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South Africa's president Cyril Ramaphosa highlighting the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act as a game-changer in tackling load shedding and ensuring long-term energy security. (Image source: Africa Energy Chamber)

Energy

South Africa is entering a new chapter of energy sector reform, with President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighting the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act as a game-changer in tackling load shedding and ensuring long-term energy security

In his 2025 State of the Nation Address, he stressed the Act’s significance in restructuring the electricity market by increasing private sector participation and fostering competition in power generation.

Effective from 1 January 2025, the Act lays the groundwork for a more open electricity market, allowing multiple entities to generate and sell power. This represents a major departure from Eskom’s traditional monopoly, creating opportunities for independent power producers to enhance efficiency and accelerate energy diversification. Ramaphosa has underlined that this shift will not only boost generation capacity but also attract private sector investment into vital infrastructure, particularly transmission networks that have suffered from underinvestment and outdated technology.

Load shedding over?

South Africa’s Energy Action Plan, introduced to address the electricity crisis, has already contributed to a significant reduction in load shedding over the past year. Investments in transmission infrastructure are advancing to accommodate new renewable energy projects, while efforts to improve Eskom’s coal plant operations have intensified, with maintenance initiatives extending the life of key power stations.

Additionally, over 5,000MW of renewable capacity has been secured through the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program, with upcoming solar and wind projects set to expand supply. JUWI recently committed US$320mn to construct three solar projects with a combined capacity of 340MW in 2025, while Eskom has restored the second unit of the Koeberg nuclear power plant. Large-scale battery storage solutions are being deployed to improve grid stability—AMEA Power is developing the Gainfar and Boitekong projects, each with a capacity of 300 MW—while gas-to-power solutions are being explored to provide flexible backup capacity.

As the energy market undergoes this transformation, the upcoming Africa Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 conference will be a pivotal event for engaging investors, policymakers, and industry leaders. Set to take place in Cape Town from September 29 to October 3, AEW will focus on attracting private investment in energy infrastructure, with an emphasis on renewables, natural gas, and critical transmission projects.

With South Africa aiming to secure US$13bn in climate finance for its Just Energy Transition, AEW will also facilitate discussions on balancing decarbonisation with energy security and economic growth. Beyond domestic implications, an improved electricity infrastructure could enhance South Africa’s ability to export power to neighbouring nations, reinforcing its role as a regional energy leader. As the country moves toward a more sustainable and investment-friendly energy landscape, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether it can finally leave load shedding behind.

Also read about JUWI's construction plan here

A50 underscores the company’s commitment to meeting evolving customer needs by providing more choices and improved operational capabilities. (Image source: Volvo)

Construction

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has announced a comprehensive update to its globally recognised articulated hauler lineup, marking the most extensive product portfolio renewal in decades

The revamped range now includes models from A25 to A60, featuring significant technological advancements aimed at improving efficiency, safety, and adaptability for future drivetrain developments. A notable addition to the lineup is the all-new A50 model, which expands customer options in the demanding hauler segment.

A new range from A25 to A60

A pioneer in the articulated hauler industry since introducing ‘Gravel Charlie’ in 1966, Volvo CE is rolling out its latest lineup in a phased global release throughout 2025. This upgrade represents a significant technological leap, incorporating a new electronic system and an in-house developed transmission that delivers fuel efficiency improvements of up to 15%, depending on the model and application. Designed with adaptability in mind, the new haulers are constructed to integrate seamlessly with future drivetrains.

Introducing the A50 model

One of the most exciting highlights of the launch is the debut of the A50 model, which enhances Volvo CE’s offering in the hauler segment. Available in selected markets, the A50 underscores the company’s commitment to meeting evolving customer needs by providing more choices and improved operational capabilities. The updated haulers are engineered to lower the total cost of ownership while ensuring maximum safety and productivity, especially when combined with Volvo CE’s digital solutions such as Haul Assist with onboard weighing.

