Advocate Pria Hassan, CEO of WOA Group, and Fikile Msiza, Head of Region, Business Banking KZN at Standard Bank The KZN Top Business Awards 2026 are now open for entries, celebrating the leading enterprises in KwaZulu-Natal. Advocate Pria Hassan and Fikile Msiza emphasize the awards' role in highlighting leadership, innovation, and competitiveness. Standard Bank supports growth and partnerships, offering a platform for creativity and collaboration. Through storytelling, the program showcases companies' contributions to economic growth and job creation, inspiring resilience, integrity, and community development. Entrants can elevate their brands, celebrate achievements, and network with industry professionals, sharing strategies and fostering success.

In the competitive landscape of KwaZulu-Natal, visibility is key to success. For businesses striving to reach the pinnacle of their industry and be recognized among the "KZN Top Business" elite, a robust SEO strategy is not just an option; it's an essential prerequisite for sustainable growth and market leadership. The Foundation: On-Page Optimization and Keyword Relevance Effective SEO begins with a deep understanding of how potential customers search for products or services in KZN. This requires meticulous keyword research tailored specifically to the regional market. For a "KZN Top Business," keywords must reflect both local relevance and industry authority. For example, a premier law firm might target "top corporate lawyers Durban" or "best legal services KZN." Integrating these keywords seamlessly into website content, including page titles, meta descriptions, headers, and body text, is crucial. This helps search engines understand the relevance of your pages to specific search queries. KZN Top Business - The List: Leveraging SEO for Success in KwaZulu-Natal's Competitive Market Building Authority through Off-Page SEO Achieving top rankings goes beyond on-page optimization. Off-page SEO is equally vital, focusing on building a website's authority and credibility through external factors. A primary driver of off-page SEO is link building. When other reputable websites link to yours, it signals to search engines that your content is valuable and trustworthy. For a business aiming to be a "KZN Top Business," securing backlinks from relevant local organizations, industry publications, and influential blogs can significantly enhance its online reputation and search engine rankings. The Power of Technical SEO While content and authority are paramount, the technical health of a website cannot be ignored. Technical SEO ensures that search engine crawlers can easily index and understand your site. Key elements include fast loading speeds, mobile-friendliness, secure connections (HTTPS), and a clean site structure. A well-optimized website provides a superior user experience, which is not only beneficial for SEO but also for converting visitors into customers. Local SEO: Connecting with the KZN Community For businesses with a physical presence or a focus on the KZN region, local SEO is non-negotiable. This involves optimizing your Google Business Profile, encouraging positive customer reviews, and ensuring that your business information is consistent across all online directories. Local SEO allows you to appear in the "Map Pack" for relevant searches, capturing high-intent leads in your immediate area. A Holistic and Long-Term Approach Achieving optimal SEO performance is a continuous process. Algorithms evolve, competition changes, and consumer search behavior shifts. Therefore, a successful SEO strategy requires ongoing monitoring, analysis, and refinement. By adopting a comprehensive approach that encompasses on-page, off-page, and technical SEO, businesses in KZN can not only improve their search engine rankings but also establish themselves as true leaders in their field, deserving of the "KZN Top Business" title. It is an investment in long-term visibility, credibility, and profitability in the dynamic KwaZulu-Natal market. Source For businesses competing at the highest levels in KZN ("KZN Top Business"), achieving optimal SEO performance

Advocate Pria Hassan, WOA CEO, interviewed by Chelsea Brand Recognizing the accomplishments of women in business by KZN Top Business goes beyond mere celebration. It is a significant acknowledgment of resilience, leadership, and the ability to overcome obstacles that often hinder success. In a recent conversation between Chelsea Brand from KZN Top Business and Pria Hassan from Women of Africa, the story of Nosipho Siwisa Damasane , president of the Richards Bay Coal Terminal, was showcased as a prime example of these attributes. This article delves into the emotional impact of honoring women like Nosipho, the importance of empowerment and growth, the value of a comprehensive business approach, and the vision for the future of women-led enterprises. The Emotional Impact of Recognition Pria Hassan expressed how profoundly moving it is to honor women who break barriers and challenge societal norms. She referred to Nosipho as a "lioness," a term that embodies her fierce determination and strength. Nosipho’s journey transcends business success; it is about overcoming significant challenges and standing firm against adversity. Recognition provides validation for these women’s efforts and sacrifices. It communicates that their hard work is meaningful and inspires others to follow their path. For many women, this acknowledgment is a source of motivation and pride, reinforcing their confidence in their potential. Empowerment