JOHANNESBURG, 20 October 2026: Independent news publishers looking to strengthen their digital operations now have access to a free tool to help them understand what is working, where improvements are needed and what to prioritise next. The Digital News Transformation Fund (DNTF) has partnered with RNW Media to make its Digital Transformation Assessment (DTA), a service of RNTC, available free of charge to independent publishers throughout South Africa, including the Fund’s 43 grantees.

The DNTF is a partnership between Google and the Association of Independent Publishers (AIP), administered by Tshikululu Social Investments. The Fund supports the sustainability, innovation and digital transformation of small and medium local and independent news publishers in South Africa.

The assessment takes around 60 minutes to complete, ideally with two to four team members working together. It looks at how different parts of a news organisation are adapting to digital publishing, across areas including strategy, editorial workflows, audience engagement, operations, monetisation, people and digital security.

Each organisation receives a personalised report outlining its current digital position, helping teams identify strengths, areas for improvement and where to focus their limited resources. The results can also help teams develop a practical action plan, including capacity-building needs and a realistic budget. Leanne Kunz, Head of the DNTF, says: “Independent publishers are working hard to adapt to a changing media environment, often with limited resources. This assessment gives them an opportunity to look at their progress, identify what needs attention and make informed decisions about their next steps.”

Participation is entirely confidential, voluntary and does not affect DNTF grants or funding conditions. Responses are used only to generate each organisation’s report, with individual data kept private and not shared with the Fund or other third parties. The report is tailored to each organisation that submits the assessment information.

Boris van Westering, Digital Transformation lead at RNW Media, says: “The assessment is designed to encourage practical conversations within newsrooms about digital transformation. It gives teams a clearer picture of where they stand and helps them agree on what matters most.”

RNW Media and RNTC will host a free introductory session on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 (SAST), open to anyone interested in learning about the assessment.

The session will take place on Microsoft Teams. Join the introductory session using this link here.

Publishers can also learn more about the DTA and access the assessment at rntc.com.

For more information, please visit dntfund.org.za.

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East London, 19 October 2026: Vincent Park has introduced Golden Grab, an interactive shopping promotion that gives visitors the opportunity to win prizes instantly over the weekend.

The campaign runs until 30 October 2026, offering a fresh take on the usual spend-and-win format. Customers who spend at least R300 at the centre qualify to try their luck at the branded Golden Grab prize machine, with successful grabs earning immediate rewards.

More than 90 prizes are up for grabs, from various Vincent Park stores, ranging from branded giveaways and shopping vouchers to premium prizes. Participating stores include Bogart Man, Mr Price Home, Cupidolls, HealthWise Health Shop, Dennis Collins Jewellers and H&M.

Spend, Play and Win

The Golden Grab machine will come to life every Friday and Saturday, adding an interactive element to weekend shopping and giving visitors the satisfaction of finding out immediately whether they have won.

There is also a bigger prize up for grabs. Every qualifying entry will automatically go into the draw to win R10 000 in cash, with entry boxes available at participating stores. The grand prize winner will be announced on 10 November 2026.

The Golden Grab has been designed to bring a sense of fun and spontaneity to the shopping experience, giving visitors another reason to spend their Friday or Saturday at Vincent Park. With instant prizes available every weekend and R10 000 waiting for one lucky shopper, a R300 shopping trip could turn into a very rewarding visit.

Visit the mall’s website for more information: vincentpark.co.za or follow the mall on social media for regular updates.

The post Vincent Park Offers Shoppers Instant Rewards with Golden Grab appeared first on Alt News Network.

Johannesburg, 16 October 2026: The View has opened in Fourways, offering visitors a fresh setting for good food, relaxation and socialising. Linked to Fourways Mall, the lifestyle destination combines a range of restaurants with beauty treatments, wellness offerings, speciality retail and leisure attractions.

The View introduces a different way to experience Fourways Mall, with an emphasis on beautiful surroundings, quality experiences and aspirational places where people can spend time together. From early morning coffee and leisurely lunches to Pilates sessions, pampering, sundowners and dinner with friends, the destination has been designed to become part of everyday life in Fourways, while offering an experience worth travelling for.

Located on the corner of Cedar and Witkoppen Roads, the R100 million development forms part of the successful transformation of Fourways Mall, which is 50% owned by JSE-listed Accelerate Property Fund. The investment supports the broader strategy to strengthen the Mall’s position as a leading retail, entertainment and lifestyle destination. Connected to the mall’s expansive 182,000m² footprint, The View offers a new way to spend time in Fourways, whether for a morning coffee, lunch with friends, a wellness appointment or a luxurious evening out.

A Destination Designed Around the Experience

Contemporary architecture, clean lines, refined finishes and thoughtfully designed interiors create an inviting environment that encourages visitors to slow down and enjoy their surroundings. A three-level atrium brings light and openness into the development, while the combination of indoor and outdoor spaces encourages relaxed dining and socialising. Each restaurant and store brings its own character and design personality, contributing to a destination that feels cohesive without losing the individuality of its brands.