Melker Jernberg, president of Volvo CE, emphasised the company’s legacy of innovation,“For nearly 60 years we have been leading the way with our range of articulated haulers and now with today’s launch of a new range of outstanding products, including one completely new model, we prove that there are no limits to our capacity for innovation. Our customers know to expect a first-class operation when they get into one of our haulers, but that experience has just got even better with a host of cutting-edge features designed with our customers in mind.”

A circular approach to sustainability

The new range is designed to be among the most fuel-efficient hauling solutions on the market, incorporating sustainability-focused elements such as low-carbon emission steel made from recycled materials. This steel, produced using fossil-free electricity and biogas, is being integrated into the serial production of haulers at Volvo CE’s Braås site. Given that steel is a major component in Volvo CE’s products and is traditionally a significant source of carbon emissions, this material circularity initiative aligns with the company’s broader sustainability strategy to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.

A step towards the future

With over 35% of its total range renewed in the past 12 months, Volvo CE is taking a decisive step towards shaping the future of construction equipment. This latest product overhaul continues the company’s long-standing tradition of setting industry benchmarks for innovation and operational excellence, just as it did in 1966. By integrating cutting-edge features and sustainable manufacturing practices, Volvo CE reinforces its leadership in the articulated hauler segment and its commitment to meeting the challenges of tomorrow’s construction industry.

Also read: Volvo CE adopts low-carbon steel

Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s senior executive vice-president at Mining Indaba 2025. (Image source: Afreximbank Group)

Mining

At the African Mining Indaba 2025 in Cape Town, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) urged African nations to take control of their natural resources, create employment opportunities, and establish industries that foster long-term prosperity

Addressing an audience of African leaders, policymakers, mining executives, and global stakeholders, the bank emphasised the need for strategic transformation in the continent’s mining sector.

Speaking at the ministerial symposium, Denys Denya, Afreximbank’s senior executive vice-president, underscored that Africa stood at a pivotal moment. He warned that the continent must choose between continuing to export its raw materials with minimal returns or implementing decisive measures to take ownership of its resources.

“While the global mining industry generated approximately US$1.7 trillion in revenue in 2023, Africa’s share of this wealth remains disproportionately low. Our continent extracts the raw materials that power the world’s industries, yet it is estimated that we retain as little as between 4% and 20% of the total value of our minerals due to minimal local processing and limited downstream development. The result? Lost economic opportunities, exposure to volatile commodity cycles and a persistent reliance on external markets for refined products derived from our own resources,” stated Denya.

“The choice is ours. The time to act is now. Let us work together: governments, financial institutions, investors, and industry players to build an Africa where mining is not just about extraction but about transformation, innovation and wealth creation,” remarked Denya.

Stronger collaboration

He highlighted that Africa possesses the necessary resources, market potential, and policy frameworks to evolve from a raw materials exporter into a globally competitive industrial powerhouse. However, he stressed that achieving this vision requires decisive action from all stakeholders. “Policymakers must implement clear, enforceable regulations that mandate local value addition and create investment-friendly environments. Private sector investors must step up with capital and technology to develop processing, refining, and manufacturing facilities.”

Denya called for a fundamental shift in Africa’s approach to mining, advocating for investment in refining, smelting, and advanced manufacturing rather than just extraction. “We must move beyond extraction and invest in refining, smelting and advanced manufacturing. African nations must increase local processing capacity for minerals such as bauxite, lithium, cobalt and iron ore,” Denya continued. 

He also stressed the importance of regional cooperation, noting that no single country can develop a complete mining value chain in isolation. He pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a key mechanism for strengthening intra-African mineral value chains and fostering cross-border collaboration. Additionally, he emphasised the need for capital investment in mining-related infrastructure, technology transfer, and workforce development.

“Our mining policies must also prioritise environmental, social and governance standards, ensuring that mining benefits communities rather than displacing them,” he added. He argued that such an approach would generate millions of skilled jobs for Africa’s youth, reduce dependence on volatile international markets, and boost intra-African trade.

Reaffirming Afreximbank’s commitment to Africa’s mining sector, Denya revealed that the bank had approved over US$1bn in financing for mining and mineral sector projects over the past three years. This includes funding for a bauxite processing plant in Guinea, support for the expansion of a manganese processing plant in Gabon, and working capital financing for a diamond company in Botswana.

