When selling your home, it can be tempting to “test the market” by listing at a higher price than what your property is realistically worth. Many sellers believe they can always lower the price later if needed. But in today’s property market, overpricing often does more harm than good. First Impressions Matter The first two weeks after a property is listed are the most important. This is when your home receives the highest level of attention from buyers, agents, and online property platforms. Serious buyers are constantly watching for new listings, and a fresh property naturally creates excitement and urgency. If the asking price is too high from the start, buyers may simply scroll past your listing without giving it a second look. What Happens When a Property Sits Too Long? When a home remains on the market for an extended period, buyers begin to wonder why it hasn’t sold. They may assume: There’s something wrong with the property The seller is unrealistic The home isn’t worth the asking price As a result, the listing becomes “stale.” Even after a price reduction, buyers often approach with caution and may submit lower offers than they would have initially. Ironically, homes that start overpriced often end up selling for less than they could have if they were priced correctly from day one. The Power of Correct Pricing A well-priced property attracts: More buyer interest More viewings Stronger offers Faster sales In competitive markets, the right pricing strategy can even lead to multiple offers, driving the final selling price higher. Pricing your property accurately doesn’t mean underselling it — it means positioning it strategically to attract serious buyers and maximise value. Trust the Market, Not Emotion Many homeowners attach emotional value to their property because of memories, renovations, or personal investment. While understandable, buyers focus on market value, location, condition, and comparable sales in the area. Working with an experienced property professional helps ensure your home is priced according to current market trends and buyer demand. Final Thoughts The goal when selling a property isn’t simply to list it — it’s to sell it successfully. Avoiding the “testing the market” trap can save you time, stress, and ultimately money. A realistic price from the beginning creates momentum, attracts the right buyers, and gives your property the best chance of achieving a successful sale. Contact Ingwe Property Company SA 📧 Email: reception@ingwe.co.za📞 Tel: 031 701 9898📍 Address: 34 Glenugie Road, Pinetown, Durban The “Testing the Market” Trap: Why Overpricing Your Home Can Cost You

Irshaad Soomar, Partner, EY How Assurance and Trust Are Enabling Better Decision-making In a Complex Business Environment KwaZulu Natal remains one of South Africa’s most strategically important provinces. As home to major ports, manufacturing and logistics hubs, regional headquarters of multinational groups, listed entities, regulated institutions and privately held enterprises, the province plays a critical role in national economic activity and employment. Yet KZN businesses are operating in a period of sustained complexity. Infrastructure constraints, energy instability, logistics disruption, regulatory scrutiny and market volatility have become enduring features of the operating environment. Against this backdrop, confidence – in financial information, governance structures and leadership decisions – has emerged as a defining business priority. Building and sustaining that confidence is where assurance, governance and highquality reporting play an indispensable role. A Diverse Economy, Facing Common Pressures KZN’s economic landscape is marked by diversity. Large, listed groups operate alongside multinational subsidiaries, export focused manufacturers, regulated entities and privately held businesses deeply embedded in local value chains. Despite differences in size and structure, organisations across the province face similar challenges: ■ Increased expectations from regulators, investors, lenders and customers ■ Heightened accountability for boards and audit committees ■ Greater scrutiny of going concern, liquidity and resilience ■ Pressure on management to make decisions with limited margin for error In this environment, confidence is not created through ambition alone. It is built through credible information, disciplined governance and independent assurance. Assurance As A Strategic Enabler, Not A Compliance Exercise Across sectors, there has been a clear shift in how assurance is perceived. No longer viewed merely as a statutory requirement, highquality audits and strong control environments are increasingly seen as strategic enablers. For boards and audit committees, assurance underpins oversight and accountability. For executives, it provides a reliable foundation for capital allocation, transformation initiatives and risk management. For external stakeholders – including investors, banks, regulators and customers – it is often the basis on which trust is established. EY’s assurance practice in KwaZulu-Natal serves a broad spectrum of organisations, including listed entities, multinational groups with regional operations, public interest and regulated institutions, and private companies. This breadth provides deep insight into emerging risks, governance expectations and regulatory developments, allowing lessons learned in one part of the market to inform best practice across others. Governance And Transparency In A Volatile Environment Volatility has sharpened the focus on governance quality. Boards are being challenged not only on performance, but on preparedness – how well risks are identified, assessed and managed, and how transparently they are communicated. Robust internal controls, well considered accounting judgements, and clear disclosures are central to this conversation. Areas such as going concern assessments, impairment, provisions, liquidity management and revenue recognition require not only technical rigour, but sound judgement and documentation. EY works closely with boards, audit committees and management teams to strengthen