Kaya 959 Kaya Biz

Transnet Freight Opens Its Rail Network To Private Firms, What It Means For The Economy And Sector

Loading player...
South Africa’s freight rail network is finally opening up to private firms a move set to reshape the country’s logistics and trade landscape. But beyond the policy shift, why should ordinary South Africans care?

We speak to Mesela Nhlapo, CEO of the African Rail Industry Association, to unpack what this opening means for the economy, businesses, and everyday citizens.
26 Aug 2025 12PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

Other recent episodes

Hulamin swings to a loss, plans core refocus

Hulamin slipped into a full-year loss in 2025, as the aluminium producer faced price pressures and operational challenges due to an extended plant shutdown during the period. Hulamin’s CEO Mark Gounder joins us now to unpack the way forward for 2026.
24 Mar 3PM 16 min

New UJ Study Shows SA Can Dramatically Improve STEM Outcomes

A groundbreaking study by the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and Michigan State University has found that South African schools — including those in disadvantaged communities — can achieve substantially better STEM subject outcomes through a simple, scalable teaching model that blends teacher guidance with computer‑based simulations.
24 Mar 3PM 10 min

South Africa’s Two-Pot System Boosts Consumer Confidence

South Africa’s consumer sentiment edged higher for a second consecutive quarter, with the FNB/BER Consumer Confidence Index rising from –9 to –7 in the first quarter of 2026. FNB Chief Economist Mamello Matikinca‑Ngwenya joins us to unpack what this means for consumers, retailers, and the broader economy.
24 Mar 3PM 19 min

Sappi Pushes for 5% Tariff to Protect SA’s Last Newsprint Mill

South Africa’s only remaining newsprint producer, Sappi Southern Africa, has formally applied for a 5% customs duty on imported newsprint to protect the domestic industry from what it describes as a flood of low‑priced imports. Joining us for more is Graeme Wild, CEO, Sappi Southern Africa
24 Mar 3PM 14 min
All episodes