Dining is a particular highlight, with an impressive selection of restaurants and cafés catering to different occasions and tastes. The much-anticipated arrival of tashas brings its signature all-day dining experience to Fourways, with interiors inspired by the Aegean and a menu celebrating fresh ingredients and the pleasure of sharing good food.

Another standout addition is Pantry by Marble, one of Johannesburg’s most sought-after food and lifestyle concepts, bringing its distinctive high-end offering to Fourways for the first time.

Other dining options include Fournos, Nossa Casa, Nonnas Riviera, Banchan, George’s Grill and Clay Cafe, where visitors can combine a creative experience with a relaxed outing. Gelato Mania adds a sweet treat to the mix, while Food Lover’s Market and Liquor Lane bring premium food shopping and everyday convenience into the offering.

Beauty and wellness are equally important to The View’s appeal. Mangwanani offers an opportunity to unwind, while Glow Theory, Popsicle Nails, The Piercery and The Laser Beautique provide a range of beauty and personal care experiences. Loamari Pilates adds a fitness dimension, making it possible to combine a morning workout with breakfast, shopping or a coffee date.

Petworld XXL adds to the speciality retail selection, while further additions are already on the horizon. Rockets Man is expected to open later in 2026, bringing another dining and social experience to the destination, while Workshop17 will introduce a flexible working environment in January 2027.

Part of a Bigger Vision for Fourways Mall

According to Juan Palm, General Manager of Fourways Mall, the development was driven by a clear opportunity to introduce a more sophisticated offering to the area: “We recognised a growing demand in Fourways for an upmarket dining and lifestyle experience, and The View was developed specifically to meet that need,” said Juan. “Our vision was to bring together highly sought-after upscale brands in a beautifully designed setting, creating a destination where people can enjoy exceptional dining, wellness and leisure experiences. The quality of the environment and the mix of brands were central to achieving that vision.”

Juan added that the development was also about building stronger connections with the surrounding community: “Our hope is that The View becomes a natural part of life in Fourways, a place that local residents return to regularly, but which also attracts visitors from further afield. It adds another dimension to Fourways Mall and gives people even more reasons to visit.”

Convenience has also been carefully considered, with multiple access points, including direct access from Cedar Road, making The View easy to reach. Its connection to Fourways Mall allows visitors to move between the new destination and the centre’s wider shopping and entertainment offering.

For regular updates on Fourways Mall, trading hours, and its stores, visit fourwaysmall.com or follow the centre on Instagram.

The post Fourways Mall Opens R100 Million Lifestyle Development in Johannesburg appeared first on Alt News Network.

Pretoria, 15 October 2026 — Faerie Glen Shopping Centre in Pretoria East is undergoing a substantial redevelopment, with construction commencing this month on plans to turn the established retail destination into The New Quarter. The project is intended to expand the centre’s offering while introducing a new neighbourhood lifestyle destination for local residents and shoppers.

With the centre positioned alongside two streams, the redevelopment has also been carefully designed to settle naturally into its surroundings, reflecting the community’s strong connection to the environment and creating a considered relationship between the built and natural landscape. The new design incorporates a modern architectural perspective and will be built to last.

Expected to open in November 2027, the redevelopment into The New Quarter represents a significant investment by Moolman Group, in partnership with Retail Evolution Fund, breathing new life into this established Pretoria East landmark and giving it fresh appeal for a new generation.

A New Vision for a Familiar Destination

Located on the corner of Atterbury Road and Selikats Causeway, the centre’s Pick ‘n Pay Hypermarket has been an integral part of daily life in Pretoria East for decades, earning the trust of generations of shoppers through its value and convenience. The redevelopment builds on that legacy, creating a destination that will give even more reasons to visit.

Expanding by approximately 8,000m², the refreshed centre will feature a fully upgraded Pick n Pay Hypermarket alongside a brand-new 3,000m² Woolworths, Woolworths Café and Woolworths Edit. The expanded retail mix will introduce new fashion, health and beauty stores, essential services and everyday conveniences, while a lively restaurant node will create an inviting outdoor space where family and friends can gather over great food and entertainment.

Designed Around the Community

Construction will be phased to minimise disruption. Regular updates on construction milestones, new retailer announcements and behind-the-scenes progress will be shared via the centre’s social media platforms and community communication channels, ensuring shoppers remain informed throughout the journey.

“This redevelopment is about investing in the future of Pretoria East while recognising the important role that this beloved centre has played in the area for many years,” said a spokesperson. “The redevelopment has been intentionally planned to create a destination where convenience meets lifestyle, giving local families a place they will come to cherish.”

The planned transformation marks a significant change for the established shopping centre, with The New Quarter expected to provide Pretoria East with an expanded retail and lifestyle destination when it opens in November 2027.

For ongoing redevelopment updates, follow the centre on social media: Facebook | Instagram

The post Faerie Glen Shopping Centre Redevelopment Set for November 2027 Opening appeared first on Alt News Network.

DURBAN, South Africa — President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced plans to make 2.5 million hectares of state-owned land available to black farmers, arguing that expanding participation in commercial agriculture is necessary to address historical inequalities and strengthen South Africa’s food production capacity.