these foundations – supporting organisations to move beyond minimum compliance towards governance frameworks that are proportionate, practical and effective. Enabling Growth, Capital Decisions And Transformation While resilience is a priority, growth and transformation remain firmly on the agenda. Many KZN organisations are reassessing operating models, investing in technology, restructuring portfolios or exploring acquisitions and partnerships. In all these activities, assurance and governance play a critical enabling role. Reliable financial information, strong controls and transparent reporting enhance an organisation’s ability to access capital, engage with partners and execute transactions with confidence. EY supports organisations across these journeys through integrated capabilities – linking assurance insights with strategy, tax, transactions and technology – while maintaining the independence and objectivity that underpin trust. Supporting Long-term Sustainability And Continuity Across the provincial economy, long-term sustainability has become a central concern. For some organisations, this involves navigating leadership changes and succession at board or management level. For others, it requires responding to evolving regulatory expectations, climate related risks or changing stakeholder demands. The common thread is the need for clear, forward looking judgement supported by credible information. Assurance plays a vital role in supporting this – not only by validating historical performance, but by enhancing the quality of information used for future decision making. A Trusted Presence In KwaZulu-Natal What distinguishes EY’s role in KZN is its combination of local presence and global capability. Teams based in the region work closely with clients across sectors, supported by access to global expertise, industry insight and leading audit and assurance methodologies. This enables EY to serve as a trusted advisor across the broader KZN business ecosystem – helping organisations navigate complexity, meet rising expectations and build confidence in an increasingly demanding environment. As KwaZulu-Natal continues to adapt and reposition itself for future growth, the importance of strong institutions, transparent governance and credible assurance will only increase. EY remains committed to supporting the organisations that shape the KZN economy – strengthening trust, enabling better decisions and contributing to longterm resilience across the region. EY continues to work alongside businesses and institutions in KwaZulu-Natal, bringing global standards and local understanding to support sustainable value creation. EY remains committed to supporting the organisations that shape the KZN economy – strengthening trust, enabling better decisions and contributing to longterm resilience across the region. T: +27 (0)31 576 8000 W: www.ey.com/en_za/locations/south-africa

By: Richards Bay Minerals, 08 May 2026. Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) was honoured to host President Cyril Ramaphosa during his visit to the Richards Bay region yesterday, marking his first official visit to our operations. As RBM celebrates its 50th anniversary, the visit provided a pivotal moment to reflect on its historical impact in the region, its role as a key contributor to the South African economy, and the company's future trajectory. RBM hosts President Ramaphosa during landmark visit as company marks 50 years As one of the largest mineral sands operations globally, RBM occupies a significant position within both the South African mining sector and international supply chains. During the visit, the President toured RBM’s operations, including its largest mining pond and state-of-the-art smelter control room, and engaged directly with employees and union representatives. The cornerstone of this success has been our enduring partnership with host communities and the government. This collaborative foundation enables the forward-looking approach seen in our latest developments: • The approval of the Zulti South project represents a major investment in the long-term sustainability of our operations. • Through initiatives like the recently commissioned Bolobedu solar power project, we are integrating renewable energy to reduce emissions and enhance energy resilience. Ultimately, this visit underscored the vital importance of continued collaboration between government, industry and communities in driving economic growth and long-term development in South Africa. About Richards Bay Minerals Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) is one of the world’s leading mineral sands producers and a major South African exporter. Established in 1976, RBM is celebrating 50 years of partnership, progress and possibility in 2026. The company mines and beneficiates heavy mineral sands and produces materials including titanium dioxide feedstock, zircon and high purity iron. RBM recently approved the Zulti South project, a major investment that will help sustain operations and economic contribution into the future. RBM operates in KwaZulu-Natal and is committed to safe, responsible, and sustainable mining that creates long-term value for employees, host communities, and South Africa. For media inquiries, please contact: Richards Bay Minerals - Nelisiwe Masina M: +27 60 546 5040 E: Nelisiwe.Masina@riotinto.com