Among other significant initiatives, Afreximbank is backing a petrochemical fertiliser plant in Angola, a titanium dioxide pigment plant in South Africa, and a feasibility study for a limestone processing plant in Malawi.

Denya also highlighted the role of the US$10bn AfCFTA Adjustment Fund, managed by Afreximbank’s investment arm, FEDA, in supporting businesses and countries adapting to the new trade regime. He noted that the bank’s efforts to harmonize standards and implement the Africa Collaborative Transit Guarantee Scheme would ease cross-border movement of minerals and mining equipment, addressing logistical challenges.

Additionally, Afreximbank is leveraging digital solutions such as the Africa Trade Gateway and the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System to enhance market access and streamline transactions. These tools aim to maximise Africa’s mineral wealth for industrialisation, value addition, and economic resilience.

Denya also underscored Afreximbank’s efforts to overcome infrastructure limitations that impede industrial growth. He highlighted the bank’s collaboration with development partners in expanding industrial parks and special economic zones (SEZs).

One of the most groundbreaking initiatives under this framework is the DRC/Zambia Electric Vehicle Battery Manufacturing Special Economic Zones. This project is positioning Africa as a key player in the global energy transition by establishing battery precursor SEZs, enhancing the two nations’ competitiveness in the battery electric vehicle value chain.

Also read: Mining giants look to renewable diesel feedstock 

TAAG Angola Airlines enhances fleet with Boeing 787-9, improving long-haul operations across Africa. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Logistics

Boeing has delivered the first of four 787 Dreamliner aircraft to TAAG Angola Airlines, marking the introduction of the airline’s new livery

The 787-9, along with upcoming deliveries of the fuel-efficient widebody jets, will support the airline's fleet modernization and long-haul expansion, enhancing Angola's connectivity for both travelers and trade with the industry's most advanced commercial aircraft.

The first 787 Dreamliner, leased from AerCap, arrived in Luanda ahead of Angola’s Liberation Day on February 4, coinciding with nearly 50 years since TAAG Angola received its inaugural Boeing 737-200.

“The delivery of the 787-9 is a pivotal step in our strategy to modernize TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet,” said Nelson Pedro Rodrigues de Oliveira, CEO of TAAG Angola Airlines. “This airplane brings the efficiency and versatility we need to meet growing market demands, replace our ageing widebody fleet, and deliver a world-class experience to our passengers.”

Currently, TAAG Angola Airlines operates five 777-300ERs, three 777-200ERs, and seven Next-Generation 737s, serving 12 destinations across Africa, Europe, South America, and China. The addition of the 787 Dreamliner will enable the airline to expand its long-haul operations, with plans to launch new routes to Europe and explore opportunities in Asia and North America.

“The 787 Dreamliner will complement TAAG Angola Airlines’ fleet of Boeing 737 and 777 jets, as we continue to support the airline in its mission to connect people and places across the globe,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, vice president of Boeing Commercial Sales for Africa. “Our 50-year relationship with TAAG Angola Airlines has been built on trust and shared goals, and we look forward to many more years of successful collaboration and innovation together.”

TAAG Angola Airlines ordered the 787 Dreamliner in 2023 as a cornerstone of its modernisation strategy. Known for its cutting-edge technologies, fuel efficiency, and superior passenger experience, the 787 Dreamliner achieves up to 25% reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to the aircraft it replaces.

In tandem with the delivery of its first 787 Dreamliner, TAAG Angola Airlines is collaborating with Boeing to purchase CO2 emissions reductions related to blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) via a book-and-claim process. Distributors will ensure that the SAF, available through these purchased certificates, reaches nearby airports for use by airlines and other carriers.

Boeing's Commercial Market Outlook estimates that Africa will require 1,170 new airplanes over the next 20 years. Boeing has been the backbone of Africa’s commercial aviation fleet for over 75 years, with more than 60 airlines operating nearly 500 Boeing aircraft across the continent, representing almost 70% of the regional airplane market.