and Growth Through Exposure One of the key objectives Pria highlighted is creating platforms where women-owned businesses can gain visibility and enhance their brands. Exposure is essential for growth, as it opens doors to new opportunities, partnerships, and customers. Women entrepreneurs often face difficulties in accessing networks and resources that are readily available to others. By showcasing their stories and achievements, organizations like Women of Africa and KZN Top Business help create a level playing field. This approach encourages more women to take bold steps in their business endeavors. Practical Ways to Support Women Entrepreneurs Attend events and forums that feature women-led businesses. Share stories and successes on social media and community platforms. Invest in women-owned companies or support their products and services. Mentor or offer guidance to emerging women entrepreneurs. These actions contribute to a stronger, more inclusive business environment where women can thrive. A Holistic Approach to Business Success Pria Hassan’s strategy extends beyond merely celebrating business achievements. She emphasizes socioeconomic imperatives that include well-being, economic growth, job creation, and environmental consciousness. This comprehensive approach ensures that business success positively impacts the broader community. Nosipho ’s leadership at the Richards Bay Coal Terminal exemplifies this balance. Under her guidance, the terminal not only operates efficiently but also considers its impact on employees and the environment. This mindset is crucial for sustainable growth and long-term success. Key Elements of a Holistic Business Strategy Prioritize employee well-being and development. Foster economic opportunities that benefit local communities. Implement environmentally responsible practices. Encourage innovation that supports social and economic goals. By integrating these elements, businesses can establish strong foundations that support resilience and adaptability. Looking Ahead: Building Powerhouses Pria Hassan’s vision for the coming year is ambitious yet clear: to help every business that engages with their process become a "powerhouse." This means transforming companies into strong, influential players in their industries. Achieving this requires ongoing support, resources, and a commitment to growth. It also involves celebrating every milestone and learning from challenges. The journey of Nosipho Siwisa Damasane serves as a blueprint for what is possible when resilience meets opportunity. Steps to Build a Business Powerhouse Grant Adlam  shooting some behind the senses footage Develop a clear mission and values that guide decisions. Invest in leadership and team development. Seek partnerships that align with business goals. Stay adaptable to changing market conditions. Measure impact beyond profits, including social and environmental factors. These steps help businesses not only survive but thrive in competitive environments. Final Thoughts Honoring women like Nosipho Siwisa Damasane underscores the power of resilience and leadership in business. It reminds us that success often comes from overcoming obstacles and remaining committed to a vision. By providing platforms for recognition, supporting growth, and encouraging a holistic approach, we can help more women build strong, sustainable businesses. Advocate Pria Hassan, WOA CEO, interviewed by Chelsea Brand

By: eThekwini Municipality EThekwini Municipality has achieved a significant milestone in its campaign to position Durban as Africa's premier superyacht destination, following a successful visit to the Yachting Aftersales and Refit Experience (YARE) conference in Viareggio, Italy. The delegation, comprising Inner City Regeneration Programme Manager Lungelo Buthelezi and Nomalanga Sokhela from the Economic Development Directorate, engaged global shipyards, captains, manufacturers, and investors. They were supported on the ground by Brian Ngiba, Managing Director of Ziziba Holdings, Navigo's strategic local partner. A major highlight of the visit was the ceremonial handover of the Letter of Intent (LOI) between eThekwini Municipality and Navigo, custodians of the YARE programme and widely regarded as the global leader in superyacht destination development. The LOI, signed by eThekwini City Manager Musa Mbhele, was formally presented by Buthelezi to Navigo President Katia Balducci at a high-profile event attended by industry leaders and international media in Viareggio, Italy. Through this partnership, Navigo has confirmed its commitment to mobilise significant private-sector investment towards Durban's superyacht infrastructure and refit capabilities, with projected investment estimated at over R1.9 billion. The delegation also extended formal invitations to over 100 superyacht captains and more than 100 global yacht manufacturers to attend the YARE Symposium to be held in Durban in November this year. Durban will become the first African city ever to host this globally recognised event. Sentiments from shipyards and captains have been positive, signalling strong confidence in Durban's emerging value proposition and market potential. The anticipated economic impact of this partnership is significant. Projections indicate that more than 2,500 direct jobs could be created by 2030 across marine engineering, refit services, advanced manufacturing, and tourism. Parallel to this, eThekwini and the Durban University of Technology are advancing plans for Africa's first Professionalised Superyacht Academy, which will train