The proposal, outlined in the president’s weekly letter to the nation and reported by BusinessTech on October 12, places agricultural transformation at the centre of the government’s strategy to expand the sector, develop new commercial farmers and create employment.

However, the policy also raises questions about how the beneficiaries will be selected, whether the land will be transferred with secure title, and how the government intends to ensure that the initiative delivers measurable gains in agricultural output.

Land redistribution and the food security argument

Ramaphosa has argued that South Africa’s agricultural sector remains divided, with predominantly white-owned commercial farms accounting for most commercial production while black farmers contribute approximately 10%.

The president maintains that relying on a relatively small segment of the population to meet the country’s food requirements presents a long-term risk, particularly as population growth increases demand for food.

His stated objective is to expand the pool of skilled, productive commercial farmers while addressing inequalities in access to agricultural land and resources.

Yet the relationship between racial representation and food security warrants closer examination. Increasing the number of black commercial farmers does not, by itself, guarantee higher production, lower food prices or greater resilience against drought, disease and other agricultural risks.

The effectiveness of the initiative will ultimately depend on whether beneficiaries can operate viable farms, gain access to markets and produce food competitively.

Should access to state land be determined by race?

The proposal also raises questions about the criteria used to allocate a public resource.

The government’s stated objective is to address historical exclusion and broaden participation in commercial agriculture. Critics argue, however, that a programme restricted to a particular racial group raises questions about equal treatment and whether eligibility criteria are sufficiently aligned with the economic objective of increasing food production.

These questions are not necessarily resolved by accepting or rejecting land redistribution as a policy goal.

South Africa’s history of racially discriminatory land ownership is an important part of the debate. Equally, a programme involving millions of hectares of public land requires transparent selection criteria, clear performance expectations and evidence that the chosen beneficiaries can put the land to productive use.

A key question is whether the government can demonstrate that its allocation framework will maximise agricultural output while meeting its stated transformation objectives.

Land is only the beginning

Ramaphosa has acknowledged that providing access to land and formal title is only the first step in developing successful commercial farmers.

The president has called for aspiring farmers to receive training, mentorship, technical knowledge, appropriate technology and other resources required to operate commercially.

He has also pointed to existing initiatives involving industry organisations, including the Citrus Growers’ Association, Grain South Africa, the National Wool Growers’ Association, Potatoes South Africa, Red Meat Industry Services, the Milk Producers’ Organisation and Fruit South Africa.

These organisations can potentially help new entrants acquire practical knowledge of crop production, animal health, weather patterns and the operational demands of commercial farming.

Access to finance is another critical consideration.

According to BusinessTech, the Land Bank and the Department of Agriculture have established a blended finance instrument, with commercial banks also participating. Ramaphosa has encouraged further participation by agribusinesses and financial institutions to improve funding options for agricultural development.

The availability of affordable capital, working funds, equipment, water, infrastructure and reliable routes to market will influence whether the land becomes a productive asset or an underutilised government holding.

The unanswered question of implementation

South Africa’s agricultural sector has considerable economic significance. BusinessTech reported that the industry employs approximately 944,000 people, with another 200,000 working across the broader value chain. Agricultural exports reached R270 billion in 2025, according to the report.

These figures underline the economic stakes involved in any policy intended to expand commercial production.

The government must therefore explain how the 2.5 million hectares will be allocated, how much land is immediately available for cultivation, what conditions will accompany transfers and how beneficiaries will be supported after receiving access to land.

It must also establish how success will be measured. The number of hectares allocated is an administrative output; increased production, commercially viable farms, employment and improved food availability are economic outcomes.

Transparent reporting on these measures would allow the public to assess whether the initiative is delivering on its promises.

Transformation must deliver results

The government’s proposal brings together two objectives: correcting historical inequalities in agriculture and expanding South Africa’s productive capacity.

Those objectives may be pursued together, but their success cannot be assumed simply because land has been allocated. The programme will require sound beneficiary selection, secure tenure, financing, technical support and accountability for the use of public assets.

The central test is whether the policy creates productive farms that strengthen food security and contribute to economic growth.

Will the government publish enough information for the public to assess the allocation process and its results? How will it ensure that beneficiaries receive the resources required to farm successfully? And what safeguards will prevent the programme from becoming a land-distribution exercise measured by hectares transferred rather than food produced and jobs created?

The post Ramaphosa’s 2.5 Million-Hectare Land Plan Under Scrutiny appeared first on Alt News Network.

South African motorists have been hit by another substantial increase in fuel prices. Now, with the possibility of further increases in November, questions are mounting over whether the government is doing enough to protect consumers — or whether motorists could face additional financial pressure through existing and proposed transport-related charges.

The October 7 fuel-price adjustment increased 93-octane petrol by R3.12 per litre and 95-octane petrol by R3.33. Diesel prices rose by between R2.84 and R3.24 per litre, depending on the grade. The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources attributed the increases primarily to higher international crude oil and petroleum product prices, supply shortages, shipping costs and geopolitical uncertainty.

