Category: South Africa Government

By Sihle Manda

In the villages and busy taxi ranks of Rustenburg, North West, blue LPG cylinders are becoming unlikely symbols of dignity and safety.

At the centre of this quiet energy shift is Refilwe Sebothoma, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Hakem Energies, a self-funded enterprise determined to tackle energy poverty while building opportunity from the ground up.

“I am very passionate about entrepreneurship because I believe it is a powerful tool that can help me empower people. Throughout the years, we have done a lot of things in different industries.”

Ending energy poverty 

Her move into the energy sector was driven by concern about what she calls “energy poverty”.

“In marginalised communities such as townships and villages, you still find people without electricity,” she explains.

“And for those who do have electricity, it is expensive and they experience things such as load shedding. Some villages can go for weeks without electricity. 

They then have to collect wood, while others resort to using paraffin and coal. There are a lot of dangers associated with energy poverty – and it mostly affects women.”

One incident cemented her resolve.

“In one of the villages where we sell gas, a woman was recently brutally raped and killed while she was collecting wood in the field. From a business perspective, it still shouldn’t be happening that people have to risk their lives. That is how this business was started. LPG for us was a solution that is already available, but we needed to package it in a way that low-earning communities can afford.”

Registered in 2022 and operational from 2024, Hakem Energies has built its model around flexibility.

“One of the biggest things for us is that customers can refill as they can afford. If you go to a fuel station to fill a 9kg cylinder, it will cost you about R400 and it is not something that our communities can afford. With our model, you can come with whatever amount you can afford. If you can only afford R40, that is what you will refill for.”

Affordability is matched by strict compliance.

“We just want to make sure that we comply correctly because this is a highly regulated industry. It is really important that we do things safely so that we can continue to save lives.”

Hakem’s reach extends beyond households.

“We serve not only households but also a broad range of commercial clients – from restaurants and resorts to funeral parlours, taxi ranks and mining operations. Whether in bulk or bottles, we deliver safe, certified LPG energy that keeps industries moving and communities thriving.”

Partnering with women and youth

The company also partners with local women and young people to distribute LPG.

“We see every flame lit not just as energy delivered, but as possibility ignited.”

Operating from North West, with a branch in Mpumalanga and plans to expand into Limpopo and Gauteng in 2026, the business employs 14 people.

Growth has required deep pockets in a tightly regulated sector

“We have five LPG boxes and one costs about R1 million – that’s a lot of money that many small businesses cannot afford. I was able to self-fund, but it has been very difficult and the margins are extremely tight. We are also consistently fighting against illegal operators who are not paying government taxes.”

Support from the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency’s (SEDFA) Asset Assist Programme provided a R230 000 grant.

“They sat with us to analyse where the business was and the kind of support that we needed. They bought us stock – cylinders and LPG – which really shifted things for us and gave us the ability to expand and attract new customers.”

Sebothoma believes national reforms could further unlock growth.

In his 2026 State of the Nation Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa committed more than R2.5 billion in funding for over 180 000 SMMEs, alongside R1 billion in guarantees. He also pledged to ease regulatory hurdles through the Business Licensing Bill and amend the National Credit Act regulations to make credit more accessible and affordable, particularly for women- and youth-led enterprises.

Sebothoma welcomed the commitment, describing it as “the kind of support SMMEs were looking to receive from government,” she concluded.

For more information, call +27 (68) 037 5410 or visit www.hakemenergies.co.za.

The NYDA can be reached at www.nyda.gov.za.

For more information on SEDFA’s Assest Assist Programme, visit www.dsbd.gov.za/asset-assist-progamme.

*This article first appeared in Vukuzenzele

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Traffic volumes along major corridors across the country are expected to increase as travellers return from various religious and holiday destinations.

With the majority of road crashes attributed to human behaviour, Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy has urged drivers, passengers and pedestrians to take responsibility for their conduct on shared roads.

Government continues to implement the 365 Days Arrive Alive Road Safety Campaign throughout the year, aimed at reducing road accidents and fatalities.