young South Africans in high-demand skills such as welding, marine engineering, and advanced composites fabrication. Throughout the visit, from 8 to 16 March, Durban's delegation held strategic engagements with senior executives from leading shipyards. The City's proposed superyacht precinct, located on a 24-hectare site within the Port of Durban, was presented as a compelling and competitive offering for future investment. In terms of the TNPA Ship Repair Strategy, this site is specifically reserved for the refit market, which includes superyacht servicing and maintenance, a key selling point for international investors. Reflecting on the historic moment, Buthelezi said that presenting the signed LOI to Navigo's leadership on behalf of the City Manager was an honour, adding that the ceremony signalled Durban's readiness and unwavering commitment to establishing a world-class superyacht ecosystem. Navigo President Katia Balducci affirmed the organisation's confidence in Durban, stating: "This partnership represents the beginning of a historic chapter for Africa's participation in the global superyacht industry. Durban has the vision, the infrastructure, and the commitment to succeed." The Municipality is now moving into the next phase of implementation. Preparations are underway to host the YARE Symposium in Durban this November, alongside detailed planning for the proposed superyacht precinct. From left to right is Nomalanga Sokhela, Maritime Sector Specialist; Vincenzo Poerio, President of YARE; Lungelo Buthelezi, Inner City Regeneration Programme Manager; Katia Balducci, President of Navigo; and Pietro Angelini, General Manager of Navigo, during engagements in Viareggio, Italy.

By Chelsea Brand Nestled into the industrial heartbeat of Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal is a business that has been part of powering the region’s manufacturing and retail sectors for over six decades. Drakewoods, a proudly South African brand, has become synonymous with quality tools and trusted service — a reputation built not overnight, but over 65 years of consistency, relationships, and resilience. Founded in 1961, Drakewoods has grown into a well-established supplier of branded tools and consumables, servicing both industrial and retail markets. From globally recognised power tool brands like Makita, Bosch and Metabo, to pneumatic solutions such as Chicago Pneumatic, and consumables ranging from Loctite to Genkem, the company offers an extensive product range tailored to the needs of modern industry. At the helm is CEO Prin Mudaly, whose journey with the company spans an impressive 35 years. Joining straight out of university, Prin stepped into a business that was already part of his family’s story. What began as an opportunity soon became a lifelong commitment. “It’s a long history,” Prin reflects simply; but behind those words lies decades of hands-on experience, growth, and adaptation. Operating out of Pinetown has played a key role in that growth. Once considered a smaller town within the greater eThekwini region, Pinetown has evolved into a bustling industrial hub. With a diverse mix of sectors, the area has naturally become a strategic base for a company like Drakewoods. As industry gravitated toward Pinetown, so too did the need for reliable suppliers. Drakewoods rose to meet that demand, expanding its footprint while maintaining a strong connection to the businesses it serves. Drakewoods Product Range What sets Drakewoods apart in a competitive market, according to Prin, is not just its product offering, but its legacy. As industry leaders in the supply of quality branded tools and consumables, the company has cultivated long-standing relationships with suppliers, some spanning more than six decades. “We still maintain those relationships to this day, and we are proud of that,” he says. “The confidence that these brands have in Drakewoods reaffirms our commitment to the industry.” Like many businesses, Drakewoods has had to navigate its share of challenges in recent years. From the disruptions of Covid-19 to the impact of local unrest, the landscape has been anything but predictable. Yet, rather than retreat, the company adapted with a renewed focus on delivering value. For Drakewoods, this means more than just supplying products. It’s about working closely with manufacturers to ensure cost savings are passed on to customers, helping businesses remain sustainable in an increasingly pressured economy. At the same time, the company continues to prioritise product quality, safety, and technical expertise, elements that are critical in industrial environments. Looking ahead, Drakewoods is setting its sights on growth but in a way that stays true to its roots. While the company has traditionally operated through a trade counter model, there are plans to evolve the retail experience. The vision is to open up the space, allowing customers to engage more directly with the products and to see, feel, and understand the quality that defines the Drakewoods name. It’s not about becoming a big-box retailer, Prin explains, but rather about enhancing accessibility while maintaining a curated, quality-driven offering. Interestingly, one of the biggest misconceptions about Drakewoods is its pricing. As a recognised brand, many assume it comes with a premium cost. Prin is quick to challenge that perception. “People think we are expensive, and we’re not,” he says. “When you consider the quality and the safety that comes with it, along with the value we bring, we are very competitive.” In fact, as a volume-driven