By: Dylan Naidoo As per a press release by Changan Newcastle, Changan has officially announced their plans to re-enter the South African commercial vehicle sector, under their “Changan Commercial" brand name. This move follows the brand’s entry into the South African market last year with their passenger vehicles, such as the UNI-S and Hunter K50 REEV, both cars which we have already featured and reviewed. However, this is not the brand’s first commercial rodeo into the South African market. According to Phuti Mpyane from BusinessDay, Changan first entered the South African market in 2007, under the “Chana” brand nameplate for their vehicles. The Chana brand made micro light commercial vehicles (LCVs) catered directly at SMEs (Small Medium Enterprises), offering affordable transportation solutions for budget-conscious business owners. Under the Chana name, the brand released the Benni hatchback, marking the brand’s first passenger car in the country. Chana however, fell into bankruptcy and left the South African market in 2012. However, the brand will now be re-entering the South African market after a 14-year hiatus, According to Changan, the re-entry into the commercial market is driven by the increasing demand for accessible transportation solutions, especially in South Africa’s SME sector. The rollout is being handled by Changan’s distributor, Jameel Motors South Africa. Country Manager of Jameel Motors South Africa, Marinus Venter, expressed his interest into growing Changan Commercial in South Africa: “Chana built a strong reputation in South Africa as a trusted partner for small and medium-sized enterprises. With Changan Commercial, we are building on that legacy by reintroducing a product that is proven, trusted and ready to support a new generation of South African businesses.” When going onto Changan’s website, we can see a commercial section has been added under the vehicle list. The link takes us to their new commercial page, with their LCV platform supporting a variety of body styles, including a single and double cab micro dropside, box body, panel van and minivan layout. Changan acknowledges that these new commercial vehicles will be backed by their 5-year/200 000km manufacturer warranty, giving SMEs peace of mind for product reliability and durability. Changan, in fact, focuses on this point rigorously, mentioning their partnership with other micro-LCV maker Suzuki and further detailing their expertise in the field, especially since they began operations in 1984. Changan also notes that their Chana vehicles have become rather well-known in the South African market, stating that they have sold 8456 vehicles during the time. Impact on KZN KZN SMEs should be on the lookout for Changan’s new LCV offerings. Building upon their successful partnerships, generous service plans and reliability focus, these new offerings could potentially be a great buy for KZN-based businesses. Especially considering Changan’s pricing angle for their passenger cars, being positioned as more affordable options whilst still offering solid features at that price point. Even in our reviews, Changan’s vehicles have been amongst some of our favourite brands to test. As such, we are expecting Changan’s new LCVs to potentially undercut Suzuki’s already highly affordable offerings such as the Ecco and Super Carry. Changan LCV Single Cab dropside

By Chelsea Brand KwaZulu-Natal’s manufacturing sector remains one of the province’s most important economic engines, but navigating the current environment requires more than increasing production or securing finance. It requires stronger relationships, meaningful networks and an understanding of the challenges businesses face. From left: Kaya Ngqaka, COO of Dube TradePort Corporation; Takatso Sello, Senior Manager: Manufacturing Sector at Nedbank; Shane Naidoo, Treasury and Trade Management at Nedbank; and Justice Matarutse, Senior Economist at Spatial Econ This was a central theme at a recent Nedbank manufacturing-sector networking and CEO breakfast, hosted at Mount Edgecombe Country Club Estate, which brought together business leaders and manufacturers to discuss the sector’s contribution to the KwaZulu-Natal economy and how financial institutions can support sustainable growth. Speaking at the event, Takatso Sello, Senior Manager in the Manufacturing Sector at Nedbank, emphasised that the discussion was deliberately focused on solutions rather than simply highlighting what is going wrong. “The sector is not doing so well,” Takatso acknowledged, but said the more important question was what could be done to make it work. A sector under pressure The need for this approach is underscored by the scale of KwaZulu-Natal’s manufacturing economy. The province recorded exports of R315.6 billion in 2025 against imports of R214.8 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of R100.8 billion. With two major seaports and approximately 80% of South Africa’s cargo passing through the province, KZN remains strategically important to the national industrial and export economy. Yet the outlook remains challenging. Manufacturing production declined by 4.3% year-on-year in May 2026, while Nedbank’s 2026 forecast puts manufacturing growth at -1.4%. Against this backdrop, diversification and resilience are increasingly important. One significant opportunity is the province’s “scalable middle” – a R62.3 billion collection of manufacturing opportunities spanning 151 product groups. Rather than establishing entirely new industries, the opportunity lies in expanding businesses and value chains that already have commercial momentum. This could strengthen local supply chains, create employment