KwaZulu-Natal business has entered a season where marketing can no longer be judged by how busy it looks. It must be judged by how much revenue it helps create. In a province that contributes about 16% of South Africa’s GDP and is anchored by Durban and Richards Bay – which together handle almost 60% of the country’s cargo tonnage – speed, movement and commercial efficiency are the economy. Peter Drucker’s line lands hard today, “Marketing and innovation produce results; all the rest are costs.” In 2026, the challenge is not whether marketing can be creative. It is whether it can convert. Marketers have been rewarded for producing impressions, views and likes while the CFOs writing the cheques wonder why those metrics never translate into rand. South Africa already has the digital audience: DataReportal’s Digital 2025 report counts 50.8 million internet users, 26.7 million social media identities and 15 million LinkedIn members. Visibility is no longer the problem. Conversion is. The Leaky Funnel Is Haemorrhaging Your Budget Let us start with the blood on the floor. MarketingSherpa reports that roughly 79% of marketing leads never convert to sales, primarily because they are never properly nurtured. The Harvard Business Review “Lead Response Management” study found that firms contacting a lead within five minutes are up to 100 times more likely to qualify it than those who wait 30 minutes. Most South African SMEs respond in hours, days, or not at all. Every unanswered website form, every WhatsApp that sits untouched, every quote request that receives a reply tomorrow instead of now is budget leaking out of the business. Gartner’s 2025 CMO Spend Survey shows martech (your marketing tech stack, comprising all those platforms and software solutions you use for your marketing) has slumped to 22% of the marketing budget, with only 49% of those tools actively used. We spend millions on platforms we do not open, chasing leads we do not answer. That is the leak. In a province where relationships matter and service industries dominate everything from logistics to tourism to professional services, slow follow-up is not a small Terry Flack, Business Success Leader, Cannect Digital operational issue. It is a silent profit killer. “Views, likes and impressions may tell you that someone noticed you, but they do not tell you whether anyone bought.” From TOFU Likes To BOFU Revenue The top of the funnel is cheap; the bottom is where the profit lives. Moving prospects from awareness to purchase used to require an army of SDRs, a CRM priesthood and a content factory. Today it requires an agentic ecosystem – autonomous and semi-autonomous AI agents that qualify, nurture, book, quote and hand over to a human only at the moment of maximum leverage. The numbers are no longer marginal. Zigment’s 2026 analysis found that 62% of leaders expect 100%+ ROI from agentic AI, with organisations projecting an average return of 171%. Separate 2026 benchmarks from Thunderbit and SQ Magazine show marketing automation delivering $5.44 back for every $1 spent – a 544% ROI – and automated nurturing producing 77% higher conversion rates. These are the difference between survival and scale. The point is not to replace your team. It is to make sure no serious lead dies waiting for a human being to catch up. Autonomous actions handle instant acknowledgements, routing, lead scoring and follow up triggers. Semi-autonomous actions draft replies, nurtures and proposals. Humans do what humans do best: discovery, negotiation and closing. What This Looks Like On The Ground In KZN For KZN businesses, this is intensely practical. A Durban logistics business can capture a request for quotation (RFQ), score the lead, route it and send an immediate, relevant response before a competitor has even opened their inbox. A Midlands hospitality brand can turn abandoned booking intent into confirmed reservations with timed nudges and personalised offers. An Umhlanga advisory firm can qualify enquiries, book consultations and keep prospects warm automatically until a decision-maker is ready to engage. KZN already offers a local proof point. KZN Top Business reports that its Nexus platform connects visibility, leads, data and partnerships in one ecosystem – and cites a local retailer that increased sales by 20% in six months without extra ad spend. The win is a tighter commercial system that turns attention into measurable business outcomes. AI Is Replacing The Martech Stack Here is where it gets practical for the CFO. Flaiz’s 2026 martech pricing analysis shows a typical mid-market stack – Salesforce Sales Cloud, HubSpot or Marketo, a customer data platform (CDP), an analytics suite and 10 to 15 point solutions – carrying a true annual cost of US$2 million to US$8 million once integration, training and headcount are included. For a KZN business, that is simply non-viable. At our performance marketing agency, Cannect Digital, we have been replacing large chunks of that stack with AI agents. In Claude’s environment – Claude Code for developers and Cowork for non technical operators – you can spin up a plugin that watches a Gmail inbox, qualifies inbound enquiries against your ideal customer profile, drafts a first response in your own tone of voice, books a meeting, updates the customer relationship management (CRM) and pings Slack or Teams the moment a hot lead needs human eyes. The real promise of AI in marketing is not more content. It is more movement through the funnel. A three-person marketing team we recently worked with retired four Software as a Service(SaaS) subscriptions and replaced them with a single Cowork plugin that handles lead routing, proposal drafting and weekly reporting. Payback: 11 days. For another client, we developed an App for 10% of traditional App development costs and delivered it not in months, but weeks. That changes the game for business where the implementation of bespoke Apps across a company ensures better engagement, more fluid process flows and big data feedback. At the push of a button. One Driving Goal – Sales Simplification is the strategy. Every workflow, agent and dashboard should answer a single question: does this move a prospect closer to a signature? If the honest answer is no, switch it off. Faster first response, clearer next steps, intelligent routing and 24/7 engagement do not just lift conversion – they compress the cash-collection cycle, which is the metric your CFO actually cares about. CMOs And CFOs Must Be Best Friends This is the cultural shift. McKinsey’s 2024 report, The CMO’s Comeback, found that companies with strong CFO CMO alignment unlock 20 to 40% more financial growth, and Analytic Partners’ ROI Genome data attributes roughly 40% of annual business growth to marketing. Yet only 35% of CMOs track revenue as a top metric, versus 70% of CEOs. Deloitte’s 2025 CMO Survey confirms it: proving marketing’s value