The impact extends well beyond the filling station. Fuel is an essential input for freight operators, agricultural producers, public transport and businesses that depend on deliveries. When transport costs rise, the pressure can eventually reach supermarket shelves and household budgets.

For families already struggling to cover food, electricity, school expenses and transport, another substantial increase could leave even less room in the monthly budget.

Temporary relief was possible. Why has it ended?

Earlier in 2026, National Treasury introduced temporary General Fuel Levy relief to soften the impact of rising international fuel prices. The measures ran until June 30, after which the levies returned to their normal levels.

The government’s intervention demonstrated that temporary tax relief is an available policy instrument. However, it also came at a fiscal cost, and Treasury must account for the revenue forgone when deciding whether to extend similar measures.

That leaves motorists with a legitimate question: if emergency relief was possible earlier this year, what would prevent the government from considering another temporary intervention if international prices continue to place exceptional pressure on consumers?

President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged that rising fuel costs are affecting consumers and businesses, while indicating that further relief must be assessed against the country’s fiscal position.

The debate is therefore not simply about whether the government can reduce fuel taxes. It is about the circumstances under which it considers such relief justified, how it would finance the intervention and whether other expenditure priorities could be adjusted.

The RAF’s proposed levy increase raises further questions

The Road Accident Fund has proposed increasing its fuel levy from R2.25 to as much as R3 per litre. That would represent an additional 75 cents per litre — a substantial increase for motorists who already contribute to the Fund whenever they purchase fuel.

The RAF’s position is that its funding model is under pressure from declining fuel sales, inflation and the scale of its claims obligations.

But the proposal has encountered resistance. On October 12, Transport Minister Barbara Creecy reportedly said she would not seek the proposed increase while she remained in office. She argued that the RAF needed to address its institutional and management challenges.

This distinction matters: the proposed increase is not an approved new levy, and the minister has publicly rejected pursuing it.

Nevertheless, the underlying question remains. How should South Africa finance compensation for road accident victims without continually increasing the burden on motorists? And what reforms are needed to ensure that the Fund can meet its obligations?

Those are questions that deserve transparent answers, supported by audited financial statements, clear performance measures and a credible plan for dealing with outstanding claims.

Could motorists face additional vehicle charges?

Dear South Africa’s fuel-price campaign also raises concerns about possible additional charges associated with annual vehicle licence renewals.

The campaign argues that motorists could be required to pay both fuel-related levies and a separate annual charge, creating an additional burden for vehicle owners.

However, the precise legal status, scope and amount of the alleged licence-disc surcharge must be established through the relevant departmental documents. A claim that regulations are being drafted should not be confused with a finalised regulation or an implemented tax.

The public deserves clarity from the Department of Transport. Is such a charge formally being developed? Which vehicles would be affected? What would the money fund? Would conventional motorists face a new charge even though they already pay fuel levies?

Until those questions are answered with documentary evidence, motorists are entitled to demand transparency without being expected to accept speculation as fact.

The November warning: forecast, not final price

The Automobile Association has warned that preliminary fuel-price data could point to a petrol increase of up to R4.58 per litre in November, with diesel also facing a possible substantial increase.

That figure is a forecast, not a confirmed price adjustment. The final outcome will depend on the factors used in the monthly pricing calculation, including international product prices, the exchange rate and applicable adjustments.

Even so, the warning underscores the importance of timely communication from the authorities. Households and businesses need reliable information to plan for possible increases rather than learning the full impact only when new prices take effect.

South Africans deserve answers

The fuel-price debate exposes a difficult policy challenge. International market conditions influence the cost of fuel, but domestic taxes and regulated pricing components also affect what consumers pay.

The government cannot control every movement in the international oil market. It can, however, explain its tax decisions, disclose the reasoning behind proposed charges and demonstrate how it intends to balance public revenue against the economic consequences of higher fuel costs.

The central questions are straightforward: Why did temporary relief end when fuel costs remained a concern? What alternatives have been assessed? What reforms will address the RAF’s financial difficulties? And will the government rule out additional vehicle charges until their necessity, legal basis and impact have been properly explained?

South Africans should not have to rely on social-media rumours to understand policies that affect the cost of commuting, transporting food and running a business.

Have your say

Dear South Africa has opened a public campaign inviting South Africans to respond to its concerns about fuel levies, possible vehicle licence charges and the reinstatement of temporary relief.

Read the campaign and examine its supporting information before deciding whether to submit your own views: dearsouthafrica.co.za

Should the government reconsider temporary fuel-tax relief? What reforms should precede any additional RAF revenue measures? And what evidence should officials provide before introducing new charges for motorists?

The post South Africans Face Another Fuel Price Shock as Tax Relief Debate Intensifies appeared first on Alt News Network.

KwaZulu-Natal, 8 October 2026:Gateway Theatre of Shopping celebrates its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter century of growth, exciting milestones and unforgettable moments shared with the shoppers and communities who have helped shape its journey into one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most popular shopping destinations.

Since opening on 27 September 2001, Gateway has grown from approximately 118,000m² to around 176,000m², while its store count has increased from around 117 to more than 380. Today, the centre welcomes over 24 million visits annually and provides employment for more than 5,000 people.

