BizNews Radio

Eskom chairman Mteto Nyati says cynics are wrong to claim it will be back to loadshedding hell after Election’24 on May 29. He reckons SA’s longest loadshedding-free run in years is based on a solid foundation. The mechanical engineer with an impeccable business pedigree explains how SA’s much improved electricity supply is the result of applying sensible management practices, including performance-related incentives for Eskom staff and productive engagement with its shareholder. He confidently predicts the worst of loadshedding is over, with sufficient capacity coming on stream to support future economic growth. Nyati spoke to BizNews editor Alec Hogg.

‘China is very much on our radar,’ US economy shows unexpected resilience - Mark Perchtold (OMBA)

Mark Perchtold, the founding director of OMBA, a company specialising in using Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), maintains a positive outlook on China despite geopolitical challenges. In an interview with BizNews, Perchtold attributes his outlook on China to various stimulatory measures, including significant reforms by the Chinese governments to boost China's property market. He believes that geopolitical risks are mitigated by China's extensive bilateral agreements with other regions. Perchtold also emphasised the importance of closely monitoring inflation and the Federal Reserve's response, as easier monetary policies and lower interest rates are crucial for boosting the US economy. He noted that the US economy has shown surprising resilience, with robust employment data despite rising interest rates. Regarding AI investments, Perchtold advises maintaining some exposure but warns against overcommitting

While media and polling narratives might suggest otherwise, South African elections are won or lost on logistics - the practicality of actually getting voters to the polls and having party faithful there to welcome them. Former DA Leader Mmusi Maimane reminds us of reality in a pre-election interview where the Presidential candidate discloses BOSA’s targets for 2024 - and beyond. He spoke to BizNews editor Alec Hogg.

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In "How to Fix (Unfxck) a Country," economist Dr. Roy Havemann unveils a roadmap to reboot South Africa post-State Capture. Through his exploration of the six fundamental "E's" – Eskom, Education, Environment, Exports, Equality, and Ethics – Havemann offers practical strategies gleaned from global experiences. Drawing from consultations with esteemed entities, he illustrates how nations rebounded from crises, advocating for swift governmental action. This insightful interview with BizNews charts a path for South Africa's transformation into a powerhouse.

In a dynamic Q&A between Alec Hogg and James Lorimer, the shadow minister of Mineral Resources, the discussion spans from Namibia's significant oil finds to South Africa's energy landscape. Lorimer highlights potential job creation and revenue influx from oil and gas, while acknowledging policy hurdles. With insights into fracking, renewable energy, and electoral prospects, the dialogue offers a comprehensive view of energy and politics.

At the BizNews Conference in London, Frans Cronje discussed the ANC's electoral prospects, the influence of Jacob Zuma, and the dynamics between the ANC and EFF. He analysed the ANC's strategic behavior and potential alliances, emphasizing the pragmatic and cautious approach the party often takes. Cronje highlighted the complexities within the ANC and its resistance to extreme leftist policies, suggesting that despite internal and external challenges, a complete collapse of the ANC or South African governance is unlikely. He also addressed the implications for smaller parties and the potential for future political and economic recovery in South Africa.

Political veteran and long-time leader of the Official Opposition, Tony Leon, shares his perspectives on next week’s South African elections. With the Big Vote a week away, Leon judges which the parties campaigns he reckons have been successful - and not. And tells BizNews editor Alec Hogg what will be occupying the minds of the political leaders in the immediate aftermath of May 29.

Self-made business mogul turned politician Herman Mashaba, is confident Action SA will be the surprise package of South Africa’s 2024 National and Provincial elections. He says hard work over the past three years; a campaign that resonates with all races; and a God-centred approach is set to catapult ActionSA from its excellent debut in 2021 into major player this year. He is aiming high - countering poor poll showings with on-the-ground feedback from the party’s 320 000 activists suggesting  even third place (behind the ANC and DA) would be “a disappointing result”. He spoke to BizNews editor Alec Hogg.

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While South Africa grapples with high unemployment rates, a critical shortage of skilled professionals persists. The Department of Home Affairs’ critical skills list, released in October 2023, highlights the acute demand for business managers, project managers, customer service professionals, supply chain experts, and engineers. Traditionally, these roles have required formal degrees. Anne Rutledge, Executive Director of Talent Solutions at Resourgenix told Biznews in an interview that there is a global shift towards skills-based hiring and it is gaining traction in South Africa not only in the tech sector but also in finance, administrative, and entry-level positions.Rutledge explained that the move towards skill-based hiring is driven not only by the shortage of critical skills but also by a new generation of job seekers who may not wish to pursue traditional university education.Rutledge offered suggestions on how organisations can implement skills-based hiring practices to unlock untapped potential and stay attuned to the evolving workforce landscape.

With only a week to go before the most important election since 1994, many South Africans are still not sure which party to vote for. BizNews asked Dr. Ina Gouws of the Department of Political Studies and Governance at the University of the Free State to give viewers an objective and unbiased overview of the manifestos of five parties that are currently dominating the headlines: the ruling African National Congress (ANC), the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA), the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) of Commander-in-Chief Julius Malema, the MK Party of former President Jacob Zuma, and Gayton McKenzie’s Patriotic Alliance (PA). Dr Gouws details how each party wants to tackle the issues that most concern South Africans: crime, corruption, the economy, job creation, and power generation.