and reduce the province’s vulnerability to global disruptions. Greater local sourcing is particularly important given KZN’s dependence on imported inputs, where disruption to one critical component can affect an entire production process. Relationships that create results For Takatso, however, unlocking this potential requires more than putting businesses in a room together. The breakfast was deliberately focused, with participants selected through Nedbank’s frontline teams rather than simply opening the invitation to a large audience. The intention was to bring together people with whom there could be genuine follow-up and measurable impact. Understanding a business, its challenges and its ambitions creates the foundation for more productive conversations – and this is where the role of financial institutions can extend beyond simply providing funding. For a small manufacturer, winning a major contract can itself create financial pressure. The business may need to purchase machinery, increase stock, employ additional staff or obtain certification before receiving payment. Without suitable working capital or asset finance, an opportunity that could transform the business may be impossible to fulfil. Nedbank’s manufacturing offering includes finance for machinery and equipment, factory expansion and working capital, while its broader SME offering includes overdrafts, invoice discounting and asset finance. The principle is that finance should be aligned with the commercial purpose behind the investment. But Takatso believes businesses should engage their financial partners before a crisis occurs. By understanding the business journey early, financial institutions can have more proactive conversations and potentially identify solutions before challenges become urgent. “You are human before we are bankers” This people-centric approach was one of the strongest themes to emerge from the discussion. The comment reflects the importance of recognising the people behind the balance sheets and business statistics. A manufacturer may have secured orders while dealing with delayed payments, rising costs and difficult decisions about which expenses can be postponed. These pressures can affect employees, suppliers and families well beyond the business itself. A financial partner that understands this context can provide more than a financial product. It can offer advice, connections and solutions built on an established relationship. The same philosophy extends to the wider manufacturing community. Takatso emphasised that no successful individual or business achieves growth entirely alone. For KwaZulu-Natal, this points towards a more interconnected manufacturing ecosystem: large manufacturers providing demand and technical requirements, SMEs contributing specialist capabilities and agility, infrastructure enabling production and logistics, export markets creating opportunities, and financial institutions providing the capital needed to connect these elements. KwaZulu-Natal already has the industrial foundations required to build this future. Its challenge is to make the manufacturing economy more diversified, resilient and competitive while ensuring businesses of different sizes can access the finance, markets, infrastructure and networks they need. The Nedbank breakfast offered a reminder that achieving this will not happen through finance alone. It will require collaboration, practical solutions and relationships that extend beyond the networking event. For Takatso, the objective is simple: identify what works, find solutions and apply them. In a manufacturing environment facing significant pressure, that approach could prove just as important as the capital itself.

By: Dylan Naidoo Like what you see? Click on this image to read the brochure What Suzuki has managed to do in the South African market is something that many new and upcoming car manufacturers can only dream of achieving. From becoming the new brand in the market, all the way to now ranked second in the best-selling cars in South Africa. Through effective marketing, clever pricing structures, innovative technologies and catering to most car buyers' needs, it comes at no surprise why Suzuki is doing so well. Going up against the giant that is the Polo Vivo, the Suzuki Swift has effectively become the new go-to hatchback to get things done. And now with the growing hybrid segment, Suzuki is fighting back with their new mid-sized crossover “mild hybrid”, the Suzuki Across GLX, our car for review. Engineering and Technology Suzuki's 1.5l NA Engine Our model for review is the top-of-the-line GLX version, featuring Suzuki’s naturally aspirated (NA) 4 cylinder, 1.5L paired with a hybrid power system, with the new engines being dubbed the “K15C” according to Cars.co.za. The engine itself delivers 76kW of power and 137NM of torque, paired with a 12V hybrid system. offering up to 2.2W and 55NM for brief periods, according to Cars.co.za. The Across is available in both a 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic, with the automatic variant being paired with gear paddles. Suzuki also claims a 5.3L/100km fuel economy. In our testing, the engine could use a little more power, but for the everyday commute, I think it is sufficient. It would be welcome to see Suzuki utilise their turbocharged 1.4L found in the Swift Sport a bit more. Fuel efficiency in our testing reflected around 6.3L/100km, so not vastly far off from Suzuki’s claims. Suzuki Across Infotainment system Technology-wise, Suzuki continues to push innovation as always, with the Across featuring a large touchscreen 10.1 infotainment system paired with both front and rear cameras, with the