“Our mandate is clear: to ensure that every South African who sets out on a journey returns home safely. We are calling on every driver, passenger and pedestrian to take ownership of their conduct on our shared roads,” Creecy said.

She emphasised that law enforcement during this period will be uncompromising.

Should you find yourself in an emergency, call:

• Police: 10111
• Ambulance: 10177
• Emergency: 112
• ER24: 084 124
• Netcare: 082 911
• Report bad driving by using the National Traffic Call Centre Number: 0861 400 800. 

Road users are therefore encouraged to follow these safety tips:

• Make sure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition before departure.
• Take safety breaks every 2 hours or 200km.
• Be responsible for seatbelt wearing – always wear a seat belt and see that everyone in the car is wearing theirs.
• Obey the rules of the road and carry your driver’s licence with you.
• Be extra cautious, paying attention to the signals and brake lights of other vehicles, especially trucks.
• Carry a fully charged cell phone with you so you can request assistance in the event of an emergency.
• Always adjust your driving to the driving conditions and environment.
• If it is raining, turn your headlights and windscreen wipers on. Try to reduce speed and try not to brake suddenly. Often, there is oil and petrol on the road, which can cause you to skid out of control.
• Always keep in mind – if you cannot see or operate the vehicle safely, you should not be driving.
• Inspect your vehicle and trailer tyres, lights, tow connections, brakes, batteries, and fluid levels. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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South Africa’s tourism sector has emerged as a powerful driver of economic growth and job creation, with new data highlighting its recovery and expansion beyond pre-pandemic levels.

According to Statistics South Africa’s latest Tourism Satellite Account report, the sector supported 953 981 direct jobs in 2024 – accounting for 5.7% of the country’s labour force. 

This translates to roughly one in every 18 South Africans being directly employed in tourism.

The sector’s contribution to the economy has also surged. 

Tourism accounted for 4.9% of South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product in 2024, exceeding its 3.7% contribution in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, tourism outperformed traditional industries such as agriculture, utilities, and construction.

Tourism spending rebounded sharply, reaching a total of R779.2 billion. Domestic travellers contributed the bulk of this figure at R665.3 billion, while international visitors accounted for R113.9 billion.

“This once again reaffirms that domestic tourists are the bedrock of the sector in our country,” said Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille.

“They contribute significantly to the sector’s role in growing our economy and creating jobs, while international tourism continues to strengthen.”

The recovery is also evident in rising international arrivals.

South Africa recorded a milestone 10.5 million international visitors in 2025. Early figures for 2026 suggest continued momentum, with nearly 2 million arrivals recorded in the first two months of the year.

In January 2026, arrivals reached 1 133 533 – an increase of 12.4% compared to the same month in 2025. February followed with 864 534 arrivals, marking a 13.1% year-on-year rise.

“We expect further growth in international arrivals with the rollout of the Electronic Travellers Authorisation and our marketing strategy as we position South Africa as an affordable holiday and MICE destination of choice,” de Lille added.

The Minister attributed the sector’s strong performance to the implementation of the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan, a collaborative initiative between government and the private sector aimed at accelerating recovery and long-term growth.

With domestic demand holding firm and international interest steadily increasing, tourism is once again cementing its role as a cornerstone of South Africa’s economic recovery. – SAnews.gov.za

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By More Matshediso

Rishav Juglall is not just an entrepreneur; he is the man behind Rocky Brands, a business that has created 48 employment opportunities.

Based in Midrand, Rocky Brands manufactures and supplies high-quality cleaning products to retailers across South Africa.

In 2022, his business was named Pick n Pay Business Supplier of the Year. Furthermore, in 2023, his company secured R15.7 million in blended funding from the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).

The IDC, an entity of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic), drives job creation through industrialisation and supports black-, women- and youth-owned businesses to build a more inclusive economy.

“The funding helped us to buy more equipment and that enabled our production process to be mostly automated, saving us money and time, and contributing to the well-being of our employees because they work less overtime to meet deadlines,” explained Juglall.

