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FA News | 21 July 2025 In a milestone event that underscored the power of collaboration between corporate South Africa and skills development providers, Standard Bank Insurance, in partnership with Octomate Education, hosted an inspiring Immersion Day. A Visionary Initiative The brainchild of Ms Sheila Mistry: Programme Manager for Standard Bank Insurance, the Immersion Day, coincided with Mandela Day. The programme was designed to bridge the gap between structured learning and real-world professional integration. The 65 unemployed learners are enrolled in the Wealth Management Level 5 Learnership. The event is a testament to the transformative impact of targeted skills programmes in the financial services sector. Welcoming the learners, Ms Emma Tisane, Programme Coordinator at Standard Bank Insurance, encouraged the learners to absorb as much as possible from the day’s programme. Testimonies from Alumni The highlight of the day was the presence of Octomate Education alumni, whose personal journeys resonated with the current cohort. Ms Sindisiwe Masina, an alumna from Assupol Unemployed Learnership 2019, now a top salesperson at Assupol, shared her inspiring journey from an unemployed learner to an industry leader. Her story underscored the lucrative opportunities available in the insurance sector for those who persevere, particularly in sales roles. Ms Phumla Mtshali, another alumna from the Doves Unemployed Learnership Long Term Insurance Level 4 class of 2017, recounted how the learnership experience facilitated her re-entry into the industry, ultimately leading to her current role as a claims processor at Assupol. Positioned for purpose Simphiwe Pfukwa, Director at Octomate Education, served as the event’s MC, sharing her own entrepreneurial journey and urging learners to embrace personal transformation as a catalyst for career advancement. Mr Abbot Pfukwa, CEO of Octomate Education, delivered a steering address emphasizing the importance of continuous transformation and growth. “This is just the beginning,” Mr. Pfukwa urged the learners to appreciate the opportunity from Standard Bank Insurance. This is the foundation of their greatness. Motivation from Industry Experts Mulligan Mathye, a respected Facilitator, cautioned against the myth of self-made individuals, reminding learners that growth and achievement are communal efforts-Ubuntu. He encouraged learners to view challenges as opportunities for growth, not as setbacks, reinforcing the importance of resilience and adaptability in their professional journeys. Adding further industry perspective, Mr. Sikheto Sambo, a seasoned insurance guru and Director at Marara Insurance Brokers, encouraged learners to cultivate loyalty and a positive attitude. His remarks reinforced the significance of professionalism and acquiring soft skills. A partnership for progress The partnership between Octomate Education and Standard Bank Insurance over the years has produced graduates, fit for purpose and equipped to thrive in the dynamic insurance industry. The 65 learners present are a testament to the programmes ongoing commitment to nurturing talent and supporting youth employment in South Africa. Learners spoke candidly about how the experience had reshaped their thinking, instilling a renewed sense of purpose to secure permanent employment within the financial services industry. Speaking on the sidelines of the event, both Mr. Jabulani Radebe: Training Partner at Standard Bank Insurance and Ms Sheila Mistry, emphasized the importance of passing regulatory examinations (RE5), to enhance learner employability within the industry. Conclusion Ms Sheila Mistry asked learners to reflect on their key takeaways, encouraging them to articulate their aspirations as they approach the end of the learnership. The immersion day concluded with a sense of optimism and gratitude. The learners were inspired, equipped with practical advice, industry connections and a renewed belief in their potential. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.fanews.co.za/article/people-and-companies/12/news/1163/standard-bank-insurance-unemployed-learners-immersion-day-a-beacon-of-hope-and-transformation-for-the-south-african-youth/42076

Dumisani Tshabalala | 16 July 2025 Today, as South Africa celebrates World Youth Skills Day with speeches and hashtags, a persistent question echoes beneath the vuvuzelas: are our classrooms shaping the skills that tomorrow’s economy will require, or merely polishing report cards for yesterday’s tests? Certificates hang proudly on lounge walls, but too many of their owners feel lost at university, adrift in their first jobs, or stuck when facing problems no textbook predicted. If we keep mistaking grades for growth, we risk creating paper success and practical stagnation. Good schooling is not measured by how much content a learner can recall, but by how effectively that content becomes a foundation for skills. Ask a Grade 12 learner to quote Newton’s laws, and many will oblige; ask the same learner to design a simple pulley and far fewer succeed. Mathematics, history, and life sciences should ignite curiosity, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. However, when facts are disconnected from purpose, the high marks they produce easily slip through opportunities and then collapse. Learning must ignite before teaching can guide it towards tangible competence. In the best classrooms, every subject sparks discovery before delivering instruction. Mathematics