GLX model featuring a full-view surround camera. The infotainment system is paired to an 8-way Harman Infinity sound system, delivering a decent amount of sound. The car also features cruise control as standard, as well as keyless entry and a digital gauge cluster, all very impressive technologies on display. And with 6-airbags as standard, you can have peace of mind and drive with confidence, especially since the Across is backed by Suzuki’s standard 5-year/ 200,000km warranty and 4-year/60,000km service plan. As noted by Cars.co.za, the Across also contains many other convenient features, such as a wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay with a wireless charging pad and automatic climate control, all wonderful elements to see in this decently priced family crossover. Design I was quite taken back by this car. I mean this, but I really think this is Suzuki’s best-looking car yet. Its sleek front end is matched perfectly by the distinct design lines for the rest of the car. And those rear lights are a very nice touch. Yeah, we saw what you did there Suzuki, “Across” as in the lights go across the rear, very funny. Overall, I love the look. It really looks good, and the interior matches the car spectacularly! No really, Suzuki has upped their game in recent years with the interior. The interior features a gorgeous design, with the seats wrapped in a comfortable synthetic leather (for the GLX trim) that matches the car’s premium feeling. Interior and Spacing Suzuki Across Interior The interior of the Across seems to be much larger than its Grand Vitara sibling, with the seats featuring a comfortable synthetic leather, however, this is only available with the GLX variant. Something else exclusive to our GLX variant is the leather wrapped steering wheel, as opposed to the polyurethane used in the other variants, as well as the sunroof, a nice feature to see. Seats are comfy, breathable, and offer a great amount of both head and legroom. Even through some of Durban’s famous rough roads, the ride stayed moderately decent. As for boot capacity, our model features a 333l boot size, which is adequate for the car size. In real world testing, the boot is quite large, and the back seats can be folded to reveal much larger boot space, perfectly capable of carrying much bigger loads. Pricing and Overall Thoughts Pricing for the Suzuki Across starts at a strong R349,900, with the highest GLX trim at R464.900. However, for that entry price point, you are getting a decent amount of car for the money. The Suzuki Across really does do a lot of the right things, and I think this car is close to being pretty enticing at the price point. Suzuki is dominating in the South African market, and it all comes down to them bringing luxurious cars like the Across to the masses. Suzuki Across GLX Find out more on Suzuki's current line up through this link: https://www.suzukiauto.co.za/

By: Dylan Naidoo Following the roll-out of the all-new 9th-generation Toyota Hilux, the double cab-variant of the new Hilux was the first of its kind to roll-off the assembly line. This was a grand milestone. Not only did it signify Toyota’s reliance on the KZN province but also emphasised KZN as the central hub for distributing the popular bakkies across both Africa and Europe. In addition, according to Denis Droppa from BusinessDay, the Hilux remains South Africa’s bestselling vehicle. And now, after a bit of a wait, the new single cab variant of the 9th-gen Hilux has finally arrived. Unlike its double cab variant, the single cab Hilux, just like its predecessors, is positioned as a more utilitarian work truck aimed directly at heavy workloads and long-distance driving. Building upon its world-class durability and reliability, Toyota continues to pair this Hilux with the 2.8L GD-6 diesel engine sitting on the continuing IMV Hilux platform utilising a ladder-frame chassis purposely built for heavy payloads and towing. As of now, the single cab variant of the Hilux is only available in the “SRX” trim, in both 4x4 and 4x2 trims, starting at R587,200. We should also note that these trims are only available in an automatic transmission. However, with the aggressive push of the 9th generation Hilux, we should quickly see the “Raider” and “SR” variants of the Hilux Single Cab eventually move to the new body style very soon. This is also the case with the smaller diesel engines, as reported by Jason Woosey from IOL News, explaining that the smaller 2.4L diesel engine should be paired soon to the 9th generation Hilux, along with the manual transmission. Interestingly, the load capacity of the new Hilux is not mentioned on Toyota’s site. However, Jason Woosey from IOL does mention that the load capacity for the 4x2 model is 845Kg, and 920Kg for the 4x4 variant. What is mentioned by Toyota is the tow capacity, rated at 3500Kg for the 4x4 variant and 2800kg for the 4x2 variant, however, these are specifically for braked tow loads. As usual with the Hilux, the bakkie features advanced safety aids that has proven its reliability and dependability over the years. These include an array of airbags, braking assist, ABS and EBD, as well as a hill-assist feature. The limited slip differential (LSD) is available for certain Hilux models. Proudly built in South Africa, the 9th generation single cab Toyota Hilux marks the Durban-built bakkie’s next evolution into the workforce. With updated looks, the bakkie remains true to its origins as a Toyota built bakkie designed to combat tough terrain and heavy loads. After all, it's not a bakkie, it's a Hilux. The new 9th Generation Toyota Hilux Single-Cab. Image by Toyota South African Motors

