Small businesses can experience serious cash-flow problems even when they appear to be growing. Increased sales do not always translate into money in the bank, particularly when customers delay payments, stock absorbs working capital, or the business takes on new expenses before receiving revenue. A recent Xero South Africa report highlighted the scale of the problem, finding that 91% of South African SMEs were affected by late payments, with invoices paid an average of 18 days late. Rapid growth can also put pressure on cash flow because businesses often need to spend more on stock, employees, equipment, premises, marketing and other operating costs before the additional income from growth is received. Experts therefore recommend that business owners regularly forecast their cash flow, closely monitor accounts receivable and avoid tying up too much money in inventory.

GUEST: Lerato Mathodlana, founder and editor of The Founder Brief

Thembisile Hani Local Municipality in Mpumalanga has completed a R5.27-million road construction project in Mthombomuhle, Ward 26, using its own internal capacity rather than appointing an external contractor. According to the municipality, the project commenced in March 2026 and was completed in August. The reported project value comprises R2 million from the Municipal Infrastructure Grant and R3.27 million from the municipality’s own funding, while fuel and other operational costs are excluded from the stated amount.

The municipality says the project also incorporated stormwater infrastructure and created 20 temporary employment opportunities.

GUEST: Lesetja Jacob Dikgale, Executive Mayor, Thembisile Hani Local Municipality

Peet Viljoen has been denied bail and will remain in custody after appearing in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court on Monday, 17 August. The court deemed him a flight risk, which was a key factor in refusing bail. His case involves more than 400 charges linked to an alleged multimillion-rand property fraud scheme.

GUEST: Mike Bolhuis, Specialist Investigator

Following vote day, which was on 13 August, Zambia’s Electoral Commission has suspended the counting of votes and announcement of election results nationwide following reports of violence targeting election officials in some districts. 

GUEST: Dr Tendai Mbanje – Governance and Elections Expert at the University of Pretoria

Gaming has grown into a powerful social and entertainment space, with communities that already exist both online and in the real world. We look at how brands can engage these audiences authentically by creating experiences that add value, rather than simply placing their logos on something popular.

GUEST: Christie Stanbridge - Hyprop’s Brand and Campaigns Marketing Manager.

We are in a significant transition where leadership is concerned, both in the public and private sector. Maybe even in the political space. For years, thought leaders have emphasized the need for change in leadership approaches. Investing in the development and mentorship of future leaders is not just a matter of organizational sustainability, it is a fundamental imperative for the progress and prosperity of society as a whole. 

GUEST: Kgomotso Moalusi - From the South African Women in Dialogue (SAWID)

Dr Criselda Kananda is a doctor of philosophy in social work honoris causa from University of KZN. She is a mom, renowned wellness advocate, media personality, and inspirational leader with a diverse background as a radio and television presenter, author, businesswoman, facilitator, and professional counselor. Her career is marked by impactful contributions in health education, community development, and public service, both nationally and internationally...

GUEST: Dr. Criselda Kananda, Doctor of philosophy in social work and Media Personality

The Association of Private Security Owners of South Africa, TAPSOSA, is accusing state-owned entities including Eskom and Transnet of unfairly targeting and blacklisting 26 black-owned security companies. The organisation says the companies were subjected to restrictions without adequate opportunity to respond, threatening businesses, jobs and livelihoods, and is calling for the National Treasury and PSIRA to intervene.

GUEST: Sindiswa Changuion – TAPSOSA Spokesperson

The Constitutional Court delivered a judgment in the long-standing legal turf war between environmental groups and the government over the exploration rights granted to oil company Shell. The case, dating back to 2014, pertains to Shell's rights to conduct seismic surveys on the Wild Coast. Today the Constitutional Court ruled in favour of Wild Coast communities, overturning the SCA judgment that had allowed Shell, Impact Africa & Minister Mantashe to proceed with offshore exploration. 

GUEST: Kimal Harvey, Attorney at the Legal Resources Centre

The Madlanga Commission said it will lay criminal charges against controversial North West businessman, Suliman Carrim, for failing to appear before the inquiry. Carrim was expected to appear at the Madlanga Commission on today, four months after he allegedly collapsed at a gym following a heart attack. Carrim’s testimony has been postponed five times since April, with his lawyers repeatedly citing his medical condition.

GUEST: Dr. Shadi Maganoe, Legal Expert from Wits University