Lisa Beyers | 22 April 2026 Civil rights organisation Solidarity has confirmed it will proceed with its Constitutional Court challenge against South Africa’s Public Procurement Act, with the case scheduled for 18 and 19 May this year. The development comes as National Treasury published new regulations under the Act, which Solidarity argues will significantly increase costs for taxpayers and undermine service delivery. According to the regulations, state institutions must reserve 30% of all procurement for black-owned enterprises. Additionally, any business seeking state contracts must demonstrate that at least 40% of its own procurement comes from suppliers with predominantly black ownership. Unlike previous procurement rules, non-compliance with these Black Economic Empowerment requirements now constitutes grounds for automatic exclusion from all state contracts. Anton van der Bijl, deputy chief executive of Solidarity, questioned the timing of the regulations. “The audacity of doing this shortly before a ruling on whether the Act is fair or not is quite astonishing. These regulations will significantly increase procurement costs by narrowing the pool of suppliers available to the state,” Van der Bijl said. He added that suppliers complying with BEE requirements would face virtually no limit on prices they could charge for goods and services, with taxpayers ultimately bearing the cost. Theuns du Buisson, economic researcher at the Solidarity Research Institute, explained that preferential procurement prevents the state from purchasing directly from the most affordable suppliers, creating a system where middlemen profit without adding value. “When prices are artificially inflated by adding intermediaries as additional links in the chain, this mandate is undermined. The result is that ordinary South Africans pay more for poorer service delivery,” Du Buisson said. He cited National Treasury estimates indicating that up to 40% of public procurement is lost to fraud, inflated pricing and intermediary structures. Du Buisson described the legislation as one of the most racially discriminatory pieces introduced since 1994, claiming it effectively disqualifies white businesspeople. Solidarity argues the case centres on constitutional principles of fairness, efficiency and accountability, with direct implications for taxes, service delivery and quality of life for all South Africans. The Constitutional Court’s ruling in May will determine whether the Public Procurement Act and its regulations comply with the constitution. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://novanews.co.za/solidarity-challenges-new-bee-procurement-regulations-ahead-of-may-court-case/

Lehlohonolo Lehana | 20 April 2026 Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi met with legal practitioners in a stakeholder engagement as part of government’s efforts to strengthen collaboration and advance transformation within the legal sector. This engagement provided a platform for constructive dialogue with legal practitioners on matters relating to transformation and the empowerment of previously disadvantaged professionals within the legal sector. Various members of the legal fraternity as well as representatives of legal bodies were outspoken about the fact that black lawyers are overlooked, especially when it came to the State Attorney allocating work in high-profile cases.  Kubayi has emphasised that the transformation of the legal sector remains integral to sustaining South Africa’s democracy. “Most studies have indicated that the transformation of the legal profession is facing resistance by established players who have benefited from the status quo, and this has also manifested itself with legal challenges against the legal sector code.” “There are still many barriers that restrict the careers of talented black and female lawyers, including racist treatment, sexual harassment, and briefing patterns which give preference to white men.” “That can’t be ignored. It cannot be that it is not acknowledged that transformation is necessary in this sector, because the worst off in this sector remain the black women. We are going to have to work together…in partnership to be able to fight the resistance and transform our sector,” Kubayi said. Kubayi gave the assurance that the concerns will be addressed. She said while they are valid, the worst off in this sector are black female practitioners. She actively defended the Legal Sector Code (LSC) against legal challenges from major law firms. She said the LSC is crucial for transformation. The Minister has instructed all State Attorney Offices to hold quarterly stakeholder engagements to deepen transformation even further. The acting Solicitor-General, Felix Mbeki, gave an overview during the proceedings, including statistics as to how work is being allocated and which processes had to be followed to be considered. He also painted a positive picture on how practitioners called upon to do work for the State are paid within the stipulated 30-day payment frame. This sparked an emotional outcry from many of the lawyers present, who said these were simply wrong and that these figures did not represent the plight of the smaller black firms who are being overlooked. Mbeki gave the assurance that since the establishment of the Office of the Solicitor-General, a structured and policy-driven approach has been implemented to promote fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in the allocation of state legal work. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://fullview.co.za/kubayi-pledges-to-improve-inclusivity-transparency-in-legal-sector/