By: Ethekwini Municipality In celebration of Women’s Month, eThekwini Municipality will host the Women in Maskandi Festival Auditions this weekend at the Stable Theatre in Durban, giving women a platform to break into a genre that has historically been male dominated. The auditions take place on Saturday, 22 August and Sunday, 23 August 2026 from 09h00 to 16h00 at the Stable Theatre, 115 Johannes Nkosi Street, Durban. Hosted by the Municipality’s Recreation and Parks Directorate, the auditions are open to female Maskandi musicians and singers, as well as amagidangoma and omasigida, aged between 18 and 35. Performances will be adjudicated by a panel of respected names in the genre – Phuzekhemisi, Dr Buselaphi, Talent Mbatha and Zimdollar – who will be looking for musical talent, originality, dance, stage presence and potential for growth. Maskandi music continues to play an important role in telling stories, preserving traditions and giving communities a powerful voice. Through this initiative, the Municipality seeks to encourage greater participation by women in the genre, and to create pathways for emerging female musicians to develop their skills, gain exposure and access further opportunities within the entertainment industry. Women with a passion for Maskandi are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to showcase their voices, musical abilities and creativity. Those attending are welcome to bring their own musical instruments to accompany their performances and demonstrate their individual style. The initiative forms part of eThekwini Municipality’s Women’s Month activities, which seek to celebrate women’s achievements, promote gender inclusion and create platforms that empower women to participate meaningfully in the cultural and creative economy. Prospective participants can contact Noma Mzimela on 031 322 0050 or email noma.mzimela@durban.gov.za for further information. Women in Maskandi

By: Wandile Dumakude: Head of Distribution | The Unlimited South Africa’s unemployment crisis continues to hit women hardest. In the second quarter of 2026, the official unemployment rate for women stood at 37.5%, compared with 30.3% for men. Against that backdrop, creating more ways for women to participate in the economy matters, and entrepreneurship is one of them. Wandile Dumakude, Head of Distribution at The Unlimited, has spent almost a decade working alongside entrepreneurs building their own businesses through the company's Ownership Development Programme. Over that time, he's seen a significant shift. Today, one in three Franchise Owners at The Unlimited is a woman. “Ten or fifteen years ago, the picture looked very different,” says Dumakude. “There were only a handful of women in a largely male environment. Today, we're seeing more women step forward and build businesses of their own — and they're doing it with confidence.” Through working alongside these entrepreneurs, Dumakude says four qualities repeatedly stand out among women who succeed in turning individual performance into businesses and teams that can grow. 1. They communicate well At The Unlimited, direct sales is how we take our products to customers. And, in this business, listening is as important as speaking. You need to understand the customer in front of you, communicate clearly and build trust. Those skills become even more important as a business grows, when an entrepreneur moves from making sales herself to teaching, training and leading others. Strong communication helps turn individual performance into a team that can perform too. 2. They lead with empathy Direct sales are hard. Rejection is part of the job, and there will be difficult weeks. As a business owner, you need to understand what the people in your team are going through while still helping them learn, improve and keep moving. Empathy matters because it allows a leader to support people without lowering the standard expected of them. 3. They build strong relationships Building a relationship with a customer might help make a sale, but building a business takes much more than that. It means earning trust, developing people and creating a team that can grow with you. You can be an excellent salesperson, but if you want to build a business, you’ve got to learn how to build people too. That shift from individual success to developing others is critical to long-term growth. 4. They play the long game Building a successful business takes time. There are very few overnight successes, and the journey is rarely a straight line. Playing the long game means understanding that the work you put in today may only pay off further down the road. It means staying committed through slower periods, learning from setbacks and continuing to build even when the results aren't immediate. In entrepreneurship, long-term thinking isn't about waiting for success. For Dumakude, these qualities aren't just personality traits; they're the foundation of good business. “Communication builds trust, empathy builds teams, relationships build businesses, and discipline keeps people building even when results are slow to show.” “Now, more than ever, I believe women deserve to be celebrated. Women’s Month gives us an opportunity to recognise their achievements, but it’s also a reminder of how much harder many women still have to work to access economic opportunity,” says Dumakude. "What excites me, though, is seeing more women step forward, back themselves and build something of their own. They're building businesses, creating opportunities and changing what's possible for themselves, their families and the people around them. That's something worth celebrating, not just during Women's Month, but every day."

