Eskom & market reform: President Cyril Ramaphosa used his weekly newsletter to back Eskom unbundling, arguing private-sector competition should bring cheaper power and better access—drawing a telecom parallel where opening the sector cut costs and expanded reach. Uber retreat: Uber shut down ride-hailing in Nigeria and Uganda after 12 years, citing tougher economics and shifting investment toward markets where it can scale driver earning opportunities—leaving it operating in Egypt, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa. Banking leadership: Lytania Johnson’s 25-year climb at FNB—from credit card finance to risk, ethics and eWallet leadership—ends with her reaching CEO, highlighting a career built on cross-functional moves. Energy finance: Yellow Door Energy and Nedbank CIB secured financial close on the 49MW Lion Thorn Solar Park, with long-term offtake deals aimed at boosting renewable supply and energy security. Online retail momentum: Online now makes up 10% of South Africa’s retail sales, with 2026 online turnover projected to hit R159bn as profitable operations from retailers like Pick n Pay and Sixty60 continue to grow. Crime & accountability: SAPS dismissed suspended Crime Intelligence deputy head Feroz Khan after a Labour Court setback, reinforcing “no member above the law” messaging. Local governance debate: A push for “collaborative governance” is back in focus ahead of municipal elections, with critics saying coordination and participation still fall short of improving child development outcomes. Crime crackdown: Operation Shanela II in North West netted 778 arrests, including suspects for murder, rape and illegal mining, alongside major seizures. Sports admin: Safa’s presidential race tightens with 10 days to go, as Danny Jordaan faces businessman Sandile Zungu in Johannesburg on 12 September. International business: PwC forecasts AI infrastructure investment could reach $31.6tn by 2050, with data-centre capex rising sharply and power supply remaining the key constraint. Wine industry win: Boplaas and Durbanville Hills both scored big in Tim Atkin’s latest South Africa reports, underlining continued strength in SA fortified and cool-climate wines.