exemplifies this: instead of rehearsing predictable routines, teachers nurture curiosity to explore beyond worked examples, build vocabulary to pose precise questions, and develop reasoning to test ideas. A pupil who models a pattern or challenges a claim is already practising mathematics as a language of inquiry. The consequences of neglecting skills are clear. Data from the Council on Higher Education’s VitalStats Public Higher Education 2022 show that less than half of students who start university finish their degrees within six years, revealing weak analytical and academic-literacy foundations. Employers also notice this gap: the 2023 BankSETA and merSETA Employment Outlook survey found that nearly a third of firms view graduates’ communication and collaboration skills as inadequate for the modern workplace. Graduates fluent in theory often go quiet in agile meetings; excellent with prescribed problems, they falter when the brief changes. Technology raises the stakes. Artificial intelligence now drafts legal briefs, manages supply chains, and edits film trailers. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs 2025 warns that roles like data-entry clerk and payroll officer are disappearing, while demand grows for AI prompt engineers, renewable energy technicians, and cybersecurity analysts. Those who can frame precise questions for machines will thrive; those who only consume algorithmic output will see opportunities diminish. Unless classrooms become training grounds for data literacy, complex problem-solving, and ethical judgment, digital prosperity will mainly benefit the already privileged. Policy makers repeat the mantra of STEM and urge young South Africans to create jobs rather than queue for them. Yet fewer than one in six matriculants enrols in STEM degrees, and many arrive with little practice in risk-taking or teamwork, the heartbeat of enterprise. Laboratories, incubators and solar farms will not fill themselves with drill-and-practice pedagogy. Where learning meets doing, the story transforms. Skills-focused lessons conclude with two silent questions: what did I practise, and where will I apply it next? An essay on Romeo and Juliet becomes training in persuasive rhetoric; a photosynthesis investigation turns into data-visualisation practice; coding a simple game introduces logic, debugging, and iteration. Learners who experience such teaching leave understanding not only that carbon has four valence electrons but also how to turn an idea into a prototype, and a prototype into a pitch. Evidence is mounting. Pupils from under-resourced schools who accessed skill-rich programmes have earned doctorates, launched renewable energy firms, and stood on podiums at international robotics Olympiads. Their journeys trace back to classrooms that refuse to teach content in isolation from cognitive skills and capabilities. If we are serious about change, the curriculum must treat knowledge as a gateway to skill: a history debate trains evidence‑based argument; a chemistry experiment teaches protocol design and teamwork; a coding project builds logic and resilience. Teacher preparation must shift from marking schemes to coaching inquiry and empathy. Without mentors who model collaboration, graduates will never lead diverse teams. Schools need industry partners, apprenticeships, maker spaces, and neighbourhood hackathons to keep learning relevant as sectors evolve. And accountability must shift from applause to analysis: celebrating record averages without asking whether pupils can write a project proposal or read a dataset is praise without purpose. South Africa’s youth population will reach its peak within the decade. Invest this potential in developing skills, and the nation will have a generation ready to heal, build, and innovate. Waste it, and the cost will be measured in alienation and lost potential. Enter any classroom, pose a meaningful challenge, and guide learners until understanding emerges. Replace rote routines with the rhythm of skill, and watch dormant talent come alive. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://iol.co.za/news/opinion/2025-07-15-skills-not-just-grades-will-shape-south-africas-future/

Lisakanya Venna | 16 July 2025 Liquid Intelligent Technologies’ programme is equipping young innovators with digital skills, funding and mentorship. From the digital hubs of North West to the townships of the Eastern Cape, young South Africans face a daunting reality. According to Stats SA , youth unemployment reached 62.4% nationally for those aged 15 to 24 in the first quarter of this year. However, the Liquid Intelligent Technologies Youth Tech Entrepreneurship Programme is equipping young innovators with digital skills, funding and mentorship.  Last month, the programme celebrated 20 graduates at Liquid Intelligent Technologies’ Johannesburg headquarters. The event featured a pitchathon where four standout start-ups presented their innovations to a panel of industry judges.  ProLink, a digital platform connecting users with verified contractors in Mthatha, won the top prize of R100,000 in seed funding and a 12-month business support package.  “We have created employment opportunities by hiring two interns who are actively involved in platform development and community engagement,” said Qhawe Mlengana, chief project director at ProLink. Mlengana added that the startup was founded with the vision of not only connecting clients with certified professionals, but also empowering those in the informal sector who lack formal qualifications. Over the next year ProLink plans to launch their platform and scale their presence across the Eastern Cape. Tracking down livestock theft Other finalists included HerdTrace, which uses GPS-enabled ear tags and health monitoring to combat livestock theft; Otomex Innovations, leveraging AI to address mental health challenges; and The Eye of Tech, focused on expanding digital skills in rural communities.  “We started HerdTrace because we come from communities where livestock isn’t just income; it’s survival, education and legacy,” said Zusiphe Makeleni, head of marketing at HerdTrace. Makeleni shared the heartbreak of witnessing farmers losing livestock they rely on, with no safety net to fall back on.  This growing crisis has also caught the attention of political parties like the DA which highlighted a worrying increase in stock theft across the Eastern Cape. Recent figures show that stock theft cases have risen by 8.5%, with 1,628 incidents reported in the latest quarter alone.  For Makeleni, stock theft is more than a crime, “it threatens education, generational progress and dignity”. HerdTrace addresses this by using GPS-enabled ear tags, tamper alerts, health monitoring and geofencing to give farmers real-time updates and peace of mind.  Before joining the Youth Tech Entrepreneurship Programme, the team had passion and a clear problem but lacked the full business picture. The programme helped them to validate their market, sharpen their pitch and build a sustainable business model.  Mindful innovation  Meanwhile, Okuhle Badli, COO of Otomex Innovations, said their invention of MindPal isn’t “just a tech product”. “It’s a culturally attuned, locally designed mental health platform built for Africa’s realities,” he said. Badli added that gaining recognition and funding in the mental health sector had been challenging. To overcome this his team focused on purpose-driven innovation, building partnerships and creating their own pathways through bootstrapping and incubators.  MindPal is designed to be flexible and accessible. It also offers offline USSD access and scalable NGO and school partnerships, making it a trusted platform tailored specifically to the needs of African communities. What this means for you If you’re a young person with tech ambitions, the Youth Tech Entrepreneurship Programme could be your gateway.  The programme runs annually, with applications usually opening around March and April. Announcements are made on the Liquid Intelligent Technologies SA LinkedIn page and through their implementation partner, Deviare . The programme lasts 12 months, followed by an additional 12 months of support for winning entrepreneurs to help them grow their start-ups. Application criteria: Unemployed youth aged 18 to 35. Matric certificate required; tertiary qualification is a plus. An entrepreneurial mindset is essential. Selection includes aptitude testing. Turning challenges into opportunities The programme offers a year-long, MICT Seta-accredited curriculum in artificial intelligence and software development, combined with comprehensive mentorship, business development support and access to funding. Building a tech ecosystem The programme’s holistic approach ensures participants not only gain technical skills, but also develop the entrepreneurial acumen necessary to launch and scale their ventures.  ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2025-07-16-youth-tech-programme-sparks-jobs-and-innovation/

Nkosinathi Ndlovu | 16 July 2025 Policy reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment don’t go far enough, critics have warned. South Africa’s proposed changes to foreign ownership restrictions on local broadcasters do not go far enough to remove the “red tape” that inhibits foreign direct investment in the country’s broadcasting sector, according to the Free Market Foundation. Current legislation limits foreign investors’ voting rights to just 20%, even if their economic interest is higher. But a newly revised white paper on audio and audio-visual media services – published by the department of communications & digital technologies last week – proposes raising this limit to 49%. “Government wants to ensure that there is an enabling policy environment for increased foreign direct investment as a stimulus to the growth and development of the ICT sector as a whole. To this end, the limitations on foreign ownership in respect of linear individual audio-visual content services will increase,” said the white paper. But Martin van Staden, head of policy at the Free Market Foundation, said laws that place limitations on how foreigners can invest in the local economy should not exist at all. “If we look at the most successful economies in the world, they only got there because they had open markets for long periods of time. For a developing economy that is also getting poorer, we should be doing as much as we can to remove red tape and make it as easy as possible for foreign investors to do business here,” Van Staden told TechCentral. The proposed changes to local broadcasting legislation have been in development for years, with the first draft of the white paper making mention of them when it was published in 2020. TechCentral reported on their inclusion then, and in a subsequent 2023 version of the white paper, which also included exceptions for foreign investors from African Union member states. Companies from AU states that hold “reciprocal agreements” with South Africa could be allowed to have more than 50% shareholding and voter rights in a local broadcasting