The 2025 Suzuki Jimny 5-door has garnered significant attention in the automotive world, earning praise for its exceptional off-road abilities, distinctive rugged charm, and increased practicality due to its expanded cabin space and additional doors. Despite these advantages, some reviewers note that the vehicle's on-road refinement falls short, with a less impressive engine and occasional instability at higher speeds. Real-World Experiences and Popularity Throughout the past week, I had the opportunity to drive the Suzuki Jimny 5-door and observe how it is received in everyday settings. Although it may not suit everyone's preferences, its appeal is broader than many might expect. When I brought the car home, my tenants were immediately drawn to it; for some, the Jimny is the ultimate dream car, symbolising aspiration and admiration. This sentiment was shared by both individuals and couples, highlighting the vehicle's diverse fan base. Attracting Attention Across Demographics My experiences extended beyond the home environment. I took the Jimny to various places, including the KZN Top Business Women event at the Radisson's Durban Umhlanga. The car consistently attracted attention in public spaces, particularly among women, who were notably impressed by its design and character. While the Jimny's four-door configuration and strong off-road capabilities are often emphasised, its true appeal seems to lie in its ability to connect with a wide range of admirers, regardless of technical specifications. Personal Testimonials The Jimny's popularity was further underscored when my daughter arrived from Cape Town for the KZN Top Business Women event. She was instantly captivated, declaring the Jimny to be her dream car. This personal endorsement, especially from successful women and professionals, reinforces the idea that the Jimny holds a unique allure that resonates strongly with many, particularly women. Conclusion In summary, the 2025 Suzuki Jimny 5-door stands out for its unmatched off-road capability, rugged appeal, and practical enhancements. While it may not be the most refined choice for highway driving, its charm and desirability are clear, extending beyond technical features to connect emotionally with a broad spectrum of individuals. The Jimny's intangible qualities make it a highly sought-after vehicle, admired by many for reasons that go beyond mere specifications. The 2025 Suzuki Jimny 5-Door: A Comprehensive Review - Grant Adlam

By: Dylan Naidoo Like what you see? Click this image to read the brochure The updated Renault Kiger is finally here in South Africa, bringing with it updated styling and new features. The Kiger has already well-established itself in South Africa as an affordable, sub-compact crossover. The new Kiger turbocharged variants, however, provide a noticeable jump in power over the naturally aspirated (NA) variant, now positioning the Kiger on par with the Fronx and the Tiggo4 Pro/Cross. And it is this turbocharged “Iconic” variant that Grant Adlam and I would get to test out. The subcompact car market The Renault Kiger is entering a very competitive market in which nearly every major automaker in South Africa competes: a market consisting of affordable, subcompact crossovers. Currently, Chery leads the charge with their incredibly successful Tiggo4 Pro, whilst Suzuki treads in tenth place with their Fronx, according to Michael Taylor from Top Auto. We don’t even need to mention a slew of other car brands, such as Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, Toyota and even Citroen, all battling it out to build a solid subcompact crossover for under R350k. As such, whilst the new Kiger has got a fresh look and beefier muscles, whether it sells well depends heavily on how it takes on this fierce competition. Engineering & Technology Whilst Renault decided to continue using their efficient 1.0L engine, this turbocharged variant delivers 74kW of power and 160Nm of torque. The power is okay, nearly matching the Suzuki Fronx. The car does feature multiple driving modes: eco, normal and sport. This engine is paired with a CVT transmission, however, manual variants of the 1.0l turbo are also available. Ride height is also a tad bit high, measuring at 205mm of ground clearance. Entering the Kiger, you will find yourself quite taken back by the automatic lock and unlock of the doors, which in our testing, tended to be very consistent. At the heart of the Kiger you will find the 8-inch infotainment screen that is paired with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay. The viewing angles of the screen are acceptable, and the size is perfect. We also got a surprisingly great speaker system on board delivering outstanding sound with great clarity and decent bass. The car’s features include a digital gauge cluster and multiple USB ports in the front. Your usual safety features are onboard, including six-airbags, ESC, and your multi-view camera that you get with our trim. Design, Interior & Space Renault describes the new Kiger as having an “athletic body” that encompasses Renault’s new design language, and I personally like it. I think online images don’t do this car justice, as the new Kiger does look very good. Clear rear-lights in the back is truly something I long for more cars to use, it just looks so good. Personally, I didn’t really like the look of the previous Kiger and much prefer this updated look. The design is more on the busy side, but overall it's still something that will catch your eye. The interior is quite a positive for this car. There is that funky Renault styling but this time made with leather upholstery for the Iconic trim, making the seats feel soft, premium and comfortable. Seats offer great back support and come fully adjustable. As for other interior features, for the Iconic variants you also have your leather-wrapped steering wheel with physical infotainment controls, and adjustable climate control utilising physical controls. Space is a big plus for the Renault. The boot is rated at a large 405l boot capacity, and we could see that. Interior legroom and headroom is acceptable. Price & Overall Thoughts Pricing of this Renault Kiger 1.0T Iconic begins at R329,999, however, lower trim, Naturally Aspirated versions of the Kiger start at R220,000. What I will say is that even though there are more competitively priced alternatives in the market, the Kiger holds its own. It’s a great, run around little crossover that offers a great blend of comfort, sportiness and overall value. Renault Kiger 1.0T