For Gateway, however, its 25th birthday is as much about what comes next as it is about looking back.

“Gateway has changed considerably over 25 years because our customers, and the way they spend their time, has changed too,” says Ayesha Sewbaran, Marketing Manager at Gateway. “This birthday is an opportunity to thank the people who have supported us while continuing to give them new reasons to visit, discover and enjoy Gateway.”

25 Years In, There Is Still Plenty That’s New

A line-up of new stores and experiences will add to Gateway’s offering. These include Aura, a premium coffee concept featuring a robotic barista alongside organic African and South American coffees, luxury desserts and wellness treats. Fairways will bring a dedicated golf lifestyle concept to the centre, while Shooters will introduce a competitive socialising experience combining games, food, drinks and events.

New retail arrivals also include a bespoke Liverpool store, alongside the new flagship Foschini store. The additions reflect Gateway’s continued shift beyond traditional retail, bringing shopping, dining, entertainment and experiences together in one convenient destination.

A Birthday Shared With Shoppers

The celebrations took on a special meaning through a Charity Car Run in partnership with Auto-emotive and Reach For A Dream. 25 Young dreamers each had the opportunity to choose their favourite supercar for a thrill ride around Gateway, followed by a morning of family fun and birthday cake.

Gateway is also turning its birthday into a treat for shoppers, with four experiences valued at R10,000 each up for grabs. The prizes will cover fashion, beauty, entertainment and fine dining, giving four winners the chance to enjoy Gateway their way.

“Reaching 25 years is a milestone we wanted to share,” adds Sewbaran. “Whether that means discovering something new, winning an incredible experience or helping create a memorable morning for 25 very special Dreamers, this celebration is about the community that has grown with us.”

Gateway’s 25th birthday campaign will run from 25 September to 22 October 2026.

For competition entry details, terms and conditions, and more information about Gateway’s birthday celebrations, visit gatewayworld.co.za or follow the centre on social media: instagram.com.

The post Gateway Theatre of Shopping Celebrates 25 Years in KwaZulu-Natal appeared first on Alt News Network.

Johannesburg, 11 September 2026:Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are changing the way industries operate, businesses compete, and economies evolve. For organisations, the challenge now is working out where the genuine opportunities are and when to act.

These questions will be at the heart of Singularity Summit South Africa 2026, which has unveiled its full programme ahead of the Summit at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 October. Presented in collaboration with Old Mutual, event sponsors Google Cloud and Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), and metaverse partner UBU, this year’s Summit will bring together over 40 speakers from around the world to examine the technologies, ideas and shifts influencing the future of business and society.

The final programme adds Felix Cheung, Founder and CEO of the Bairong Group in China; Kim Hulett, biotech entrepreneur and founder of Next Biosciences; Shayne Mann, co-CEO of Singularity South Africa and CEO of Mann Made; Ran Neuner, founder of Crypto Banter; Hywel George, global investor and former chief investment officer; Marko Stavrou, creator economy specialist; and Rajesh Pasungili, founder and CEO of Resolute Education, to an already extensive line-up of global and African innovators, entrepreneurs, business leaders and technology specialists.

They join previously announced speakers including AI specialists Amanda Manna and Dario Fanucchi, robotics pioneer Tilly Lockey, enterprise AI leader Barak Kaufman, digital transformation expert Valter Adão, Hamed Kazim and South African inventor Fana Shabane. Acclaimed poet, author and broadcaster Lebo Mashile will return as the Summit’s Poet and MC.

From AI to the Future of Business

Artificial intelligence will be one of the major themes of the two-day programme, with speakers examining its rapid evolution, the challenge of moving enterprise AI from experimentation to implementation, and what the next generation of AI could mean for organisations and their people.

The conversation will extend into digital transformation, leadership, entrepreneurship, investment, robotics, the future of cities, and the changing skills required to navigate an increasingly technology-driven economy.

“The conversation around technology has shifted significantly. Business leaders are no longer asking whether AI and other exponential technologies will affect their organisations, but where to invest, how to implement them effectively and how to prepare their people for the changes ahead,” says Mic Mann, co-CEO of Singularity South Africa.

“The Summit creates an opportunity to step outside the day-to-day demands of running an organisation and engage with the bigger shifts taking place. The aim is for delegates to leave better informed, better connected and with a clearer sense of where the opportunities lie,” added Shayne Mann, co-CEO of Singularity South Africa.

Celiwe Ross, Group Chief Human Capital and Corporate Affairs Officer at Old Mutual, says the future will not be defined by technology alone, but by how people choose to use it. “I would encourage business leaders, investors and professionals from across industries to be part of this conversation, because the future is not only about the technologies we adopt, but about how we equip our people to grow, respond and lead in an environment that is constantly changing. As AI and other exponential technologies accelerate the pace of disruption, leaders have an opportunity to think differently about how technology can unlock human potential, create new opportunities, and shape more inclusive growth. The organisations that thrive will be those that prepare their people and their cultures for change, rather than simply preparing for the next technology. The Summit brings together some of the world’s leading thinkers, innovators and entrepreneurs to explore these shifts and, importantly, what they mean for people, business and Africa’s future,” Ross says.