is still the top challenge for CMOs. Marketing as a cost centre belongs in the same museum as the fax machine. When the CMO walks into the monthly finance review with a live dashboard of pipeline generated, cost per qualified lead, speed-to-first response and closed-won revenue – all powered by agents that cost less than a junior salary – the conversation changes. Budget stops being defended; it starts being invested. “The businesses that will win will be the ones that use AI not to create more noise, but to create more movement and growth momentum.” The KZN Bottom Line The future belongs to businesses that build faster paths to purchase. For KZN companies, that means fewer leaks, fewer delays, fewer disconnected tools and far more commercial accountability. No sales. No business. The businesses that win will use AI not to create more noise, but to create more movement: faster response, better qualification, clearer follow-up and stronger conversion. And more money in the bank. Marketing must be measured in Rands, not reach, where the CMO and CFO finally share the same scoreboard. Meaningful, efficient, profitable growth. Terry Flack | Business Success Leader of Cannect Digital M: +27 (0)84 555 0005 T: 086 111 2939 (SA Sharecall Only) E: Terry@cannectdigital.com W: www.cannectdigital.com

The O.R. Tambo Inland Education District in the Eastern Cape recently embarked on an impactful educational tour to Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone, offering learners and educators an enriching opportunity to explore innovation, economic development, and future career possibilities in a dynamic industrial environment. The visit formed part of the district’s ongoing commitment to empowering learners through experiential education and practical exposure beyond the classroom. As one of South Africa’s leading economic hubs, Dube TradePort provided learners with firsthand insight into the operations of a world-class Special Economic Zone and the important role it plays in driving trade, logistics, agriculture, technology, and business growth. Throughout the tour, learners were introduced to various sectors operating within the precinct, including aviation-linked logistics, agribusiness, manufacturing, and digital innovation. Industry professionals shared valuable knowledge about career pathways, workplace expectations, and the growing demand for skills in science, technology, engineering, business, and entrepreneurship. The experience encouraged learners to think critically about their future aspirations while exposing them to industries that contribute significantly to South Africa’s economic transformation. Many learners expressed excitement about seeing how classroom subjects such as mathematics, science, accounting, and technology are applied in real working environments. Educators accompanying the group emphasized the importance of educational excursions in motivating learners and broadening their understanding of opportunities available beyond their communities. The tour not only strengthened academic inspiration but also highlighted the importance of adaptability, innovation, and lifelong learning in today’s rapidly evolving world. Representatives from Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone also highlighted the value of partnerships between educational institutions and industry stakeholders in building a skilled and future-ready workforce. By creating opportunities for learners to engage directly with professionals and businesses, initiatives such as these contribute meaningfully to youth empowerment and sustainable development. The educational tour stands as a reflection of the O.R. Tambo Inland Education District’s dedication to nurturing informed, ambitious, and capable young leaders who are prepared to contribute positively to the economy and society. Through experiences that connect education with industry, learners are inspired to dream bigger, pursue excellence, and unlock their full potential. Eastern Cape Educational Tour Visits Dube TradePort for Empowered Learning and Skills Development

President Cyril Ramaphosa visited South32 Hillside Aluminium in Richards Bay to commemorate the company’s 30th anniversary of aluminium production in South Africa. The visit highlighted the important role Hillside Aluminium continues to play in the country’s industrial development, economic growth, and job creation. As the largest aluminium smelter in the southern hemisphere and the only primary aluminium producer in South Africa, Hillside Aluminium has become a cornerstone of the nation’s manufacturing and export sectors. During the celebration, President Ramaphosa praised the company’s long-standing contribution to the South African economy and its commitment to sustainable industrial growth. The event also underscored the strategic importance of the aluminium industry in supporting infrastructure development, manufacturing, and international trade. Over the past decade, Hillside Aluminium has contributed approximately R35 billion to South Africa’s gross domestic product while supporting an estimated 29 000 jobs across the aluminium value chain. The smelter produces high-quality aluminium for both domestic use and export markets, helping position South Africa as a key player in the global aluminium industry. The anniversary celebration served as a reflection on three decades of operational excellence, innovation, and partnership between industry and government. It also reaffirmed the company’s ongoing commitment to economic transformation, skills development, and community upliftment in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. South32 Hillside Aluminium remains a vital contributor to South Africa’s industrial future, continuing to drive investment, employment, and economic opportunity for thousands of South Africans. President Cyril Ramaphosa Celebrates 30 Years of Aluminium Production at South32 Hillside Aluminium