By: Ethekwini Municipality President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended eThekwini Municipality for successfully hosting the 46th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit, reaffirming Durban's status as a premier destination for major international events. Held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre from 3 to 17 August 2026, the summit brought together Heads of State and Government, ministers, delegates, media representatives, and invited guests from across the region under the theme: "Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World." The President's acknowledgment underscores the City's ability to host high-profile international gatherings while delivering a safe, seamless, and world-class experience. Working closely with law enforcement agencies and key stakeholders, the City ensured the summit was conducted safely and without incident, providing a secure environment for all participants. As SADC's highest decision-making structure, the Summit sets the strategic direction for regional cooperation, integration, and development. The regional bloc comprises 16 member states and represents a population of more than 400 million people. South Africa officially assumed the SADC Chairship for a one-year term during the summit, with President Ramaphosa taking over from Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Reflecting on the significance of the gathering, President Ramaphosa reminded delegates that Durban occupies a special place in Africa's history. “It was in Durban, 24 years ago, that the African Union was officially launched, marking the continent's transition from the struggle against colonialism and apartheid towards deeper cooperation, integration, and development,” he said. The eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, said the City's selection as host demonstrates growing confidence in Durban's capabilities as a globally competitive destination. "Hosting SADC was about more than delivering a successful event. It stimulated local economic activity, strengthened regional partnerships, and enhanced eThekwini's profile as a destination for tourism, trade, and investment," said Xaba. The summit programme included several key engagements across the city, including SADC Industrialisation Week, a public lecture by President Ramaphosa, and a wreath-laying ceremony in honour of struggle stalwart Oliver Reginald Tambo. The ceremony paid tribute to Tambo's enduring legacy and reaffirmed the values of freedom, democracy, and African unity that he championed throughout his life. South African President Cyril Ramaphose commenced the 46th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit in Durban

By: Dylan Naidoo Members of the media were invited to Dunlop South Africa (SA)’s plant in uMnambithi (formally Ladysmith) on 13 August 2026 for the announcement for the completion of a R1.7 billion investment to the manufacturing plant in KZN. The main aim of this investment is quoted to deliver new world-class technology to the facility. There has been a growing demand in the crossover and SUV segment in South Africa, and it should be no surprise for Dunlop to be investing into new tyre technology to meet the growing needs of the public. These new tyres are expected to be exported inside South Africa and across the African continent, repositioning the facility as a hub for “automotive growth” across the African region. This three-year investment is backed by Dunlop SA’s parent company, Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI) of Japan, with the goal of advancing technologies to accommodate the next generation of vehicles to hit the roads of Africa. What vehicles will the investment help with The investment by Dunlop is strategically positioned to accommodate the advanced tyre technology for high-quality passenger vehicles, SUVs and light trucks. Whilst Dunlop mentions this will aid with vehicles such as the Toyota Land Cruiser, we could expect Toyota’s commercial brand, Hino, to adopt these new tyres for their light trucks, as well as other brands following suit. This investment will also strengthen South Africa’s position in the automotive space. President and CEO of Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Yasuaki Kuniyasu, made a statement at the announcement, reflecting on their long-term commitment towards South Africa. "Dunlop is a brand that is built on a long history and deep trust, and it represents our mission to deliver safe, high-quality tyres to customers around the globe. Within our global strategy, our business in South Africa holds a very important place. Here, the automotive industry is one of the key industries that supports the nation's economy and employment. To take part in that industry means a great deal to us. As a tyre maker rooted in this region, supplying high-quality tyres reliably to our OE customers is both our responsibility and our great pride,” said Kuniyasu. He continued by explaining that this investment reinforces relations between South Africa and Japan, as well as the continued confidence in South Africa as a manufacturing partner. South Africa’s National Minister of Trade, Parks Tau, eagerly welcomed the investment. “Thank you to Sumitomo Rubber Industries for continuing to bet on this country. This