The investment also allowed Rocky Brands to upskill staff to operate the new machinery and warehouse equipment, while bulk stock purchases have reduced input costs.

Juglall holds a qualification in marketing and economics from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and identified a gap in the market for affordable, quality cleaning products.

Inspired by his mother’s struggle to find reasonably priced products – including polish for her glass-top stove – he launched the business 15 years ago.

Its main manufacturing plant operates from Riversands in Midrand, Gauteng, supported by distribution depots in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, and Cape Town in the Western Cape.

Transforming the cleaning products sector

In 2011, when Juglall was just 22 years old, he had a vision of transforming the cleaning products sector in South Africa.

“At the time, I could only find an Australian import, and it was expensive. I then found Weiman products on Amazon, and the reviews were very impressive. I reached out to the brand and sealed a deal to supply South African retail stores with Weiman products, and that’s how I started my business,” he explained.

His company became the sole distributor for Weiman products in the country at the time, supplying to major retailers.

The company began manufacturing approximately 90% of its products in-house from 2016.

“The shift to local production not only supports the South African economy but also gives us greater control over the quality and sustainability of our offerings. We were one of the first black-owned businesses in South Africa to supply Woolworths with cleaning products from 2023,” he concluded proudly.

Today, Rocky Brands manufactures and delivers cleaning brands including Goo Gone, Orange, Wright’s, Weiman, Earth Friendly, Magic Eraser and Clean Start. The company supplies Pick n Pay, Woolworths, Spar, Checkers, Bidvest Prestige, Supercare and House & Home, among others.

For more information about Rocky Brands, visit www.rockybrands.co.za or call 010 006 0059. The IDC can be reached at www.idc.co.za.

*This article first appeared in Vukuzenzele

 

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By Sihle Manda

At just 25, Pfunzo Monica Chilate is steadily building a name for herself in Limpopo’s construction sector – one red mud brick at a time.

Chilate is the founder of Chilate Enterprises, a brick-making business based in Thohoyandou in Limpopo. Although she officially started the company in 2018, the roots of the enterprise run much deeper.

“I started the business in 2018 but my father was making the bricks before that… My dad used to make them at home, but not to sell; it was just to build our house.”

The idea to turn a family skill into a commercial venture came when Chilate noticed unused potential on the family farm.

Her father became her first mentor and remains a key pillar of support.

“My dad taught me the skill and I am currently working with him in the business. He has been helping me from the start,” she said.

While the business was launched in 2018, it only began gaining traction two years later.

“In 2020 we started to experience growth, which came after some of our clients showcased our work on Facebook. From that, I have received so many customers.”

Today, Chilate Enterprises employs 16 people who work in pairs. “Each team produces about 1 500 bricks a day.”

Despite the growth, 2026 has brought serious setbacks. Heavy rains and flooding in parts of Limpopo forced operations to shut down.

“Operations came to a standstill for about four weeks and we were unable to produce any bricks because of the rainfall. We had bricks that we had made but were not ready to be sold – those were all washed away.”

Provincial government preliminary assessments indicate that Limpopo may require close to R10 billion for comprehensive recovery efforts following the recent floods.

Chilate said the business only resumed sales at the end of February.

Transport remains another major hurdle. “I don’t have my own truck, so I often lose big clients that are looking to support us. I rely on other people and it becomes expensive, and the clients then pull out. It is a challenge we are hoping to resolve in time.”

Although she has applied for grant funding without success, she remains optimistic. “We are hopeful because in a month we are able to sell about 100 000 bricks, so the market is there.”

Her long-term vision extends far beyond bricks. “We want to build a one-stop shop for people building their houses – from bricks, cement, lintels and everything else,” she concluded. 

Contact Pfunzo Monica Chilate on 0826874984 for more information.

*This article first appeared in Vukuzenzele

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The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) had advised motorists of the full road closure on the N3 Northbound carriageway at Market Road Overpass in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.