In another news read: Lobito Atlantic Railway strengthens transport capacity

South Africa's DMA on the acquisition trail. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Finance

South Africa-headquartered DMA has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Saxo Australia from Saxo Bank, a leading online trading and investment specialist

DMA is a global leader in all-in-one software solutions for financial advisers and wealth managers.

As part of the acquisition and partnership, DMA will leverage Saxo Bank's platform and trading technology for clients for the Australian market.

The Johannesburg-based group will assume 80.1% ownership of Saxo's Australian business, subject to regulatory approval, with Saxo Bank retaining 19.9%.

With the transaction, Saxo's award-winning platforms, product range, competitive prices and interest rates will be complemented and strengthened by DMA's business-to-business knowhow, world-class adviser offering and track record of growth.

“We believe DMA’s platform offering will bring tangible benefits to Australian financial advisers and wealth managers, while the business will continue to focus on delivering high-touch, high-quality service for self-directed retail clients," said DMA's CEO, Richard North.

"It'll be the best of Saxo and the best of DMA and we think that adds up to the marketplace's best choice for investors and partners across the entire lifecycle.”

This transition represents an expansion of an existing partnership between DMA and Saxo in South Africa, the Netherlands and the UK.

In these regions, DMA already leverages Saxo's capabilities, outsourcing the brokerage business model, managing all aspects of trade orders, execution, settlement and post-trade operations.

Saxo's open architecture means that DMA can build additional interfaces, digital services and trading experiences for Australian clients.

Currently, more than 160 wealth managers and adviser networks across Africa, Europe, and the United Kingdom use DMA to access global markets.

Specifically for the Australian market, Saxo's banking as a service (BaaS) solutions paired with DMA's software solutions will enable Australian institutional partners, such as financial advisers and asset and fund managers, to connect front, middle, and back-office functions under one solution.

Saxo will deliver the best-in-class digital investing and trading platforms, and will also provide the back-office infrastructure, from clearing and settlement to execution and custody.

This will support financial services firms to reduce back-office cost and complexity and enhance client-facing services.

The new business will retain Saxo Australia's staff, led by its CEO, Adam Smith, while looking to bolster its Australia-based workforce to ensure clients get the best investing and trading experience.

The name and brand of the new business will be determined after a transitional period, with the business to continue operating as Saxo Australia in the meantime.

The sale comes after Saxo Bank in June 2024 announced a review of strategic opportunities in the Asia-Pacific, seeking to accelerate its growth in the region.

"We will ensure a smooth transition and aim to enhance the offerings and services provided,” said Smith. “The clients of Saxo Australia will notice absolutely no disruption in service, product range, or platform access. We are very pleased to partner up with DMA and believe that this will be a game changer for Australian clients.”

ArcelorMittal indicated a weak domestic market for Long steel products. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Manufacturing

ArcelorMittal has taken the decision to wind down its Longs Business in light of sustained challenges

According to the company, issues around weak economy growth, high logistics and energy costs and an influx of low-cost steel imports (particularly from China) have left the Longs Business unsustainable. As a result, despite long consultations with government and stakeholders to find viable solutions to maintain the business, the decision was made to transition the Longs Business into care and maintenance. As such, steel production is anticipated to cease by late January 2025 with the remaining production processes to be wound down in Q1 2025.

“It is with deep regret that we must take this difficult decision,” said CEO Kobus Verster. “Over the past year, our employees and dedicated management team have shown remarkable commitment and resilience in the face of serious uncertainty. Unfortunately, despite everyone's best efforts, including significant engagement with stakeholders, the structural challenges in the Longs Business were not resolved. While this outcome is deeply disappointing, especially given the economic challenges facing South Africa, we remain focused on securing a sustainable future for the remaining operations.”

The company has estimated that approximately 3,500 direct and indirect jobs will be affected by this change with a broader economic effect on induced jobs.

Despite this setback, Verster made clear the company’s commitment to long-term sustainability and competitiveness, with a focus on improving the Flats Business. ArcelorMittal South Africa will focus on re-establishing itself as a champion of innovative, export-driven, steel-based industrialisation for South Africa, sub-Saharan Africa, and other key geographies.

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