plant does not stand alone. It sits at the centre of South Africa’s automotive value chain, supplying original equipment partners that include Toyota, Isuzu, Ford, Volkswagen and Nissan. A R1,7 billion investment in local manufacturing is sustained by a fair and level playing field, and the government understands that building that playing field is our collective responsibility.” The new technology in uMnambithi Dunlop claims that the new mixture for the tyre compound utilises a new curing technology, which enables to bring this new manufacturing plant in line with current standards. Dunlop further claims that this new compound is expected to provide enhanced temperature control, which enables more reliable and durable tyres. KZN MEC Musa Zondi commented on the investment: “This is the type of investment that demonstrates the value of strong public private partnerships in driving economic growth, strengthening local manufacturing and supporting jobs and livelihoods, and positions our province as a competitive destination for investment.” Benefits of the Investment One of the major factors of this investment is that it brings a number of benefits to both manufacturing and the future of vehicles. These include: The new mixer technology enables better compound performance at a more efficient energy consumption. The new low resistant tyres ensure vehicle manufacturers meet future emission and efficiency requirements. Lubin Ozoux, CEO of Dunlop Tyres South Africa, explains that this investment is expected to strengthen the economy of uMnambithi, whilst also strengthening local business and contributing to long-term economic growth. Dunlop currently has a brand presence spanning 23 different African countries and anticipates that this investment will expand their footprint in these countries even more. This investment is solely beneficial for South Africa only, but also for KZN, as this investment further solidifies KZN’s position as a vital player in the manufacturing market. Trusted by brands such as Toyota, Mahindra and Dunlop, the KZN region shows great potential in automotive manufacturing. Department of Trade Industry Competition (DTIC) tours the Dunlop factory Visit Dunlop's website here: https://www.dunloptyres.co.za/

Press Release Johannesburg, South Africa – 17 August 2026 - South Africa is seeing a marked rise in civil debt litigation, with new case data pointing to sharply higher volumes of default judgments, consent orders and summonses for consumer debt. Hammond Pole Attorneys, a full-service law firm with litigation and debt recovery teams acting for both creditors and consumers, says the trend reflects mounting financial pressure on households and highlights a common area of confusion that can materially affect the outcome of a case. A household sector under sustained strain The rise in litigation sits against a backdrop of steadily increasing household debt. According to South African Reserve Bank Quarterly Bulletin data, the ratio of household debt to disposable income rose to 62.2% in the first quarter of 2026, up from 61.8% in the previous quarter, while the cost of servicing that debt held at 8.4% of disposable income. Household credit growth also picked up over the same period, rising from 4.6% to 4.7%, as earlier interest rate cuts continued to support borrowing. Elandri Brecher, an attorney at Hammond Pole, says that the growing debt burden is now translating into court activity: “Statistics South Africa data shows civil debt judgments rose 13.6% year-on-year between May 2025 and May 2026, while civil summonses for debt increased 6% over the same period, from 31,182 to 33,066.” She says that month-on-month figures were sharper still, with civil summonses up 20.18% between April and May 2026, and the value of civil defaults and consent judgments for debt surpassing R369 million in May. “This is a 36% increase on the month before,” says Brecher. The human cost behind the numbers Brecher says that the court statistics are consistent with wider consumer research. DebtBusters’ 2026 Money-Stress Tracker, which surveyed around 18,000 respondents, found that 72% reported experiencing money stress this year, reversing a decline from a 2023 peak of 78%, while stress specifically linked to home life reached 42%, the highest level recorded since the tracker began in 2022. The same research found that more than half of respondents now spend over 40% of their take-home pay on debt repayments, and that consumers earning more than R35,000 a month are using around 85% of their income to service debt. Arrears versus total exposure: why the distinction matters One of the most persistent points of confusion in debt litigation is the difference between arrears - the missed or overdue payments on an account, and the outstanding balance, which is the full amount still owed under the agreement. One of the most persistent points of confusion in credit litigation is the difference between the arrears on an account and the total outstanding balance. Arrears are the instalments or payments that have fallen due but remain unpaid, while the outstanding balance is the total amount still owing under the credit agreement. The distinction is important because the amount required to remedy a default is not necessarily the same as the creditor's total contractual exposure. Depending on the type of credit agreement, its terms, the stage of enforcement proceedings and the provisions of the National Credit Act, a consumer may in certain circumstances be able to remedy a default without immediately settling the entire outstanding balance. Conversely, once the requirements for enforcement and acceleration have been met, a credit provider may be entitled to claim the full accelerated balance. Brecher says that this distinction has real consequences: “Consumers often see a total outstanding balance in correspondence or court papers and assume that this is the