Trust remains the defining currency of modern business. In a competitive and fast-moving marketplace, it is often the single factor that separates brands that endure from those that fade. The KZN Top Business Awards, brought to you by Standard Bank and Women of Africa Group, and supported by East Coast Radio, have emerged as a powerful platform for building that trust, not only between businesses and their customers, but across the broader KwaZulu Natal business community. As consumers become increasingly discerning, expectations have evolved. Today’s customers seek authenticity, transparency and meaningful connection. They want to understand who they are engaging with, what those businesses stand for, and whether their values align. The KZN Top Business Awards respond directly to this shift by placing people, purpose and credibility at the forefront. For businesses aiming to grow, differentiate themselves and strengthen stakeholder relationships, entering the awards is not merely an opportunity, but a strategic business decision. Carl Henriksen, Head of Commercial Banking (KwaZulu-Natal) at Business and Commercial Banking, Standard Bank South Africa, adds, “At Standard Bank, we believe trust is the cornerstone of sustainable business growth. The KZN Top Business Awards embody this principle by recognising organisations that not only deliver results but also demonstrate integrity, purpose and accountability. Through platforms like these, we aim to celebrate businesses that keep growing while building meaningful connections with their stakeholders and communities.” Often referred to as the ‘Oscars of business in KZN’, the awards go beyond recognition. They shine a spotlight on the people behind the brands, the leaders, innovators and teams who drive success. This human-centric approach transforms how businesses present themselves, shifting toward meaningful storytelling where trust is built. Adv Pria Hassan, CEO of the Women of Africa Group, notes: “In a region rich with entrepreneurial spirit and innovation, trust remains the foundation of sustainable success. The KZN Top Business Awards provide a platform to earn it, showcase it, and build upon it.” Grant Adlam, CEO of the KZN Top Business Awards, adds: “Of note, participants benefit from enhanced visibility. Through our strong digital public relations and media campaign, the awards provide exposure that extends well beyond traditional advertising channels. These platforms enable businesses to showcase their impact, innovation and leadership to a wider audience.” The awards recognise organisations that make a meaningful contribution to the KwaZulu-Natal economy and demonstrate proactive business practices aligned with the principles of King V corporate governance. Award Categories include: ■ Standard Bank Client of the Year – Small Enterprise ■ Standard Bank Client of the Year – Large Entity ■ Manufacturing Sector ■ Transport and Logistics Sector ■ Franchising Sector ■ Family-Owned and Managed Businesses ■ Agricultural and Agro- Processing Sector ■ Business, Financial and Educational Sector ■ Community Upliftment and Improvement ■ Renewable Efficiency and Green Initiatives ■ Employee Wellness Being named a finalist or winner signals to customers, partners and stakeholders that a business meets a recognised benchmark of excellence. This independent endorsement strengthens reputation, builds confidence and differentiates organisations in a crowded marketplace. For businesses ready to build trust, elevate their brand and unlock new opportunities, the KZN Top Business Awards offer a platform to do exactly that. Entries close on 12 June 2026, with the final gala event taking place at the Durban International Convention Centre on 16 July 2026. Visit www.kzntopbusiness.com to enter or more information contact gayle@mweb.co.za or +27 (0)83 653 0465

King Shaka International Airport marks 16 years as a key driver of KwaZulu Natal’s Economic Growth, Tourism, and Trade Connectivity ACSA’s 21.7 billion infrastructure programme, rising international connectivity, and sustained tourism growth position the airport at the centre of KwaZulu-Natal’s economic expansion. King Shaka International Airport (KSIA) marks its 16th anniversary on the 01 May 2026, as a critical driver of economic activity in KwaZulu-Natal, supported by the infrastructure investment programme and a tourism sector that generated R9.6 billion in GDP during the most recent festive season. As South Africa’s third busiest airport after O. R. Tambo International Airport and Cape Town International Airport, KSIA serves as the province’s primary international gateway, supporting a regional economy of more than 12 million people. The airport performance over the period FY2019/20 to FY2025/26 reflects a strong recovery trajectory following the significant disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In FY2019/20, the airport recorded its pre-pandemic baseline of approximately 6.1 million passengers (100%) and 50,753 aircraft movements (ATMs), representing normal operational conditions. A sharp decline was experienced in FY2020/21, with passenger numbers dropping to 1.5 million (25%) and ATMs decreasing to 14,650 (29%), reflecting the impact of global travel restrictions. From FY2021/22, recovery began steadily, with passenger volumes increasing to 3.2 million (53%) and ATMs recovering to 59%. The upward trend continued into FY2022/23 and FY2024/25, where passenger volumes reached 4.99 million (82%) and 5.04 million (83%) respectively, while ATMs improved to over 81% of pre-COVID levels. Although FY2023/24 showed a slight moderation, overall recovery momentum remained positive and stable. For FY2025/26, performance continued to recover strongly, reaching 5.6 million passengers, representing a 92% recovery compared to pre-COVID levels. Aircraft Traffic Movements (ATMs) reached 40,935, reflecting an 89% recovery against the 2019/20 baseline. This recovery is not cyclical as it reflects a structural shift in how KwaZulu-Natal connects to global markets. Through the Kwa-Zulu Natal Route Development Committee, Durban Direct, tremendous strides have been made to date to drive sustainability and stability in the market to ensure that air travel remains accessible, for the benefit of all our stakeholders. The economic effect of this connectivity is