business, Drakewoods prides itself on offering strong value for money, often standing shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the most competitive suppliers in the market. When it comes to standout products, however, there is no single bestseller. Instead, the strength of Drakewoods lies in its diversity — from hand tools like spanners and socket sets to lubricants and industrial consumables. It’s this breadth that allows the company to serve a wide range of industries with equal confidence. At its core, Drakewoods is more than just a supplier, it’s a business built on relationships, reliability, and a genuine understanding of its customers’ needs. And perhaps it is Prin’s personal philosophy that best captures the spirit of the company: “Do good and be good.” In an industry often defined by margins and mechanics, it’s a simple reminder that kindness, integrity, and purpose still matter and that even in the world of tools and trade, people remain at the centre of it all. Address:  112 Josiah Gumede Rd, Pinetown, 3600 Phone:  031 701 5924 Email: sales@drakewoods.com Website:   https://drakewoods.com/

By: Dylan Naidoo On the 2 March 2026, Rio Tinto approved the Zulti South project by Richards Bay Minerals, a project that is expected to ‘extend the mine's life to 2050 and ensure RBM's operational continuity for years to come’. The project was originally suspended in January 2020, but now with restrictions lifted, this $473 million investment (translated to R7.9 billion according to the current Google exchange rate calculator) serves as a new venture for Richards Bay Minerals.   Zulti South is a project that is expected to be key in retaining the operations for Richards Bay Minerals to 2050. The China Harbour Engineering Company has been appointed to work on the engineering, procurement and construction on the project, with an estimated start during the first quarter of 2026 and construction is estimated to take 30 months to complete, with the start of commercial production expected to begin at the 4th quarter of 2028. From a statement issued by Rio Tinto , they state that the choice for the China Harbour Engineering Company was due to their proven track record of previous successful partnerships with Rio Tinto, mentioning the Simandou project in Guinea.   "The decision to proceed also reflects improved security conditions and strengthened community partnerships," Richards Bay Minerals managing director Werner Duvenhage said.   The project aims to construct many structural components, including two pipe bridges, a 220m long structural steel bridge with a 60m main span and a 72m long precast, and a prestressed beam deck able to withstand heavy loads.   In Rio Tinto’s press statement, the Vice President of China Harbour Engineering Company, commented, “We are honoured to be chosen as Rio Tinto’s strategic execution partner for Zulti South. Our relationship is founded on trust, performance, and shared values. We are committed to delivering a project that strengthens RBM’s future and benefits local communities” (   For more information, you can read the original press release here: https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2026/rio-tinto-approves-zulti-south-investment RBM signed the EPC agreement with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), a global engineering leader, to bring the Zulti South project to life.

By: Sharlene Versfeld | Ocean Innovation Africa – Communications Desk The Director-General of the European Commission’s for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Charlina Vitcheva, will deliver the keynote address at the Ocean Innovation Africa Summit, taking place in Durban from 23 to 25 March. Ocean Innovation Africa, in collaboration with the eThekwini Municipality, will host this year’s edition at the INkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre. The significance of this annual event is reflected in its growing reach, with the 2025 summit attracting 593 delegates from 59 countries, including 28 African nations. Vitcheva will deliver the keynote address aligned to the summit theme, “Accelerating and Scaling Out Regenerative Blue Economy Action,” and will also participate as a panellist in a high-level panel discussion titled “Blue Finance for Resilience: Shifting from Aid Dependency to Sustainable Local Capital.” The summit will bring together policymakers, practitioners, innovators, community leaders, investors, researchers and development partners to explore pathways that support the uptake of African-developed solutions. It will focus on advancing regenerative blue business models, nature-positive growth, marine protection, economic expansion, community resilience and the strengthening of pan-African innovation ecosystems. Welcoming Vitcheva’s participation, eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba said the City is honoured to host a global leader in maritime affairs and fisheries. He noted that, as a coastal city deeply connected to the ocean economy, Durban stands to benefit from strengthened engagement between international policymakers and African stakeholders, creating opportunities for regeneration, collaboration and inclusive growth. The Ocean Innovation Africa Summit continues to position itself as a platform focused on action and collaboration rather than dialogue alone. In her role, Vitcheva leads European Union policy on maritime affairs and fisheries, working to promote ocean health, sustainable fisheries, a thriving blue economy, and resilient coastal communities. Alexis Grosskopf, Co-founder