amount they must immediately pay to cure the default. That is not always the case. Equally, consumers should not assume that paying only the arrears will automatically end legal proceedings. The position depends on the credit agreement, the stage of enforcement and the rights available under the National Credit Act.” Brecher has tips for both consumers and creditors: For consumers: Don't ignore a letter of demand or summons - respond within the stipulated timeframes. Establish whether the claim reflects arrears or the full outstanding balance, and query it if unclear. “Seek advice on available options, which may include a payment arrangement or, where legally available and appropriate, debt review.” Seek legal advice early - reinstating an agreement is often easier before judgment than after. For creditors: Ensure pleadings and supporting documentation clearly and accurately identify the arrears, total outstanding balance and basis upon which the amount claimed has become due and payable. Maintain clear, well-documented records of default and communication with debtors. Consider early engagement and settlement options to reduce litigation costs and delays. Work with legal counsel to ensure claims are correctly particularized and compliant with the National Credit Act. About Hammond Pole Attorneys Hammond Pole Attorneys is a full-service South African law firm established in 1981. With offices in Boksburg, Alberton, Fourways and Pretoria, the firm provides legal services across litigation, debt recovery and debt review, property and conveyancing, family law, commercial and contractual law, and wills and deceased estates. Hammond Pole combines specialist legal expertise with technology-driven legal processes and is a multiple winner of the Best Law Firm category in the Best of Ekurhuleni Readers’ Choice Awards. The firm is proudly Level 2 B-BBEE compliant and operates under its longstanding commitment: Serious About Service. For more information: Samantha Hogg-Brandjes | GinjaNinja | samantha@ginjaninja.co.za | +27-84-458-4857

By: Super Tyres The tyre industry has traditionally been male dominated, but that landscape is changing. At Super Tyres, one woman is proving that strong leadership, commercial experience and the ability to deliver results can cross industry boundaries. Nytanya Loretz is General Manager of the Super Tyres group, a multi-brand retail operation trading under Super Tyres, BestDrive, Dunlop Zone and Hi-Q across KwaZulu-Natal. Her role spans sales, operations, finance, systems and marketing, with Nytanya reporting directly to the Managing Director. Her days can take her from a branch sales review to a systems build or national marketing campaign, often all before lunch. Yet while her current role sits firmly within the tyre industry, her career journey began elsewhere. Nytanya joined the tyre industry just over a year ago, following 14 years in IT, including three years as an Operational Director. Before that, she worked as a Regional Sales Manager in the waste industry. Across three very different sectors, one common thread has remained: she has built her career in traditionally male-dominated environments. “As a woman who has always been in male-dominated industries, I have always had to work hard to prove myself by focusing on my performance and producing results,” she says. “Consistently delivering high results often cannot be argued with.” That approach has served her well in her transition into an entirely new industry. For Nytanya, one of her proudest achievements in her role at Super Tyres has not been a particular deal or campaign, but the ability to make an immediate contribution despite being new to the industry. “The biggest achievement has been coming into a new industry and being able to add value immediately, based on all the knowledge I have built up over the years in compliance, operational management, marketing and sales,” she says. Her experience is a reminder that effective leadership is not necessarily industry specific. The operational discipline, compliance knowledge, commercial understanding and management experience developed over a career can be applied in new environments, bringing a fresh perspective and different skill set to the table. Nytanya also believes that the landscape for women in leadership continues to evolve. “In all industries, women have risen to the occasion when put to the test,” she says. While she may now be helping to lead the Super Tyres group, Nytanya is quick to acknowledge the women who came before her and the strong foundations on which the business has been built. Super Tyres was co-founded by Jocelyn Horn, whose influence remains part of the company’s heritage. One of the business principles associated with Jocelyn continues to resonate today: “If you take care of the cents, the rands look after themselves.” “I stand on the shoulders of women who did this work before I ever walked through the door,” says Nytanya. “Jocelyn built the foundation, and our women in leadership keep it standing every single day.” For young women aspiring to leadership or business ownership, Nytanya’s advice is simple: “Stay focused on your goals, have a growth mindset, and always take up every opportunity to learn. It will stand you in good stead.” Her own career journey is perhaps the best example of that philosophy in action. Moving from IT and waste management into the tyre industry, Nytanya has demonstrated that leadership is not limited by where a career begins. The skills, knowledge and experience gained along the way can open doors to entirely new opportunities. As Women’s Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the contribution of women across industries and professions, stories such as Nytanya’s highlight the growing role women are playing in leadership, while also recognising the women who helped pave the way before them. Nytanya Loretz | General Manager of The Super Tyres Group