Bianke Neethling | 20 April 2026 The National Treasury has published the draft General Public Procurement Regulations for public comment, which could lead to sweeping changes to procurement legislation and black economic empowerment (BEE) in South Africa. The Treasury explained that, due to the length and complexity of the draft General Public Procurement Regulations, a longer consultation period has been given for submitting public comments. These regulations, if passed, will bring into effect the Public Procurement Act, which President Cyril Ramaphosa assented to in July 2024. This Act has been controversial since its inception, as various parties have supported or opposed the new procurement rules, and the draft General Public Procurement Regulations are set to be no different, particularly regarding BEE requirements. Under the draft General Public Procurement Regulations, companies that wish to do business with the government must demonstrate that a large percentage of their prior procurement was with majority black-owned businesses. Specifically, the regulations state that companies must show that at least 40% of their prior procurement was spent on enterprises that are at least 51% owned and managed by black persons. This detail, and other specifications in the regulations, show the Treasury’s commitment to ensuring BEE in the new legislation. This comes at a time when BEE policies are increasingly under scrutiny, both within and outside the government. It also comes as Trade Minister Parks Tau is developing the idea of a new Transformation Fund, which many suspect may replace BEE policies as they’re currently understood. Ramaphosa previously explained that this Transformation Fund will be used to support black-owned and small businesses, though he rejected suggestions that BEE should be abandoned. While details are still lacking, it is believed that the Transformation Fund will be funded by companies that choose to contribute 3% of their net income. Companies that do so will earn double the BEE points currently available for their contributions towards enterprise and supplier development. This setup has led some, including Efficient Group chief economist Dawie Roodt, to refer to the Transformation Fund as an effective “empowerment tax” that South African companies can pay rather than deal with complex BEE scorecards. Public procurement in the spotlight again The Public Procurement Act, which the Treasury’s draft General Public Procurement Regulations are seeking to give effect to, is intended to close loopholes and improve South Africa’s procurement processes. South Africa’s weak procurement regulations and enforcement have been a thorn in the country’s side for years, having been exploited by various bad actors seeking to profit. On 9 April 2026, the Institute for Race Relations’ (IRR) Makone Maja explained that South Africa’s public procurement rules have been weaponised against citizens and require a major overhaul. “Public procurement processes are often more amenable to abuse by opportunistic and corrupt officials seeking self-enrichment,” Maja said, specifically in reference to revelations made during the Madlanga Commission. “The IRR hopes the Madlanga Commission will go further in establishing the role of BEE as the glue that binds procurement to wasteful expenditure through BEE premiums, as well as corruption and capture through patrimonialism.”  “This golden thread runs through both the Zondo and the Madlanga commissions, which have effectively investigated the same issue.”  Maja explained that both of these commissions uncovered state capture by private interests who collude with politicians and others in public office. This collusion, she said, is done to exploit procurement processes in a bid to enrich themselves at the expense of critical state institutions most South Africans depend on for basic services. “As the retired Justices Madlanga and Zondo reach similar conclusions regarding public procurement rules, we must demand that their recommendations regarding procurement and BEE be reflected in all institutions and laws,” Maja said. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://dailyinvestor.com/south-africa/130315/new-bee-rules-for-south-africa-on-the-cards/