of Ocean Innovation Africa, noted that the summit is designed to move beyond traditional conference formats by fostering coordinated action among key stakeholders. He added that Vitcheva’s participation will help bridge policy, investment priorities and practical pathways to scale regenerative ocean solutions across Africa, bringing valuable expertise across finance, innovation, science and implementation. Vitcheva emphasised the importance of international cooperation, stating that the European Ocean Pact serves as a blueprint for the protection and sustainable use of the ocean. She highlighted that partnerships, including those under the Global Gateway Strategy and initiatives such as Blue Invest Africa are critical to promoting sustainable ocean governance, supporting local value creation and unlocking investment in ocean solutions. She further noted that protecting the ocean and building prosperity for coastal communities must go hand in hand. Vitcheva’s presence at the summit highlights its growing global relevance and its role in shaping solutions to challenges related to ocean health and the sustainable development of the blue economy. As the host city, Durban continues to strengthen its position as a key hub for ocean economy dialogue and innovation. For more information or to register, visit www.ocean-innovation.africa

In a world where quality and authenticity matter more than ever, Aquelle stands as a trusted name in pure, natural hydration. Sourced from the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, Aquelle water begins its journey deep underground, where it is naturally filtered through layers of rock — a process that ensures both purity and a perfectly balanced mineral composition. From the moment it emerges, Aquelle is protected at its source, carefully bottled to preserve its clean, crisp taste. The result is water that remains as pure when you drink it as it was beneath the earth — refreshing, smooth, and naturally satisfying. About Aquelle Aquelle is a proudly South African brand known for delivering high-quality spring water and flavoured water beverages to consumers across the country. With a strong focus on innovation and accessibility, Aquelle has grown into a household name, offering a wide range of products that cater to different tastes and lifestyles. From still and sparkling spring water to its popular flavoured water range, Aquelle continues to expand its offerings while maintaining a commitment to quality and affordability. The brand is also recognised for its continuous investment in technology and production excellence, ensuring that every bottle meets the highest standards. But Aquelle is about more than just water — it’s about promoting healthier choices and making hydration enjoyable for everyone. Whether it’s encouraging people to drink more water daily or providing flavourful alternatives without compromising on refreshment, Aquelle remains focused on supporting everyday wellbeing. Why Choose Aquelle? Because hydration should be simple, natural, and reliable. Whether you’re at work, at the gym, on the road, or at home, Aquelle is the perfect companion to keep you refreshed throughout the day. It’s water you can trust — pure, local, and crafted by nature. Take a sip. Stay refreshed. Choose Aquelle. Aquelle: Pure Hydration, Naturally

At the recent National Transport Conference, industry leaders, policymakers, and key stakeholders gathered to explore the future of South Africa’s transport landscape, with a strong focus on unlocking economic growth through improved connectivity. Among the prominent voices was Mpumi Mpofu, CEO of Airports Company South Africa, who shared valuable insights on the evolving role of aviation in strengthening trade and regional integration. Mpofu emphasised that airports are no longer just transit points for passengers, but critical economic hubs that can drive trade, tourism, and industrial development. She highlighted the importance of transforming airports into integrated, multimodal hubs that seamlessly connect air, road, and rail networks. This approach not only enhances the efficiency of cargo movement but also reduces logistical bottlenecks, enabling faster, more reliable delivery of goods both domestically and internationally. By improving these connections, South Africa can better position itself as a strategic gateway for trade across the African continent and beyond. Efficient cargo handling and streamlined supply chains are essential for boosting exports, particularly for time-sensitive goods such as fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, and high-value manufactured items. Mpofu noted that well-integrated transport systems can significantly improve competitiveness in global markets. A key theme throughout her address was the importance of collaboration. Mpofu stressed that achieving this vision requires strong partnerships between government, industry players, and logistics providers. Aligned policies, coordinated infrastructure investment, and a shared commitment to innovation are vital to unlocking the full potential of the aviation sector. She also pointed out that aviation plays a crucial role in supporting tourism growth, which remains a major contributor to South Africa’s economy. By improving connectivity and accessibility, the country can attract more international visitors while also making regional travel more efficient and affordable. This, in turn, stimulates local economies, creates jobs, and supports small businesses across the tourism value chain. Discussions at the conference further highlighted the need for forward-thinking strategies that embrace digital transformation, sustainability, and resilience. From smarter cargo tracking systems to greener airport operations, the future of aviation lies in innovation that not only improves efficiency but also aligns with global environmental goals. As the transport sector continues to evolve, it is clear that aviation will remain a cornerstone of economic development. With leadership from organisations like Airports Company South Africa and visionaries like Mpumi Mpofu, South Africa is well-positioned to harness the power of integrated transport systems to drive trade, strengthen regional ties, and build a more connected and competitive economy. Aviation as a Catalyst for Trade and Connectivity Takes Centre Stage at National Transport Conference- ASCA