visible in tourism performance. KwaZulu-Natal recorded more than 1.2 million visitors during the 2025/26 festive season, a 19% year-on-year increase and supported more than 14 000 jobs. KwaZulu-Natal Tourism & Film Authority data further shows that 194,00 international tourists visited KwaZulu-Natal in the first quarter of 2025, contributing R1.5 billion in foreign spend, while domestic travel generated a further R6.1 billion in economic activity. As we grow, and evolve, KSIA is embarking on an investment programme which includes the upgrade of existing facilities and infrastructure, new airport facilities and compliance related projects. This underscores ACSA’s commitment to enhancing service delivery for our stakeholders and passengers. “King Shaka International Airport is a critical asset of the regional economic activity in the province, supporting not only tourism growth and global connectivity but strengthening trade flows,” said Nkosinathi Myataza, Regional General Manager at King Shaka International Airport. Its evolution over the past 16 years is a testament to sustained investment and to the conviction that an airports measure is not only the number of passengers it handles but the breadth of opportunity it creates for the communities it serves.” The conviction is visible in the airports contribution to regional development reinforced through targeted socio-economic programmes focused on skills development, enterprise support and food security projects in surrounding communities, including agricultural training initiatives in Verulam and early childhood development training in Ndwedwe. ​Beyond passenger traffic, KSIA operational performance has also been consistently recognised globally. KSIA has recently been recognised in the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2026, ranking - 4th place Best Airport in Africa, 2nd place Best Regional Airport, and placed 10th in the 5-10 million passenger category. In addition, the airport earned the 2025 ASQ Customer Experience Award for Best Airports: Most enjoyable in Africa. These accolades reinforce its position as one of the continent’s most consistently recognised airports for service excellence. As we look ahead, our focus is on aligning capacity with demand and ensuring that infrastructure investment translates into sustained economic value added Myataza. KSIA is positioned not only to support growth, but to shape it through stronger connectivity, continued operational excellence and deeper regional integration. KSIA KEY DRIVER OF KZN ECONOMY

WHY ENTER THE KZN TOP BUSINESS AWARDS Trust remains the defining currency of modern business. In a competitive and fast-moving marketplace, it is often the single factor that separates brands that endure from those that fade. The KZN Top Business Awards, brought to you by Standard Bank and Women of Africa Group, and supported by East Coast Radio, have emerged as a powerful platform for building that trust, not only between businesses and their customers, but across the broader KwaZulu-Natal business community. As consumers become increasingly discerning, expectations have evolved. Today’s customers seek authenticity, transparency and meaningful connection. They want to understand who they are engaging with, what those businesses stand for, and whether their values align. The KZN Top Business Awards respond directly to this shift by placing people, purpose and credibility at the forefront. For businesses aiming to grow, differentiate themselves and strengthen stakeholder relationships, entering the awards is not merely an opportunity, but a strategic business decision. Carl Henriksen, Head of Commercial Banking (KwaZulu‑Natal) at Business and Commercial Banking, Standard Bank South Africa, adds, “At Standard Bank, we believe trust is the cornerstone of sustainable business growth. The KZN Top Business Awards embody this principle by recognising organisations that not only deliver results but also demonstrate integrity, purpose and accountability. Through platforms like these, we aim to celebrate businesses that keep growing while building meaningful connections with their stakeholders and communities.” Often referred to as the ‘Oscars of business in KZN’, the awards go beyond recognition. They shine a spotlight on the people behind the brands, the leaders, innovators and teams who drive success. This human-centric approach transforms how businesses present themselves, shifting toward meaningful storytelling where trust is built. Adv Pria Hassan, CEO of the Women of Africa Group, notes: “In a region rich with entrepreneurial spirit and innovation, trust remains the foundation of sustainable success. The KZN Top Business Awards provide a platform to earn it, showcase it, and build upon it.” Grant Adlam, CEO of the KZN Top Business Awards, adds: “Of note, participants benefit from enhanced visibility. Through our strong digital public relations and media campaign, the awards provide exposure that extends well beyond traditional advertising channels. These platforms enable businesses to showcase their impact, innovation and leadership to a wider audience.” The awards recognise organisations that make a meaningful contribution to the KwaZulu-Natal economy and demonstrate proactive business practices aligned with the principles of King V corporate governance. Award Categories include: ■ Standard Bank Client of the Year – Small Enterprise ■ Standard Bank Client of the Year – Large Entity ■ Manufacturing Sector ■ Transport and Logistics Sector ■ Franchising Sector ■ Family-Owned and Managed Businesses ■ Agricultural and AgroProcessing Sector ■ Business, Financial and Educational Sector ■ Community Upliftment and Improvement ■ Renewable Efficiency and Green Initiatives ■ Employee Wellness Being named a finalist or winner signals to customers, partners and stakeholders that a business meets a recognised benchmark of excellence. This independent endorsement strengthens reputation, builds confidence and differentiates organisations in a crowded marketplace. For businesses ready to build trust, elevate their brand and unlock new opportunities, the KZN Top Business Awards offer a platform to do exactly that. Entries close on 12 June 2026, with the final gala event taking place at the Durban International Convention Centre on 16 July 2026. Carl Henriksen (Standard Bank) and Adv Pria Hassan (Women of Africa) Visit www.kzntopbusiness.com to enter Or for more information contact gayle@mweb.co.za or +27 (0)83 653 0465 Stay connected with the KZN Top Business Awards through: Facebook page www.facebook.com/kzntopbusiness YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/KZNTopBusiness Twitter https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fkzntopbusiness LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/kzntopbusiness Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kzntopbusiness