entity. The version published on Friday made no mention of this exception. Ownership limitations According to the white paper, the decision to change foreign ownership limitations was in part influenced by changes in technology that have redefined the broadcasting landscape by producing new kinds of content distribution platforms. This is in stark contrast to the days when broadcasting was mostly in the purview of governments. “Arguments have been raised in relation to ownership limitations, specifically because they are no longer appropriate for a multichannel digital audio and audio-visual content industry,” said the white paper. Another factor prompting the changes is the need to keep up with international trends in broadcasting sector regulation. “Other jurisdictions have been reviewing their ownership limitations to assess their relevance and effectiveness in a converged audio-visual media and content environment, and some regulatory authorities have relaxed or done away with ownership restrictions,” said the document. Foreign ownership restrictions have been a focal point of the ongoing acquisition of South Africa’s MultiChoice Group by French broadcaster, the London-listed Groupe Canal+. To work around the limitations, the merger parties have proposed splitting MultiChoice’s South African assets out of its holdings in the rest of Africa. The South African portion will adhere to local ownership rules while the rest of the business will be majority-owned by Canal+. “MultiChoice has historically supported government’s proposal to relax the ownership limitations in order to attract investment into the broadcasting sector,” MultiChoice said in response to a query from TechCentral. “We believe a relaxation would benefit new entrants and existing broadcasters, promote further competition in the sector and ultimately benefit the public interest. The benefits which arise from foreign investment in the sector include an influx of capital, transfer of technology and skills, and the ability to access foreign expertise.” William Bird, director of media watchdog Media Monitoring Africa, said easing restrictions makes business sense but this must not overshadow the public interest. “Relaxing restrictions on foreign ownership is not an unreasonable thing to do, especially considering the globalised environment we exist in and how rapidly business models in the media sector are evolving,” he said. “What you don’t want is foreign ownership to the extent that you see in other countries, like Zambia for example, where the public broadcaster is completely owned by foreign interests.” According to the white paper, continuing to restrict foreign ownership in the broadcasting sector is designed to preserve a plurality of perspectives and promote competition in the sector. Deregulation Added to this is a concern that foreign-owned media will be less inclined to prioritise the production of original South African content, thus threatening the promotion and celebration of local culture. Van Staden and the Free Market Foundation do not agree, arguing that such policies are designed to be exploited by the political elite in a similar way to how black economic empowerment has been used to enrich the politically connected. “These kinds of policies are used to draw politically connected individuals into businesses they would not otherwise be in on merit. If you want more local content, the only way is through deregulation, which allows competition to flourish,” said Van Staden.  – © 2025 NewsCentral Media ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://techcentral.co.za/south-africa-media-ownership-rules-remote/266889/

Professor Khehla Ndlovu | 17 July 2025 A year into South Africa’s national government of unity (GNU), the country’s young people remain trapped at the precipice of despair. The promise of job opportunities and pathways for entrepreneurship continues to diminish, especially in a world increasingly led by a youthful population whose inventive thinking often conflicts with the traditional methods of those in power. This disconnection is not merely an abstract idea; it is a tangible reality for millions, showing as a deep sense of exclusion and a suppression of potential. The grim reality of South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis is stark and well-documented. Statistics SA’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the first quarter of this year paints a sobering picture: young people aged 15-24 face a staggering unemployment rate of 62.4%, while those aged 25-34 contend with 40.4%. These are not just numbers; they represent a generation sidelined, their energy and creativity unharnessed.  With 20 million South Africans aged between 15 and 34, this demographic forms the largest segment of our population. This demographic dividend, a potential driver of economic growth and social progress, is instead becoming a source of national concern. This alarming reality requires urgent and decisive action, moving beyond mere discussion to implement tangible and impactful measures across all sectors of society.  Our collective response must begin at home, extend through our communities, reshape our educational institutions, and energise our civil, public, and private sectors. The goal should be to nurture an active, future-oriented population, equipped to become tomorrow’s leaders and innovators. Importantly, this quest for solutions must fully harness the transformative potential of technology.  