In the realm of economic empowerment, Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE)  stands as a cornerstone initiative aimed at redressing imbalances of the past and fostering inclusive growth. However, even with its noble intentions, there lies a persistent challenge: Fronting Practices.   Fronting Practices refer to the practice of misrepresenting the true nature of B-BBEE compliance, often undermining its objectives and perpetuating economic inequality. At its core, B-BBEE seeks to empower Black People and promote their meaningful participation in the economy. It encompasses various measures such as Ownership, Management Control, Skills Development, Enterprise and Supplier Development, and Socio-Economic Development; all aimed at broadening economic participation and socio-economic empowerment. However, Fronting Practices undermine these objectives by creating a facade of compliance while circumventing the spirit of B-BBEE and transformation initiatives.   Fronting Practices manifests in various forms, ranging from the creation of superficial empowerment structures to the exploitation of loopholes in B-BBEE legislation. One common tactic involves the establishment of so-called "front companies" or "token Black Ownership" structures, where Black individuals or entities are used as figureheads without genuine involvement or control in the business operations. In other instances, companies may engage in window-dressing tactics, such as inflating Procurement Spend with Black-Owned suppliers without genuine economic empowerment outcomes.   The prevalence of Fronting Practices poses significant challenges to B-BBEE compliance  and undermines the credibility of the entire empowerment framework. It not only erodes trust between stakeholders but also perpetuates a culture of non-compliance and impunity. Moreover, Fronting Practices distort market dynamics by allowing entities to unfairly compete for business opportunities meant for genuinely empowered enterprises, thereby stifling economic transformation and exacerbating inequality.   Addressing Fronting Practices requires a multifaceted approach that combines robust enforcement mechanisms, increased transparency, and enhanced public awareness. Regulatory authorities such as the B-BBEE Commission and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition ( the dtic ) must strengthen enforcement measures to detect and penalise instances of Fronting Practices effectively. This may involve conducting thorough investigations, imposing severe penalties on offenders, and implementing measures to deter future violations. Moreover, collaboration between government agencies, industry associations, and civil society organisations is essential to share best practices, raise awareness, and promote compliance with B-BBEE principles.   Transparency and accountability are critical in combating Fronting Practices and restoring trust in the B-BBEE framework. Companies must adopt a culture of transparency and disclosure, providing clear and accurate information about their empowerment initiatives and outcomes. This includes publishing detailed B-BBEE Scorecards, where possible, disclosing Ownership structures, and demonstrating genuine efforts towards economic empowerment. By driving transparency, companies can mitigate the risk of Fronting Practice allegations and demonstrate their commitment to genuine transformation.   Furthermore, public awareness and education play a vital role in addressing Fronting Practices and promoting compliance with B-BBEE principles. Stakeholders across the public and private sectors must engage in proactive outreach efforts to educate businesses, investors, and the general public about the importance of economic empowerment and the consequences of Fronting Practices. This may involve hosting workshops, disseminating informational materials, and leveraging digital platforms to raise awareness about B-BBEE compliance requirements and best practices.   Ultimately, Fronting Practices represents a significant challenge to B-BBEE compliance and undermines efforts to achieve meaningful economic transformation in South Africa. Addressing Fronting Practices requires a concerted effort from regulatory authorities, businesses, and civil society to strengthen enforcement measures, promote transparency, and public awareness. When we tackle Fronting Practices head-on and uphold the principles of genuine economic empowerment, we can pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable society, where every citizen can thrive.

Worker's Day will be celebrated on May 1 st,  and it holds a profound significance. It commemorated the struggles and achievements of workers, particularly in their fight for fair labour practices and rights. Originating from the historic struggle against Apartheid, it is a reminder of the solidarity and resilience of the workforce. This day honoured the contributions of workers across industries, acknowledging their role in shaping our Country’s socio-economic landscape. It is a time to reflect on progress made in labour rights and to advocate for ongoing improvements in working conditions, wages, and equality.   In terms of B-BBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment), Worker's Day underscores the importance of economic inclusivity. B-BBEE initiatives aim to address historical injustices by promoting the participation of Black South Africans in the economy. On days like Worker's Day, the commitment to B-BBEE principles is reaffirmed, emphasising the integration of marginalised groups into all facets of economic activity.

Likho Mbuka | 16 April 2026 Group highlights procurement spend and skills development as key drivers of sustained top rating. MTN Group and its major subsidiary MTN South Africa have maintained their Level 1 Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) contributor status in 2025, marking six consecutive years for the group and seven for its South African unit. The rating, verified by an independent agency, reflects continued performance across key elements of the B-BBEE scorecard, including skills development, enterprise and supplier development, and socio-economic development. MTN said its procurement spend remains a central lever in driving transformation. During 2025, the group spent R8.8 billion with 51% Black-owned suppliers and R11.6 billion with 30% Black women-owned suppliers, reinforcing its role in supporting local enterprise development. Investment in skills development also remained a focus, with 492 learnerships, graduate programmes and targeted interventions supported during the year, aimed largely at building digital and technical capabilities. Group CEO Ralph Mupita said the sustained Level 1 status reflects the link between business performance and broader economic inclusion. “Maintaining a Level 1 B-BBEE status over many years reflects our commitment to long-term business success and societal progress,” he said. MTN South Africa CEO Ferdi Moolman added that procurement, skills development and partnerships are being used to drive economic participation beyond compliance requirements. Through its foundation initiatives, MTN said it reached more than 905 000 learners via its online school platform and over 25 000 beneficiaries through its skills academy, with a focus on youth and women. The group said it will continue to embed transformation across its value chain as part of its broader strategy to drive inclusive growth and digital participation in South Africa. ‘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.moneyweb.co.za/news/companies-and-deals/mtn-maintains-level-1-b-bbee-status-for-seventh-consecutive-year/