In an environment where personal safety, emergency response, and rapid assistance have become increasingly important, Mobiventures continues to position itself as a leader in innovative emergency response solutions across South Africa. Through its advanced platforms and specialised services, the company is redefining the way individuals, families, and businesses access emergency support when it matters most. With services including Mobi-Claw911, Mobi-Trak911, Premium Ambulance Plan, and BarMobi, Mobiventures has created a comprehensive emergency ecosystem designed to provide fast, coordinated assistance at the touch of a button. Your Gateway to Emergency Services Across South Africa At the heart of Mobiventures’ offering is the Mobi-Claw911 platform — an intelligent emergency response application that connects users directly to professional emergency support services nationwide. The easy-to-use Mobi-Claw911 app is designed to trigger immediate alerts during emergencies, ensuring that users receive assistance as quickly as possible. Once an alert is activated, the system identifies who the user is, where they are located, and what type of emergency assistance is required. Highly trained operators within the 24-hour control room immediately coordinate a tactical rapid response by dispatching the appropriate first responders. This can include: SAPS Metro Police Armed Response Teams Paramedics Fire and Disaster Services Vehicle Tracking and Recovery Services This integrated response system ensures that emergencies are managed efficiently until the situation is secure and no further threat exists. More Than Just Another Panic App What sets Mobiventures apart is its unique Intelligent Multi Distribution Panic Alert System, allowing multiple emergency services and response teams to be alerted simultaneously. Unlike traditional panic apps, Mobi-Claw911 provides access to a vast national network of emergency responders across South Africa, creating a coordinated support structure designed to reduce response times and improve safety outcomes. The platform also includes geo-fenced safety nets, offering users additional layers of protection while enabling accurate location tracking during emergencies. Comprehensive Emergency Support Mobiventures understands that emergencies come in many forms. Their solutions are designed to provide support across a wide range of emergency situations, including: Medical emergencies Criminal incidents Fire and disaster situations Third-party witness reporting By combining innovative technology with strategic emergency partnerships, Mobiventures has created a powerful safety solution that delivers peace of mind when every second counts. Contact Details For enquiries, subscriptions, or emergency service information, please use the details below: Phone: 031 109 1888 Email: care@mobiventures.co.za Emergency App: Mobi-Claw911 / Mobi-Trak911 For urgent emergencies, always use the Mobi-Claw911 app for immediate response activation Mobiventures: South Africa’s Gateway to Emergency Response and Personal Protection

In today’s fast-moving business environment, strong management is no longer optional—it’s essential. The 12-Week Online Management MasterClass, starting 11 May 2026 through 03 August 2026, is designed to equip professionals, team leaders, and business owners with the practical skills needed to lead with confidence, clarity, and impact. This structured, results-driven programme goes beyond theory—offering real-world tools, strategies, and accountability to help you become a more effective, high-performing manager. A Journey Through Three Powerful Stages The programme is built around three progressive stages that develop both personal and professional capability: Ignite – Build Strong Foundations The first stage focuses on strengthening how you engage with others. You’ll learn how to communicate effectively, build meaningful relationships, and navigate workplace challenges with confidence. These skills lay the groundwork for stronger collaboration and influence within your team and organisation. Empower – Strengthen Your Management Ability In stage two, the focus shifts to personal growth and leadership development. You’ll gain deeper insight into managing people, understanding team dynamics, and addressing employee needs effectively. This stage equips you with the tools to handle real workplace situations with ease and professionalism. Achieve – Drive Results and Performance The final stage is about unlocking high performance. You’ll learn advanced strategies to boost productivity, improve team harmony, and drive measurable results. With a focus on mindset, leadership, and execution, this stage prepares you to operate at a top-performing level. What You Can Expect This MasterClass is designed for busy professionals who want maximum impact with minimal disruption: Duration: 12 Weeks Commitment: 90 minutes per week Format: Online and interactive Structure: Learn → Unpack → Implement Each week introduces practical concepts that can be immediately applied in your workplace, ensuring real progress—not just learning. Comprehensive Learning Experience Participants benefit from a rich and engaging learning environment that includes: 12 structured training sessions covering core management principles Self-paced video content for deeper understanding Workbooks and planning tools to support