The rapid rise of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), for example, should not be viewed with concern but as a significant opportunity. It prompts us to reconsider how we can utilise this technology to empower young people, unlock entrepreneurial talent, and boost economic development. It is time to move past the negativity rooted in a failure to recognise opportunities and instead embrace the immense potential within this digital frontier.  At the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), strategically located in one of Gauteng’s most influential industrial regions, we have long recognised this necessity. Our commitment goes beyond traditional academic teaching to proactive engagement with the digital future. Through initiatives like our Strategy 2033+, we focus on attracting and nurturing students with exceptional talent and potential, equipping them with the digital skills essential for a rapidly changing job market.  Our recent community service project, where our Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences assisted Suncrest High School’s 2025 Grade 12 students with online applications, showcases our commitment to closing the digital gap and promoting a culture of access and opportunity from the grassroots.  The Gauteng government’s commendable focus on the township economy has achieved significant progress in supporting existing businesses. Nonetheless, our efforts must also shift towards empowering young people in these communities who aspire to start their own ventures, developing solutions and products tailored to local needs.  This requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, particularly financial institutions. They must explore innovative, concessional financing models that recognise the unique challenges and vast potential of youth-led township enterprises. We cannot continue to champion the township economy while failing to equip its most dynamic segment – our youth – with the necessary skills and financial lifelines.  This year’s UNESCO theme, “Youth empowerment through AI and digital skills,” resonates profoundly with South Africa's challenges and aspirations. As a global community, we are collectively seeking solutions that improve young people’s skills for both employment and entrepreneurship. UNESCO and other UN agencies have consistently supported the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To truly accomplish these goals, we must put our solutions at the centre of the ingenuity and motivation of our young people, recognising them not merely as beneficiaries but as co-creators of our future.  Furthermore, the latest World Economic Forum’s World of Work report underscores that “technological change, geoeconomic fragmentation, economic uncertainty, demographic shifts and the green transition – individually and in combination – are among the major drivers expected to shape and transform the global labour market by 2030.” While these are global forces, South Africa has a unique opportunity to lead in adapting and innovating. We can and must surpass the mediocre leadership that has often characterised our response to the challenges faced by our young people. This moment calls for visionary, agile, and collaborative leadership that recognises the urgency of digital transformation.  At VUT, our concern about the high rate of youth unemployment runs deep. However, concern alone is not enough. We are committed to rolling up our sleeves and taking action that goes beyond mere talk. This commitment is reflected in concrete steps that clearly show our determination to make a difference.  Skills development, especially in digital and AI skills, provides a strong pathway to solutions. Learning institutions are no longer static brick-and-mortar places; they are active partners in national growth, evolving to effectively address today’s complex challenges and to produce graduates capable of leading in the digital era. This demands closer collaboration between academia, industry, and government to jointly create curricula, support innovation hubs, and enable smooth transitions from education to employment or entrepreneurship. The path ahead will be challenging. It demands courage, ingenuity, and most importantly, readiness to listen to young people’s. The time for action is now.  Professor Khehla Ndlovu is the Vice Chancellor of the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://iol.co.za/saturday-star/news/2025-07-16-sas-youth-unemployment-crisis-can-digital-skills-unlock-their-future/

At times, we may find that there are differences between concepts  under the Amended General B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice as well as specific B-BBEE Sector Codes of Good Practice. This is evident when comparing the definition of a Start-up Enterprise under the Amended Construction B-BBEE Sector Codes Of Good Practice which states that a:   “Start-up Enterprise means a recently formed or incorporated Entity that has been in operation for less than 1 year. An entity that was formed and incorporated some time ago, but which has been dormant (non-operational), will qualify as a start-up enterprise for the first year after it commences operations. A start-up enterprise does not include any newly constituted enterprise which is merely a continuation of a pre-existing enterprise.”   It is important for Members to take note of the differences between B-BBEE Sector Codes of Good Practice to ensure the correct implementation takes place.   Technical Compliance Services  are available to guide members on requirements under B-BBEE Sector Codes of Good Practice.

