South Africa has taken on a significant role as the chair of the G20, embodying the theme "Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability." Recently, the country hosted the second Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting in Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal, under the poignant banner, "Living and Working in an Unequal World: Ensuring Decent Work and Decent Lives." In an age where inequality seems to pervade every corner of society, discussions on gender equality and labor rights are not just timely; they are imperative. As the sun dipped below…

South Korea's Former Leader Yoon Suk Yeol Rejects Coup Allegations Over Martial Law Declaration South Korea's recently impeached President, Yoon Suk Yeol, insisted in court today that his brief declaration of martial law late last year "was not a coup d'état." Mr Yoon appeared at the Seoul Central District Court facing charges of inciting insurrection, charges he strenuously denies. The controversial martial law, lasting only around six hours before it was swiftly lifted amid strong parliamentary opposition and intense…

In a decisive move reflecting the evolving geopolitical landscape, South Africa has appointed Mcebisi Jonas as a special envoy to the United States. This strategic decision aims to mitigate the rising diplomatic tensions following Donald Trump's return to the presidency, a development that has stirred considerable discussion both domestically and abroad. President Cyril Ramaphosa, with the weight of his nation's interests on his shoulders, emphasized that Jonas will champion South Africa's diplomatic, trade, and bilateral…

South Africa Appoints New Envoy to the U.S. In a move that experts describe as both strategic and timely, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has appointed Mcebisi Jonas as the new envoy to the United States. This decision entrusts Jonas with the critical task of advancing South Africa’s diplomatic, trade, and bilateral priorities. A question arises immediately: Why Jonas, and why now? The backdrop to this appointment is a tapestry of strained relations. The past few months have witnessed a tumultuous…

Recently, China's Commerce Minister, Wang Wentao, conducted insightful conversations with Saudi Arabia's Commerce Minister, Majid bin Abdullah al-Qasabi, and South Africa's Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau. The primary focus of these dialogues was to deliberate on the growing pressure from U.S.-imposed "reciprocal tariffs." Can we ponder for a moment on what these diplomatic exchanges signify? Are they merely routine discussions, or do…

Expanding Horizons: First National Bank's Strategic Growth in Africa As the world watches, Africa is blossoming into a hub of economic opportunities, with many eyes drawn to its burgeoning affluent demographic. In the midst of this transformation, a subsidiary of South Africa’s financial powerhouse, FirstRand Ltd., is keenly setting its gaze on Ghana. But what prompts a bank to venture into another country's market? The answer lies in the undeniable growth of Africa's affluent…

In a significant move to invigorate local economies, the South African government has initiated applications for the R500-million Spaza Shop Support Fund (SSSF). This initiative aims to enhance the sustainability and growth of spaza shops—those familiar neighborhood convenience stores that serve as lifelines for township and rural communities. During a recent announcement, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, highlighted the transformative potential of this fund. “We are committed to empowering our…

On June 3rd, South Korea will conduct its presidential election, as announced by the acting president following the removal of former leader Yoon Suk Yeol, who faced impeachment following a controversial declaration of martial law. Since December, the nation has been without a clear leader, a situation that arose when Mr. Yoon attempted to undermine civilian governance, leading to his swift impeachment by the National Assembly. In a decisive ruling last week, the Constitutional Court upheld his impeachment, permanently…