South Africa

Spaza shop owners looking to grow their businesses can apply for support through the Spaza Shop Support Fund.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has reaffirmed South Africa's commitment to Pan-African solidarity, the rule of law and constructive continental dialogue on migration following the final communiqué issued at the 69th Ordinary Session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Authority of Heads of State and Government.

The monetary jurisdiction of Small Claims Courts across South Africa will increase from R20 000 to R30 000, effective from 1 August 2026, in a move aimed at increasing access to justice.

For Nkanyiso Eric Ngobese, receiving R40 000 worth of stock for his spaza shop is more than a business transaction. It is a milestone in his journey as a Durban township trader.

Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe has emphasised that South Africa must define its own just energy transition on its own terms, prioritising economic survival, energy security and poverty reduction.

Regional policymakers, business leaders, investors and development finance institutions are set to converge in Durban next week for the 9th Annual SADC Industrialisation Week, as Southern Africa seeks to strengthen industrial capacity, attract investment and accelerate economic transformation.

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has urged eligible voters to register or update their voter registration details online, reminding the public that its Online Voter Registration Portal is zero-rated across major mobile networks.

Western Cape Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism MEC Dr Ivan Meyer has encouraged businesses across the province to apply for the Export Competitiveness Enhancement Programme (ECEP), an initiative aimed at helping businesses expand into international markets and grow their export potential.

The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has approved departmental financial assistance of R3 million to enable both the South African Men’s and Women’s National Hockey Teams to participate fully funded at the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup.

Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina, says innovation, research and strong partnerships will be critical to securing South Africa's water future, as the country confronts growing challenges posed by climate change, ageing infrastructure and water demand.