The Measurement of Ownership  for Built Environment Professionals (BEPs) under the Amended Construction B-BBEE Sector Codes of Good Practice is quite unique. There is a focus on Registered Professionals and Shareholders being a part of Executive Management. Clause 3.1.3 of the Amended Construction B-BBEE Sector Codes of Good Practice states the following:     “3.1.3 The Measurement of Ownership in BEPs;   3.1.3.1 More than 50% of the total ownership held in a Measured Entity as a BEP must be held by individuals who are both:   3.1.3.1.1 Professionally registered with any of the statutory professional councils in the BEP environment in South Africa; and at the same time,   3.1.3.1.2 A member of the Executive Management of the Measured Entity;   3.1.3.2 Therefore when measuring the black ownership of any BEP, where the measured entity does not meet the requirements of 3.1.3.1 above, only 50% of the black ownership of those owners who do not meet the requirement of 3.1.3.1 may be included in the total measurement of black ownership in the measured entity.   3.1.3.3 For the avoidance of doubt, Executive Management in this context is defined as “Top Management” in terms of the Employment Equity Regulations and include the ‘Executive Directors’ and ‘Other Executive Management’ of the Measured Entity.   3.1.3.4 Where the ownership of a BEP is held by a holding company, the ownership in the holding company must comply with the provisions of 3.1.3.1, for the black ownership in the measured entity to be recognised, otherwise 3.1.3.2 will apply.   3.1.3.5 In addition, where the measured entity does not meet the requirement of 3.1.3.1, the measured entity does not qualify for automatic enhancement in terms of Clauses 4.2.3, 4.2.4, and 5.3.2. nor will it qualify for bonus points in 2.4 of the ownership scorecard.”   Technical Compliance Services  are available to guide members in understanding the measurement of Ownership under different B-BBEE Sector Codes of Good Practice.

The Legal Sector Transformation Fund (LSTF)  has been established in terms of Paragraph 37 of the Legal Sector Code (LSC) for the purposes set out in Paragraph 37.7 of the LSC.   Measured Entities would need complete a Form and submit it to the LSCC at info@lscc.org.za after making the deposit. Measured Entities may also submit this to your verification agency for purposes of measurement.   Technical Compliance Services  are available to guide members in understanding the requirements of the Legal Sector Transformation Fund.

Bizcommunity | 14 July 2025 South African small businesses could face a major blow after the United States confirmed a 30% tariff on all local goods from 1 August 2025. Entrepreneurship to the Point (ETTP) is calling on government and stakeholders to urgently protect the country’s export-ready SMMEs from the fallout. The tariffs, announced in a formal letter from US President Donald Trump to President Cyril Ramaphosa on 7 July, are expected to hit small and emerging exporters hardest — especially black-owned businesses that have only recently entered global value chains. “This decision poses a real and immediate threat to the South African SMME sector,” said Shawn Theunissen, founder of ETTP and Property Point. “Years of work in building export pipelines could unravel overnight.” ETTP, which works to strengthen the country’s entrepreneurship ecosystem, says the impact of these tariffs will go beyond just trade disruption. Theunissen warned of knock-on effects for job creation, investor confidence, and the broader transformation of the economy. To limit the damage, eTTP is urging swift, targeted intervention. Its proposed actions include: A small business trade relief fund to absorb losses Fast-tracked access to alternative export markets Support with compliance and recertification for new trade zones Advocacy for sector-specific tariff exemptions While diplomatic efforts continue, eTTP says the time for contingency planning is now. “We support the president’s diplomatic engagement, but we cannot afford to wait,” Theunissen added. “South Africa’s economic resilience depends on how we support our small businesses through this moment.” ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.bizcommunity.com/article/us-tariffs-threaten-smme-exports-says-ettp-701442a

Modiegi Mashamaite | 10 July 2025 Agriculture minister John Steenhuisen has revealed that South Africa’s agricultural sector is experiencing a surge of momentum with more than 3,000 recent agricultural graduates placed in internship programmes. Steenhuisen said this is part of a broader push by the government to uplift youth and tackle food insecurity. The agriculture minister made this announcement during his department’s budget vote speech, describing the allocation as “a budget for the youth” and pointing to major investments in training, education and food security. “More than 66,000 farmers have received training, and more than 3,000 agricultural graduates have been placed through our internship programmes. We are integrating all 11 agricultural colleges into the higher education system to ensure that they become centres of excellence,” said Steenhuisen.  