Global Perspectives With an African Lens

While the programme brings international expertise to Johannesburg, the Summit will also examine these developments through an African lens, including how businesses on the continent can harness new technologies, where new opportunities for innovation and investment are emerging, and how African entrepreneurs and innovators can play a greater role in shaping the global technology landscape.

Alongside keynote presentations, the programme will feature panel discussions bringing together different perspectives on some of the most pressing questions facing business leaders. Delegates will also have access to various AI workshops and masterclasses to upskill and empower our community. An interactive expo showcasing emerging technologies and innovations, as well as networking opportunities with speakers, executives, entrepreneurs, and fellow delegates.

The announcement of the full programme marks the final stage in the build-up to Singularity Summit South Africa 2026, with more than 40 speakers contributing to two days of keynote presentations, discussions, panels, interactive experiences and networking.

For more information, programme updates, and bookings, visit the Singularity Summit South Africa website.

The post Singularity Summit South Africa 2026 Unveils Full Programme appeared first on Alt News Network.

Six months into its first funding round of R 10.5 million, the Digital News Transformation Fund is helping community publishers launch online platforms, grow audiences, and explore new sources of revenue

JOHANNESBURG, 9 September 2026: Independent South African newsrooms are gaining significant digital momentum through the Digital News Transformation Fund (DNTF), with a 144-year-old local newspaper going online for the first time and community publishers reaching audiences exceeding one million people.

The Fund’s half-year progress report, covering January to June 2026, shows how 21 independent newsrooms are using R10.5 million in funding to strengthen their digital operations. Ten have launched their first-ever websites, more than 300 stories have been published by newsrooms starting their digital journeys, and more than 65 journalists and media staff have received training.

The DNTF supports independent and community news publishers serving areas often overlooked by mainstream media, including township and rural communities. Support is structured according to three levels of digital maturity: Build, for newsrooms establishing their first digital foundations; Grow, for publishers expanding an existing digital presence; and Engage, for more digitally mature publishers developing new revenue models.

The leap from no digital presence to a first platform

Some of the most significant changes have come from publishers that began the year with little or no digital presence. Ten of the 11 newsrooms in the Build tier have now launched a website or digital platform.

Among them is the Kokstad Advertiser in KwaZulu-Natal. The 144-year-old newspaper had no digital presence in January but recorded monthly online reach of up to 354,000 people by March. Its digital coverage of a missing seven-year-old girl helped mobilise a community search and formal police search-and-rescue operation, demonstrating the potential for established local journalism to find new relevance and reach online.

“We’ve gone from being accessible only to local print subscribers to reaching over 32,000 followers and up to 354,000 people a month across South Africa,” said Muhammad Luqman Jamal, DNTF Project Manager at The Kokstad Advertiser. “In small towns like Kokstad, local news is at real risk of disappearing as print audiences shrink. This project has given us a viable digital future and made sure trusted, hyperlocal journalism keeps reaching the Greater Kokstad community.”

Other Build publishers are also gaining traction. Stokvel Media Hub, for example, grew its TikTok following from 344 to 5,945 in three months.

Existing publishers extend their reach

Newsrooms that entered the programme with an existing digital presence have focused on expanding their audiences and finding new ways to reach their communities. Highveld Chronicle in Mpumalanga increased its Facebook reach by 233%, from approximately 300,000 to more than one million people a month. It also extended its isiNdebele content onto regional radio, reaching more than one million listeners a week.

Xenor Projects, which operates three community mastheads south of Johannesburg, reached a combined 1.7 million people digitally. Among its innovations were QR-code stickers placed in taxis, allowing commuters to download editions directly to their phones.

For the Fund’s most digitally mature publishers, attention is also turning to revenue.

Digital news platform explain.co.za grew its website audience from approximately 3,800 users in January to more than 60,000 by May and now generates more than half its income from non-grant sources. These include reader memberships, digital marketing services and video monetisation partnerships.

Local journalism driving action

The progress recorded during the first six months extends beyond audience growth.

In the Eastern Cape, Eagle Eye News investigated complaints around hiring and maladministration at Burgersdorp Correctional Services. A community petition followed and, within three months, Correctional Services began a renovation and infrastructure project that prioritised local youth employment.

In Lenasia South, Zini Advertising’s reporting during severe flooding reinforced official safety warnings and prompted discussion around neglected drainage infrastructure. In KwaZulu-Natal, Inkundla Yezindaba’s “One Community, One Voice” campaign gave residents of Inanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu a platform to raise development concerns with local decision-makers.

A voluntary survey of 87 readers provided a further indication of the role local news plays in communities. Of those surveyed, 72% said local news coverage had directly prompted them to take some form of action, while 71% said they mostly or completely trusted their main news source.

“These are early results, not the finish line. Community media is about being close to the people we serve, understanding their languages, challenges and the issues that matter to them,” said Anetta Mangxaba, DNTF Co-Chair.

“The first cohort is showing what becomes possible when community publishers have the resources to strengthen this work digitally, reach wider audiences and create stronger platforms for their communities to be heard.”