Simon Majadibodu | 15 April 2026 President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed criticism from Elon Musk over South Africa’s Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) laws, insisting the policy is not racist, despite being labelled “extremely racist” by the billionaire. Musk, who was born in South Africa, claimed his satellite internet service, Starlink, was denied a licence because he is not Black.  He described the regulations as “extremely racist” and a “shameful disgrace” to the legacy of Nelson Mandela, and called for sanctions against officials supporting B-BBEE. However, the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) confirmed in March 2025 that Starlink had not formally applied for the required licences, despite raising concerns about the regulatory framework. Under the Electronic Communications Act, aligned with B-BBEE policy, companies are required to have at least 30% equity ownership by historically disadvantaged individuals.  Musk also alleged that his company was offered opportunities to bypass the requirement by misrepresenting ownership, which he said he refused. Speaking on the sidelines of the National Local Economic Development Summit 2026 in Boksburg, Ramaphosa said he paid little attention to Musk’s remarks. “Our laws are not racist. They are empowerment laws meant to uplift people who were discriminated against,” he said. Ramaphosa said that apartheid-era policies explicitly restricted Black South Africans’ rights, including where they could live and work. He said current legislation is rooted in constitutional provisions aimed at redressing historical inequalities. “What we are seeking to do is implement the constitutional imperative to correct the imbalances of the past,” he said. He added that companies unable to meet equity ownership requirements can comply through “equity equivalent” programmes, such as investments in enterprise development, education and community initiatives. Ramaphosa said hundreds of international firms, including Google, Amazon, Microsoft and General Electric, comply with South African regulations. “Singling out our BEE laws is quite dishonest,” he said.  “These are empowering laws designed to benefit all South Africans, including women who were disadvantaged under previous systems.” Meanwhile, tensions between South Africa and the United States have intensified.  Advocacy group AfriForum has called for sanctions against ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula. The situation follows renewed scrutiny of US-South Africa relations under President Donald Trump, who returned to office in January 2025.  His administration has criticised South Africa’s land reform policies and foreign relations with Russia, China and Iran, and threatened sanctions alongside a proposed US-South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act of 2025. The US has also imposed 30% tariffs on certain South African goods as part of its broader trade strategy. Last week, Mbalula said in August 2025 that ANC leaders were prepared to face sanctions rather than abandon policies aimed at economic transformation, including B-BBEE. ‘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/politics/2026-04-15-our-laws-are-not-racist-ramaphosa-says-b-bbee-going-nowhere-amid-musk-backlash/

Phiri Cawe | 14 April 2026 While birthdays are typically marked by festive gatherings and decorated cakes, Afrika Tikkun, a non-profit organisation based at the Zolile Malindi Centre, has chosen to celebrate its milestone by continuing its mission to uplift and empower disadvantaged children, youth, and families. For many in the Mfuleni community, the organisation has become a beacon of hope, particularly for families struggling to make ends meet, with its ongoing commitment to transforming lives rather than relying on occasional donations such as food hampers. With more than 30 years of experience in driving social change, the organisation focuses on education, skills development, youth empowerment, and community-based programmes. Marketing coordinator Malibongwe Zitho highlighted the centre’s impact, noting that it has expanded its services over the years to include early childhood development. “We started as a soup kitchen, but we have grown into an organisation that equips both young and old with the skills to become self-sufficient. Our main focus is on young people. We support their academic development and offer programmes in digital literacy, career guidance, creative arts, and fitness activities such as soccer, netball, running, and swimming. We also partner with Manzomthombo Primary School, where we teach physical science, mathematics, and English on Saturdays,” he said. To keep children engaged and inspired, the centre also hosts events such as talent shows and spelling bees. Mr Zitho added that the organisation honours the legacy of its chief patron, the late statesman Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, by commemorating his birthday each year. “The impact of the centre in the community has been immense. We have helped many young people secure employment and supported their education by raising funds to ensure they complete their schooling. We also participate in the Spirit of Belron Challenge, where people from around the world walk, run, cycle, swim, or use wheelchairs. For every kilometre covered, Belron donates €1 to Afrika Tikkun, supporting youth development programmes that empower underserved communities,” he said. As the centre celebrates 30 years of existence, Mr Zitho said the organisation remains committed to expanding its reach and impact. He emphasised the importance of working closely with local communities, volunteers, partners, and stakeholders to create sustainable opportunities for young people to thrive. Community members have also shared positive feedback about the centre’s work. Nombentsha Mdingi from Bardale said that although she has never visited the centre, she has heard many success stories. “People speak highly of it. I have not been there myself, but I hear good things. My neighbour’s child learned computer skills there and is now employed. I would love to visit one day,” she said. Another resident, Mandilakhe Mboqo from Extension Four in Mfuleni, praised the organisation for its long-standing support. “We have never gone hungry since it started. When it was still a soup kitchen, we relied on it for food. It has grown to meet the needs of the community, and we are grateful to have an organisation like Afrika Tikkun,” he said. He also expressed appreciation for the non-profit's continued efforts to share valuable information and opportunities with young people, adding that he hopes to see it grow from strength to strength. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://vukaninews.co.za/vukani/news/2026-04-14-afrika-tikkun-celebrates-30-years-of-empowering-youth-in-mfuleni/