The Macroeconomic Digest Labour Report for May 2024 published by the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) showed that employment in the agriculture sector increased by 50% on a long-term basis, from 627,000 jobs in the first quarter of 2011 to 941,000 in the first quarter of this year. According to the NAMC, agriculture employed about 5.6% of the employed pool in the first quarter of this year, making the sector essential in the labour force. It said data from Stats SA showed that men have been the primary participants in the agriculture sector from the first quarter of 2012 to the first quarter of 2024. The number of men and women actively involved in agriculture was 641,000 and 300,000, respectively, in the first quarter of this year. “During the first quarter of 2024, the number of women increased by 8,000 (2.8%), while the number of men increased by 13,000 (2.1%) compared to the previous quarter. When combining both genders, the number of people employed in agriculture increased by 21,000 (2.3%) for the first quarter of 2024.” the report said. In a time of economic uncertainty, agriculture has become a rare economic success story. The sector grew by 15.8% in the first quarter of 2025 — a performance that added 0.4 percentage points to South Africa’s overall GDP. This is in stark contrast to declines recorded in manufacturing, mining, electricity and construction. Behind the growth figures lie urgent social challenges. “According to the National Food and Nutrition Security Survey, only 36.5% of households are food secure. Nearly 18% experience severe food insecurity. These are not just figures. They are expressions of a child going to bed hungry, of a parent sacrificing meals, of dreams deferred,” said Steenhuisen. Steenhuisen said to address this, the department is implementing the 2024—2029 National Food and Nutrition Security Plan, in collaboration with the departments of health, education, social development and the environment. “We are scaling up school gardens, community food hubs and home food production,” he said. Steenhuisen also announced plans to promote neglected and underutilised species (NUS) such as amaranth, African leafy vegetables, and bambara groundnuts — crops known for their high nutrition, drought resistance and cultural value. “These offer nutrition, resilience and cultural relevance,” he said. He emphasised that the future of agriculture lies in innovation and youth participation.“The future of agriculture will be decided by the next generation, not only those who inherit the land, but those who study climate-smart techniques, monitor disease outbreaks, and build data systems for traceability,” he said.  Steenhuisen said to support this vision, the department is opening pathways for young people into veterinary science, agritech, on-farm learning and extension services. “Let us empower them to build a new kind of agriculture, one rooted in science, community, and opportunity.” ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.timeslive.co.za/politics/2025-07-10-steenhuisen-hails-youth-budget-as-3000-agriculture-graduates-land-internships/#google_vignette

SABC | 13 July 2025 The Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Commissioner has raised concerns on the adequate implementation and the future of Black Economic Empowerment in the country. The B-BBEE legislation was adopted through Section 9(2) of the Constitution to redress the socio-economic imbalances that were created by apartheid and ensure economic opportunities for previously marginalised races. In a step to deepen the country’s economic transformation efforts, the Triple BEE Commission and the Black Management Forum (BMF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding under the theme: Safeguarding B-BBEE Amidst Challenges in Implementation. This has been described by Commissioner Tshediso Matona as a collaborative effort to defend and advance South Africa’s transformation agenda. Commissioner raises concerns over BEE. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/commissioner-raises-concerns-over-implementation-future-of-bee/

Bongani Mdakane | 13th July 2025 A Pretoria husband and wife embroiled in a complicated “fronting case” have had to wait for more than a year for EPCM Bonisana to buy them out of the company despite a court ordering this be concluded within 10 days.  In May last year, Nicole and Ebrahim Patel obtained a Pretoria High Court order compelling Thomas Cowan and Dirk Odendaal, two directors of EPCM Bonisana to buy them out after the parties fell out.  The complicated story starts on March 7 last year.  The Patels had threatened to remove Cowan and Odendaal as directors of the oil and gas company based in Monument Park, Pretoria, after the pair refused to hand over documents the couple needed to get a valuation of their shareholding in the company.  In her judgment, Judge Mabaeng Lenyai traced the origin of the dispute to the Patels asking “the applicants” – Cowan and Odendaal – to furnish them with the documents that would help them value the company before disposing of their shares.  When they were refused this, they called a shareholder meeting to remove the pair as directors.  However, because the applicants did not attend the meeting, they then approached the Pretoria High Court 25 days later to dispute their removal on the grounds that, among others, the shareholders’ meeting did not have a quorum in their absence.  Lenyai noted in her judgment that “the applicants” had been given sufficient time and opportunity to attend but did not. “The applicants further contend that, in their absence, there was no majority of directors present at the meeting of the 7th March 2024 to carry the proposed resolutions… and it is evident that a quorum of the board of directors could not be achieved in the absence of the first applicant.  “The first and second respondents (the Patels), on the other hand, contend that they were justified in their actions and their decisions and actions are valid and binding. They aver that they are directors and majority shareholders of EPCM Bonisana. They aver that they had the intention of selling all their shares in Bonisana either to the applicants or to a third party.   “In contemplation of the sale, they needed to have their shares valued, with reference to various documentation, including but not limited to the company’s financial statements and current debts.”  The judge wrote that on December 1, 2023, the Patels claimed that they were forced to use lawyers to obtain the information after their attempt to get it from the applicants on their own failed.  The court said the Patels gave the applicants 14 days to supply the requested information after they became “aware of an alleged misappropriation of funds… at EPCM”.  The court notes that both parties accept that the applicants kept asking for extensions of deadlines despite being warned that failure to comply with the request would constitute a criminal offence.  “The applicants having failed or refused to comply with a lawful and reasonable request, the Patels sent another letter to them on the 14th February 2024 demanding that the directors of Bonisana meet to resolve that a shareholders meeting be convened regarding the removal of the applicants as directors of Bonisana [because] the shareholders have lost faith in the applicants and there has been a breakdown of trustbetween the parties.  “The shareholders’ meeting was called for 29 February, but the applicants indicated they would not attend. [So], the meeting was postponed to 7 March, but again the applicants said they would be unavailable.  “They were advised to join the meeting via Microsoft Teams and were also afforded an opportunity to appoint either a proxy or an agent. The applicants refused to attend the meeting or give any cogent reasons for not availing themselves. But the meeting, which had proceeded without the applicants, resolved to call a shareholders’ meeting for 22 March,” the judge wrote.  This is the meeting that the applicants went to court to stop because it would have discussed their removal as directors. But the court ruled the Patels were within their rights to act as they did, and that the directors meeting was legal.  The court dismissed Cowan’s and Odendaal’s application with costs.  Two months later, on May 9, Pretoria high court’s Judge Phiwokazi Mali reiterated Lenyai’s order and further ordered that Cowan and Odendaal furnish the Patels’ accountants with the documents they needed to value the company.  To date, that is yet to happen as the battle rages on.  In his affidavit deposed to the court, Ebrahim said during evaluation that his agent found financial irregularities that contradicted prior internal assessments, “exposing financial mismanagement, B-BBEE fronting risks and irregularities within the company’s financial reporting structures”.  “Mr Cowan and Mr Odendaal were either directly or indirectly involved in decisions or positions that came under scrutiny,” Ebrahim wrote.  He said that disagreements arose over how to manage the implications of the valuation, particularly on stakeholder disclosures, as well as financial transparency and internal controls.  “I observed that funds were moved through structures linked to B-BBEE companies not to empower black stakeholders or communities [but] rather to benefit themselves and those already in power. The system was manipulated under the guise of compliance, while real black ownership and participation were systematically sidelined,” said Ebrahim.  Ebrahim said in court that he was removed from his positions as the managing director and tender director in 2022 by Cowan, and Nicole was removed from her HR position and reduced to the junior position as a business administrator and tea lady in 2020.  “It became evident that this was more than financial misconduct – it was an assault on the principles of equity, dignity and justice,” said Ebrahim.  In her affidavit, Nicole writes that it became increasingly clear that Cowan and Odendaal did not regard her and Ebrahim as equal partners.  “Our presence appeared an instrument only for securing a Level 1 B-BBEE status, which was crucial for winning high-value tenders like Sasol, Eskom, RBM and Forkor. Despite holding majority shares, I was denied access to key financial information, including bank accounts and financial statements.   The Patels declined to comment, claiming they feared Cowan and Odendaal would use the publication of the story against them in court but a source close to the matter told Sunday World that Cowan and Odendaal failed to realise that by giving the Patels 73% shareholding, they would end up with all the power that they are now using.  Cowan and Odendaal’s lawyer, Riaan Venter of GMI Attorneys said: “From the onset we wish to make it clear that the allegations raised by Mr Patel is (sic) simply false and was done (sic) by a disgruntled shareholder with whom our clients are embroiled in alegal battle in the High Court of Pretoria.   “It is clear from your message that you have not investigated the matter and simply wish to publish an article on the strength of hearsay evidence provided by Mr Patel and you are advised that should you proceed with the publication of false and defamatory allegations, you and your newspaper will be held liable for any damages that our client might sustain.”  ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://sundayworld.co.za/news/fronting-backfires-on-epcm-bonisana/