Building for long-term sustainability

While the early audience growth is encouraging, the Fund acknowledges that turning digital reach into sustainable revenue takes time. Staff capacity, connectivity, financial systems and governance remain challenges for smaller community publishers and will be priorities during the second half of the year.

AIP and Google, the Fund’s partners, shared the following reflections on Cohort 1’s progress to date:

“It is still early days but there are signs of green shoots. There is energy and innovation in this sector. I’m excited. The Fund is providing the spark to get projects going,” – Kate Skinner, AIP Executive Director.

“The digital milestones and audience growth achieved by these 21 newsrooms in just six months are highly encouraging. Seeing township, rural, and hyperlocal newsrooms successfully launch digital platforms and diversify their revenue is a powerful testament to the strength of this program. We look forward to seeing how their platforms and coverage will continue to grow in the months ahead,” – Marianne Erasmus, Google News Partnerships Lead: Middle East & Africa.

A second cohort of 22 publishers, backed by R15.8 million, has now been onboarded, bringing the total number of independent newsrooms supported through the Fund’s first two rounds to 43. Of these, 39 serve rural, township, peri-urban or informal settlement communities and 28 publish in at least one African language.

A full end-of-year report will follow in the first quarter of 2027.

The Digital News Transformation Fund is a partnership between Google and the Association of Independent Publishers, administered by Tshikululu Social Investments.

For more information, please visit dntfund.org.za.

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South Africa’s proposed public procurement regulations have placed race, ownership and preferential procurement firmly back in the spotlight, with critics questioning whether the government’s latest approach could exclude some businesses from competing for state contracts.

The controversy follows the publication by National Treasury of the Draft General Public Procurement Regulations, 2026, on April 16. The regulations are intended to give effect to the Public Procurement Act, 2024, and establish mechanisms, thresholds and conditions for preferential procurement. They include provisions dealing with set-asides, pre-qualification and mandatory subcontracting.

The draft has now attracted criticism from business organisations and commentators who argue that some of its requirements go beyond preferential treatment and could amount to direct exclusion based on ownership and race.

Among those raising the issue is National Employers’ Association of South Africa CEO Gerhard Papenfus, whose concerns were reported by Newsday. YouTube commentator Renaldo has subsequently highlighted the issue, asking whether the proposed regulations amount to discrimination against white-owned businesses.

The question is not simply whether South Africa should pursue economic redress. It is whether the method being proposed creates a new form of exclusion — and whether that exclusion can be justified within South Africa’s constitutional procurement framework.

What Do The Draft Regulations Propose?

The proposed regulations introduce different procurement requirements depending on the value and nature of a government contract.

For contracts below R20 million, the regulations provide for set-asides involving specified categories of suppliers. These include black people, black women, women, people with disabilities, military veterans and certain qualifying enterprises and geographic categories.

Under the proposed framework, businesses seeking to qualify for particular set-asides may have to meet a 100% ownership requirement relating to the category concerned.

This is the provision that has generated much of the controversy.

Papenfus argues that the requirement would effectively exclude businesses with any white male ownership from certain procurement opportunities. He has pointed to the example of a company that is 90% black-owned but would nevertheless fail to qualify for a category requiring 100% ownership. He has also questioned what happens to companies that have complied with BEE requirements for many years but do not meet the new ownership threshold.

The draft regulations do not, however, mean that every government contract below R20 million is automatically unavailable to every business that does not meet a particular racial ownership category. The set-aside provisions contain conditions concerning the availability of qualifying suppliers and the applicable procurement category.

That distinction is important, but it does not remove the central question surrounding the ownership requirement.

Why Is The 100% Ownership Requirement Significant?

South Africa has used preferential procurement and BEE policies for years as mechanisms intended to address the economic consequences of apartheid and historical exclusion.

The proposed regulations take that principle into a more specific procurement environment.

For certain set-aside categories, ownership is not simply a factor that can improve a company’s position against competing bidders. It can become a condition for eligibility.

That creates a fundamental question for business owners:

If two companies are capable of supplying the same product or service, can one be prevented from competing for a particular state contract because of the racial composition of its ownership?

Renaldo’s argument is that this is precisely what the regulations risk doing.

In his YouTube commentary on the Newsday report, he questioned how such a policy could be regarded differently from other forms of race-based discrimination simply because it is being introduced as part of a redress or transformation programme.

He also raised the position of younger business owners who were born after apartheid and had no involvement in the policies of the past.

The argument is straightforward: if an individual starts a business decades after apartheid and is subsequently excluded from a government procurement opportunity because he or she does not belong to the prescribed racial ownership category, what principle determines whether that is legitimate redress or discrimination?

The Government’s Transformation Objective

The government’s position needs to be considered alongside those concerns.

Preferential procurement is not a new concept in South Africa. The country’s constitutional framework specifically provides for procurement policies that may advance people disadvantaged by unfair discrimination.

The Public Procurement Act, signed into law in July 2024, provides the legislative framework for the new procurement system. The draft regulations are intended to bring that framework into operation.