Siphelele Dludla | 14 April 2026 South Africa’s struggling Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector is being repositioned as a cornerstone of inclusive growth, with a new policy proposal placing public-private partnerships (PPPs) at the heart of a sweeping reform agenda aimed at tackling youth unemployment and unlocking long-term investment. A research paper, compiled by sector specialists and published by the Public Investment Corporation (PIC) on Tuesday, argues that the country’s persistent mismatch between high unemployment and scarce technical skills is not a failure of concept, but of institutional design and funding structure. The paper proposes a fundamental shift: transforming TVET colleges into investable social infrastructure through coordinated partnerships between government, private operators, industry, and institutional investors. At the core of the proposal is a blended PPP model in which government retains ownership of land and infrastructure while conceding operations to private sector partners. These operators would be responsible for managing institutions, upgrading facilities, aligning curricula with labour market needs, and delivering measurable employment outcomes. Industry, meanwhile, would play a direct role in co-designing training programmes and providing workplace-based learning, while long-term investors would finance infrastructure upgrades and expansion through structured, risk-mitigated vehicles. The paper highlights that South Africa’s current TVET system is constrained by fragmented funding, weak industry alignment, and limited capital investment, with more than 95% of public funding going toward operational costs rather than infrastructure. This has left colleges under-equipped and unable to deliver the practical, work-ready skills demanded by employers. Under the proposed PPP framework, funding would be restructured to align incentives across stakeholders. Government support, including National Student Financial Aid Scheme (Nsfas) funding, would be tied not just to enrolment but to progression, completion, and employment outcomes. Private operators would be paid based on performance metrics such as graduate employment rates and employer satisfaction, introducing accountability and competition into the system. For investors, particularly the PIC, which is already a significant investor in education-focused social infrastructure with investments exceeding R7 billion across the sector, the model presents a new asset class with both financial and developmental returns. The paper notes: “For long-term institutional investors, such as the PIC, a revised TVET model would present a compelling opportunity. It would offer structural, enduring demand driven by demographics, industrial policy, and government commitments.” It adds that the model would provide “multiple investment entry points across infrastructure, operational platforms, and outcome-linked instruments,” alongside “downside protection through government participation, predictable annuity-like cash flows, and potentially outcome-linked payments.” This framing positions TVET not merely as an education intervention, but as a scalable investment platform capable of delivering stable, long-term returns while addressing one of the country’s most pressing socio-economic challenges. The PPP approach also seeks to address systemic inefficiencies by integrating existing funding streams, including Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) grants and employer contributions, into a unified financing framework. This would reduce fragmentation and ensure that training is directly linked to workplace demand. Crucially, the model introduces outcome-based funding as a central accountability mechanism. Institutions would be rewarded for producing employable graduates rather than simply enrolling students, marking a significant departure from the current input-driven system. The proposal draws on international examples, including dual vocational training systems in countries such as Germany and Switzerland, where strong collaboration between the public and private sectors has led to high employment absorption rates. If implemented, the reforms could significantly expand artisan training, improve youth employment outcomes, and attract domestic pension capital into productive infrastructure. Over time, this could boost tax revenues and reduce pressure on social grants. Around 60% of young people (15–24) are unemployed, driven by skills mismatches, poor education quality, and a stagnant economy, impacting nearly 9 million young people not in education, employment, or training. However, the success of the PPP model will depend on careful design, particularly in balancing risk between stakeholders and ensuring that access and equity are preserved. Safeguards such as portable student funding, transparent performance metrics, and equal regulatory standards for public and private providers are seen as critical to maintaining system integrity. Ultimately, the paper argues that South Africa already has the institutional footprint needed to deliver large-scale skills development. The challenge now is to unlock its potential through smarter partnerships, better incentives, and sustained investment. “The scale already exists,” it concludes. “The challenge and the opportunity is to unlock its performance.” ‘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/business-report/companies/2026-04-14-pic-pushes-for-public-private-partnership-investment-strategy-to-transform-tvet-sector/#google_vignette