implementation Actionable strategies across leadership, communication, and performance This approach ensures that learning is not only understood—but applied. Learn from Industry-Leading Experts The programme is facilitated by Trevor Clark, an award-winning business coach and globally recognised leader in the coaching space. With over three decades of experience across multiple industries and international markets, Trevor brings a powerful combination of practical insight and strategic thinking. The course content is designed by Brad Sugars, founder of ActionCOACH, widely regarded as the world’s number one business coaching firm. His proven frameworks have helped thousands of businesses achieve growth, clarity, and sustainability. Real Results That Matter Business leaders who have worked with this coaching approach consistently report measurable improvements in performance, team engagement, and overall business outcomes. From improved communication to stronger leadership presence and increased productivity, the programme delivers tangible, lasting value. Investment in Your Growth Standard Fee: R15,000 per delegate (incl. VAT) Early Bird Offer: R13,500 per delegate Savings: R1,500 when booking early Group Rates: Available on request This is more than a course—it’s an investment in your leadership future. Start Your Leadership Transformation If you’re ready to elevate your management skills, strengthen your team, and drive better results in your organisation, this MasterClass offers the structure, support, and expertise to get you there. Secure your seat and take the next step toward becoming the leader your business needs. Transform Your Leadership in Just 12 Weeks

1 in 3 business leaders believe pay transparency will become standard practice as early as 2029 Johannesburg, South Africa, 06 May 2026 – More than one in three (34%) South African business leaders believe pay transparency will become standard practice in as little as three years, according to new research by global talent solutions partner, Robert Walters. While 70% believe internal pay disputes will be their biggest challenge if it is passed into law. With South Africa’s Fair Pay Bill opening for public comment last week, many local employers are now considering how pay transparency could shape their workforce strategies. Pay transparency is the practice of sharing information about total compensation either in a job advertisement or during negotiation discussions, as well as the logic behind how pay decisions are made. Phill Brown, Global Head of Market Intelligence at Robert Walters, says, “South African businesses are competing for skilled professionals on a global stage. In a number of markets, including the US, Australia and soon the EU, there is more openness around salary, and it is starting to shape how jobseekers assess opportunities at home. “Many organisations worry that pay transparency will be costly, particularly where pay structures have evolved unevenly over time. In reality, the bigger challenge is often not having visibility. When leaders get a clear picture of how pay is set across the business, conversations quickly move from concern to action, with a far sharper focus on where change is genuinely required.” The concern for leaders Despite nearly 40% of businesses saying they already include salary ranges in job adverts or are seriously considering it, one in five leaders are concerned about losing flexibility in hiring offers and competitors gaining insight into pay structures. “There is a perception that publishing salary ranges limits flexibility. In practice, what tends to happen is that salary ranges set clearer expectations from the outset. It can reduce back-and-forth later in the process and support more confident, informed hiring decisions for both employers and jobseekers,” adds Phill. Employees support pay ranges in job adverts When asked if they would support employers being required to include pay ranges in job advertisements, 90% of professionals say they strongly support it, while nearly 70% agree this makes prospective employers look more appealing. Additionally, nearly 50% of professionals say they would feel more positive about their employer if pay was fully transparent internally. “This shows how closely pay transparency and employee value proposition are connected”, says Phill. “If candidates can’t understand how you pay and why, they are less likely to be persuaded to join your business. The strongest message you can have is that you have a clear approach to how reward works at your organisation.” According to the recently launched Robert Walters Pay Transparency guide, equipping managers with the right language and open communication are the top two ways to manage the cultural shift that can arise. “Pay transparency is not a simple policy issue but part of a wider shift in how employers communicate value. Businesses should consider modernising reward in a way that supports trust and gives leaders a data-backed foundation for pay decisions”, concludes Phill. The Pay Transparency guide draws on Robert Walters’ global market insight across recruitment, outsourcing, and talent advisory to support organisations across the globe to understand pay transparency, its impact, and the steps leaders can take to implement transparent practices. Download the full Pay Transparency guide here: The Impact of Global Pay Transparency | Robert Walters ENDS For media enquiries, please contact: Laila Manie, Marketing Executive Email: Laila.Manie@RobertWalters.com Nompumelelo Khesa, Marketing Executive Tel: +27 11 881 2414 E-mail: Nompumelelo.Khesa@RobertWalters.com About Robert Walters With more than 2,900 people in 29 countries, Robert Walters delivers recruitment consultancy, staffing, recruitment process outsourcing and managed services across the globe. From traditional recruitment and staffing to end-to-end talent management, our consultants are experts at matching highly skilled people to permanent, contract and interim roles across all professional disciplines. https://www.robertwaltersafrica.com/ Is Pay Transparency the Next Big Shift for South African Employers?