SA Home Loans is celebrating a significant milestone following the recognition of its latest securitisation, Thekwini Fund 20, which has been awarded the prestigious “Securitisation Deal of the Year” at the Global Banking & Markets Africa Awards 2026. This achievement highlights not only the strength and innovation behind Thekwini Fund 20 but also the exceptional capabilities of the company’s Treasury team. Their expertise, precision, and commitment to excellence played a pivotal role in structuring a deal that stands out on a continental stage. The award reflects SA Home Loans’ continued dedication to advancing financial solutions that make home ownership more accessible to South Africans. Through strategic securitisation initiatives like Thekwini Fund 20, the company is able to unlock funding that supports thousands of individuals and families on their journey to owning a home. Beyond the accolade, this recognition underscores the real impact of the work being done behind the scenes—where attention to detail and disciplined execution translate into meaningful opportunities for people across the country. As SA Home Loans celebrates this success, it remains focused on driving innovation, strengthening its financial strategies, and continuing to empower South Africans to achieve their homeownership dreams. SA Home Loans Celebrates Major Win at 2026 GBM Africa Awards

In tough economic times, it is difficult for Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) in the Early Childhood Development (ECD) space to raise sufficient funds to assist South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens.    Now, six organizations in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) - Zero2Five Trust, LETCEE, Lulamaphiko, Midlands Community College, Singakwenza and Thanda - are joining hands to create the country’s very first  Early Learning Outcomes Measure (ELOM) Community of Practice (COP) to openly share learning, expertise and data across multiple urban and rural districts including uMzinyathi, Zululand, uMkhanyakude, uMgungundlovu, uThukela and Ugu.    “What makes this collaboration unique is the spirit of openness and trust. Organisations are sharing both their successes and their challenges, creating a safe learning space where ideas, resources and innovations can move freely between programmes,” said Julika Falconer, CEO of Durban-based Zero2Five Trust.    She said it was “definitely first out of the starting blocks”  and likely to set an important precent for ECD across the country.     Falconer welcomed President Cyril Ramaposa’s State of the National Address (SONA)  commitment to elevate ECD to a core foundational education priority with plans to get all children aged zero to five into ECD structures by 2030.    However, a great deal of on-the-ground work is still needed. NPO’s deliver much of this.     “Technically, we all compete for the same funders in a tough economic landscape so we set this aside to share our best practices and tools for a common goal - to see more young children in KZN thrive. We wish to accelerate improvements in early learning outcomes by pooling expertise, resources, and data to identify, test, and disseminate practical micro-changes that can be replicated across diverse contexts. By working as a collective rather than in isolation, we aim to contribute meaningful evidence to the broader South African ECD sector,” she said.    The decision to collaborate was inspired by the findings of the Thrive by Five Index, the largest survey of preschool child outcomes ever attempted in South Africa. It measured the proportion of children aged between 50-59 months across  nine provinces to determine whether or not they were developmentally “on track” for their ages.    The findings were that 55% of South African children attending ELPs cannot do the learning tasks expected of children their age, with 28% of them falling far behind the expected standard and needing intensive intervention to catch up with their peers.   One in 18 children (5.65%) in this study showed signs of long-term malnutrition. Children between four and five regarded as ‘moderately stunted’  are five to six months behind children with normal height-for age. ‘Mildly stunted’ children are approximately 2.4 months behind.      These delays may be further compounded by social and emotional issues. Under the Social Relations with Peers and Adults category , 27.5% of children did not meet the standard. This increased to 33.4% when it comes to Emotional Readiness for School. Within a group of 20 children starting Grade R in 2023, only eight began with the right foundations in place. Eleven of these 20 children (more than half) started school already struggling.    “This   highlights the urgent need to strengthen early learning outcomes for many children. who struggle with foundational skills such as numeracy, visual motor integration and cognitive and executive development. By using the ELOM tool, the organisations are working together to better understand how children in their programmes are developing, and to test small, practical improvements – known as micro-changes – that can strengthen teaching practices and learning experiences for children,” Falconer explained.    She said the next step would be the upcoming first cross-training workshop for the programme leads and trainers of all six organisations: “The collaboration will produce a resource pack of ten low-cost learning resources made from recycled materials. Each learning resource will have suggestions for activities, covering 20 weeks. The pack will support implementation of the identified micro-changes by providing practical guidance on using each activity to strengthen numeracy, visual-motor integration (VMI), and executive functioning.”   Early Childhood Development Organisations join hands to help KZN’s most vulnerable

By: Dylan Naidoo Tata has a long-standing presence in South Africa, starting in the 90s making commercial vehicles and began making passenger cars during the mid-2000s with the Tata Indica. The Indica predominantly sat amongst the cheapest cars in South Africa, but this was not enough to resolve the dwindling sales and poor brand perception of Tata in South Africa. As such, the brand left the South African market in 2019. However, recent market shifts in South Africa have reinvigorated interest from Tata, especially the budget car and crossover market segment.   For many manufacturers, small, zippy budget cars have begun to slip out of focus, with rising prices and manufacturers shifting focus to inexpensive crossovers. This leaves budget car buyers with very limited options in South Africa. Whilst options are limited, they are not completely gone. Suzuki has committed to their Celerio and S-Presso, Renault with their Kwid, and now Tata has re-entered the South African market with their new 2026 Tata Tiago, a budget hatchback for the people.   Engineering and Technical Specifications Our model for review was the base 1.2 XM model. The Tata Tiago features a 1.2L engine ‘Revotron Engine’ that offers quick and efficient acceleration. In our testing, acceleration was decent, with the car handling better than expected and maintaining high speeds even with air-conditioning active. The 5-speed manual gearbox shifts smoothly with minimal effort, making for a good, all-round driving experience. Fuel consumption is estimated to be 5.0L/100km. Ride quality was decent for the price, with good ground clearance offering a comfortable drive over rough road. Overall, the car excels with its good ride quality and powerful engine.   In terms of technology, the car is equipped with many comfort features. Whilst the air-conditioning controls look quite familiar to those with budget cars from the mid-2010s, I actually appreciate the controls this way. Budget car buyers hold onto their cars for a long time, so the people buying this type of car do not want to feel overloaded with new styled controls. Saying this, the car features a digital speed-o-meter and gauges, and a new touchscreen infotainment screen, a welcoming change for current budget cars. The infotainment screen features physical volume controls in the form of buttons and controls on the steering wheel, so navigating the infotainment screen is rather simple. All of these elements make the driving experience enjoyable, adding many comfort features whilst also retaining simplistic driving controls.   Interior and Space For a car of this size, one of the main topics of discussion is space. I am happy to report that spacing in the Tiago is phenomenal. The roofing sits quite high, so the car can comfortably seat tall occupants. Frontal leg room is acceptable considering the car’s size and back seating is especially spacious, offering a good amount of leg room. What really surprised me was the boot space. Tata advertises a 242L boot, quite large for a small hatchback. The boot is very practical, and I appreciate that not much real estate is taken from the rest of the car to accommodate this boot.   The interior looks and feels fantastic, being made up mostly of durable plastic. The car contains dual cupholders on the sides, electric windows and a multi-usb setup. For the price, the interior and space of the car is great.   Design The design brings me back to those ‘before and after’ videos I used to watch on YouTube back in the day. Seriously, when I heard that the Tiago was the replacement for the Indica, I was in sheer disbelief. Going from the design of the old Indica to the Tiago is one of the biggest automotive glow ups I’ve seen in my life. It is a handsome looking hatchback, with a subdued design that makes the car look sleek. Grills are not too big but rather flow accordingly with the rest of the car’s design. Overall, I personally consider the Tiago to be the best-looking hatchback in its segment, a real competitor to other well-established brands.   Pricing and Overall Thoughts Pricing for the Tata Tiago starts at R189 900 for the manual base trim, and R224 900 for the automatic version. With regards to our version for testing, I think the Tiago offers a well-equipped experience with an overall decent size and fantastic design. It is a true competitor to other established South African car brands and stands out with its vibrant design and fantastic value for money.