The closure will be on Saturday, 11 April 2026, between 9 pm and 5 am to facilitate the installation of the soffit beams as part of the construction of the New Market Road overpass bridge. 

“Our traffic accommodation team, in collaboration with the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), has meticulously planned the closures and will actively manage and monitor them for the entire duration,” KwaZulu-Natal SANRAL Specialist Geometrics Engineer Jason Lowe said.

An additional alternative route for light vehicles is via the Ashburton Interchange northbound carriageway (NBC) off-ramp, which will be implemented based on traffic volumes and at the discretion of the RTI.

The closure will allow work to continue on the R1.91 billion N3 upgrade project between Gladys Manzi Road and the New England Road Interchange, aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving safety.

The Construction on Gladys Manzi Road (km 5.9) to New England Road Interchange (km 9.0) will upgrade the existing cross-section of the N3 from two northbound and three southbound lanes to four northbound and five southbound lanes per carriageway.

The full closure on the N3 Northbound will be implemented as follows:

• Date: 11 April 2026 from 9 pm until 5 am on the N3 Northbound.
• Date: 12 April 2026 (alternative date in case of inclement weather on the above) from 9 pm until 5 am on the N3 Northbound.
• Alternative route: Via Market Road offramp on temporary road to Market Road onramp and back onto N3.

“We understand that these road closures cause major disruption and have planned them to take place at times when the disruption is minimised. 

“Trucks and heavy vehicles are advised to try to delay trips over this period or find suitable staging areas to avoid major congestion. 

“Public transport operators are asked to ensure their drivers are aware of route closures and alternatives affecting their commuter routes,” Lowe said.

Light vehicle traffic, as well as emergency services and traffic management, are advised to make use of alternative routes. 

“SANRAL apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public’s patience during the ongoing major road enhancements.” –SAnews.gov.za

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his well wishes to South Africa’s Christian community during the Easter weekend. 

“For South Africa’s diverse Christian denominations and for Christians around the world, the Resurrection of Christ serves as a powerful call to personal renewal; and is an integral part of faith. This timeless message of retaining hope amidst uncertainty resonates with us all,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President will join congregants from the Zion Christian Church at their annual Easter celebrations in Moria, Limpopo this weekend.

“The Easter weekend was a welcome break and a time for reconnecting with family and friends.

“No matter where we may be this weekend, let us take to heart the Easter message by observing ubuntu, empathy and tolerance – in our communities, in social gatherings, on the roads and above all, in our homes,” said President Ramaphosa in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Portfolio Committee on Community Safety in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature has called on residents to prioritise safety during the Easter weekend.

The committee warned of increased risks on the roads over the holiday while also raising serious concern over the reported fatal shooting of a teenager by a police officer.

“As families travel and gather to observe this sacred period, we urge all road users to exercise heightened caution and responsibility,” the committee said in a statement, stressing the importance of obeying traffic laws and avoiding reckless behaviour.

The committee extended its wishes for a “safe, peaceful and blessed Easter weekend” to residents, noting that the holiday remains a time of reflection, renewal and spiritual significance for many Christians.

However, it cautioned that the period is often marked by a surge in traffic volumes, increasing the likelihood of accidents. 

Motorists were urged to refrain from drinking and driving and to comply fully with road regulations, as law enforcement agencies are expected to heighten visibility across the province.

Alongside its holiday message, the committee highlighted a troubling incident involving the alleged shooting death of a 16-year-old boy by a police officer. 

While details remain unclear, the committee described the matter as one of “utmost gravity”.

It welcomed the ongoing investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), emphasising the need for a thorough, transparent and swift process.

“The safety and security of all residents, particularly vulnerable groups such as children and women, remain a priority,” the committee said, adding that such incidents underscored the need for professionalism and accountability within law enforcement.

The committee reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the case closely, expressing confidence that appropriate action will be taken in line with the law.

As the province heads into the Easter period, the committee reiterated its appeal for unity, compassion and vigilance, urging residents to celebrate responsibly while prioritising the safety of all. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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