Changes to B-BBEE Legislation in 2013 closed a loophole that allowed early payment terms for Black Owned businesses in exchange for Enterprise Development points. The amendments meant that an organisation may only claim early payment terms from Supplier Development Beneficiaries. Therefore, the following applies to an invoice on which a claim for early payment is going to be made:   1.    The invoice payable for goods or services must appear in an organisation’s TMPS; 2.    Only the amount for early payment terms must reflect.   Enterprise & Supplier Development Services  are available to assist with claiming early payments.

On 25 March 2026, the Legal Sector Charter Council issued a Notice to all Legal Sector Entities regarding the Submission of Annual Reports.   The notice stated the following:     1. NOTICE TO LEGAL SECTOR MEASURED ENTITIES   1.1  This notice serves to remind all LSMEs and advocates that the annual reports required in terms of paragraph 13.8, read with paragraph 13.10 of LSC are due. 1   1.2  Attention is drawn to the relevant provisions of the LSC and Clarification Notice CN01 of 2025, wherein the provisions with respect to the measurement periods and the due date for submission of the requisite annual reports are highlighted.   1.3  In terms of the aforementioned, LSMEs and advocates must file their annual reports on the first anniversary of the commencement of the Measurement Period, being the commencement of a LSME or advocate’s current financial year where possible.   1.4  However, in light of the provisions of paragraph 13.8 of the LSC, which provide that the annual report must include a scorecard audited by an accredited verification agency, it is anticipated that annual reports will be submitted only after such verification or no later than 6 months after a LSME’s financial year end. LSMEs are requested to ensure that such annual reports are filed not later than 6 months after the end of their financial year end.   Technical Services   are available to assist Members with understanding these requirements.

Nokukhanya Mntambo | 10 April 2026 The US government continues to put pressure on South Africa to scrap its redress policies – including the controversial broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) legislative framework, which has been at the centre of a rift between the two trade partners . US Ambassador to SA Brent Bozell doubled down on Washington’s calls on Wednesday, after President Cyril Ramaphosa received letters of credence from 20 ambassadors at an official credentials ceremony. “There are serious issues between our two governments that need to be resolved,” the diplomat told journalists outside the Sefako Makgatho presidential guest house in Tshwane, after the cordial meeting. “The United States is ready to pour money into investments in South Africa, and it’s not just the private sector that’s doing it, but the government that is doing it,” he said. “There are billions upon billions of dollars that we want to invest in this country, but there are issues that we have.” The ownership issue SA’s B-BBEE laws broadly require international companies operating in the country to have 30% ownership by previously disadvantaged local groups. This has invoked the ire of US President Donald Trump and SA-born billionaire Elon Musk, who pushed a false narrative about white genocide in the country in an attempt to strong-arm Ramaphosa into abandoning the redress policies. Musk’s internet satellite company Starlink has struggled to secure an operating licence in SA, with an Equity Equivalent option touted as an alternative to open the door for the service provider. “It’s very difficult for a major corporation to come here and be told it has to surrender 30% of its ownership or some such thing,” Bozell said. While he says the criticism about South Africa’s domestic laws is in no way meant to interfere with the country’s sovereignty, he notes that the US will continue to have a difference of opinion on the matter. SA won’t fold Speaking at a separate event on Wednesday, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau again defended B-BBEE as a critical policy tool in taking the country forward. “Instead of dismissing the need for B-BBEE, shouldn’t we be strengthening our policy and implementation instruments to ensure we measure output and outcome?” said Tau. “Shouldn’t we be asking questions like how we reach more people at the level of participation, how do we ensure access to capital?” Last year, Tau announced a two-part process to review the B-BBEE policy in what he said would refine legislation and allow it to function more efficiently. ‘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.moneyweb.co.za/news/economy/scrap-bee-laws-to-unlock-billions-of-dollars-us-ambassador/