National Treasury has said the regulations are designed to establish the mechanisms and thresholds necessary for preferential procurement while also supporting categories of suppliers that have historically been disadvantaged.

The policy objective is therefore not hidden.

The question is whether the specific mechanism chosen to achieve that objective is proportionate, effective and capable of meeting the constitutional requirements governing public procurement.

When Does Preference Become Exclusion?

This may be the central issue emerging from the debate.

There is a significant difference between giving a qualifying business an advantage during a procurement process and preventing another business from entering that particular procurement process altogether.

South Africa’s procurement system is required to operate according to principles including fairness, transparency, competitiveness and cost-effectiveness, while the Constitution also permits measures designed to advance people disadvantaged by unfair discrimination.

That creates a balancing exercise.

How far can government go in using race and ownership as procurement criteria before preferential procurement becomes exclusionary?

And how should that balance be applied where the excluded business may have a lower price, greater technical expertise or a stronger record of delivering the required service?

Those questions are likely to become increasingly important as the new procurement framework progresses.

The Economic Question

There is also an economic dimension that extends beyond the race debate.

Papenfus has warned that restricting the supplier pool could increase costs and ultimately affect taxpayers and service delivery. He argues that fewer eligible suppliers could mean less competition, potentially resulting in higher prices.

That concern is not limited to Papenfus.

Business Leadership South Africa CEO Busi Mavuso has separately questioned the economic impact of the proposed regulations, arguing that National Treasury has not produced an economic impact assessment demonstrating what the new system will cost or how effective it will be.

Mavuso has raised particular concerns about specialised sectors, where the pool of companies capable of delivering technically complex projects may already be limited.

Her argument is that transformation remains an important objective, but that procurement policy must also consider whether sufficient qualifying suppliers exist to maintain competition and deliver projects efficiently.

That introduces another question:

What happens when the policy objective and the practical realities of a particular market collide?

Is This About Race Or Redress?

This is where the political debate becomes particularly difficult.

Critics describe the proposed provisions as racial discrimination because eligibility can depend on the racial composition of a company’s ownership.

Supporters of preferential procurement are likely to argue that the provisions form part of a broader programme of economic redress intended to address structural inequalities that remain decades after apartheid.

Both positions can be stated without ignoring the underlying evidence.

South Africa’s history is relevant to the policy.

But so is the present-day position of business owners who had no involvement in apartheid and are nevertheless required to operate within a procurement system that continues to use racial classifications.

The difficult question is whether historical disadvantage can justify contemporary exclusion indefinitely, and if so, what criteria should determine when such measures are no longer necessary.

What Happens To Businesses That Do Not Qualify?

For a small business owner, the debate is not theoretical.

A company may have invested years in building its capabilities, employing staff, paying taxes and supplying private-sector clients. It may have previously participated in government procurement under the existing BEE framework.

Under the proposed system, however, some procurement opportunities could depend on whether the business satisfies a particular ownership category.

That raises questions about the long-term consequences for companies that fall outside those categories.

Could they simply redirect their businesses toward private-sector markets?

Would they be encouraged to restructure ownership?

Could the system encourage genuine partnerships between established businesses and qualifying enterprises?

Or could it create incentives for ownership arrangements designed primarily to satisfy procurement requirements?

The answers will matter not only to companies affected by the rules but also to the state institutions responsible for implementing them.

A Wider Debate About South Africa’s Procurement Future

The draft regulations form part of a much broader transformation of South Africa’s public procurement system.

They are not yet simply another set of rules already operating across government. They were published for public comment as part of the process of bringing the Public Procurement Act into effect.

That consultation process provides an opportunity for government, business organisations and members of the public to challenge, support or propose changes to the regulations.

The controversy surrounding the 100% ownership requirements may therefore be only the beginning of a much larger debate.

There are legitimate questions about historical economic exclusion.

There are also legitimate questions about whether modern procurement rules should exclude individuals from opportunities because of their racial classification or ownership structure.

There are questions about competition.

There are questions about cost.

There are questions about transformation.

And there are questions about whether the state can achieve all of these objectives simultaneously without compromising one in pursuit of another.

The Questions South Africa Now Has To Answer

The debate sparked by the draft regulations ultimately goes beyond whether someone agrees with Renaldo, Papenfus, National Treasury or the broader transformation agenda.

The evidence shows that the proposed framework contains ownership requirements linked to specific preferential procurement categories.

The argument over what those provisions mean is now moving into the public domain.

The important questions are therefore perhaps more complicated than simply asking whether the regulations are “racist” or “transformative.”

Does a 100% ownership requirement constitute legitimate economic redress, or does it cross the line into exclusion based on race?

Should a business that is 90% black-owned really be excluded from a category requiring 100% ownership?

Should a business with decades of BEE compliance nevertheless be excluded from a particular tender because its ownership does not meet the prescribed category?

How should government balance transformation against competition, price, and service delivery?

And perhaps most importantly, how long can race-based economic measures remain necessary before South Africa begins asking whether they are creating new forms of exclusion rather than dismantling old ones?

Those are questions that National Treasury, political parties, business organisations and the public will ultimately have to confront as South Africa’s new procurement framework takes shape.

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