Research Channel | Advanced Search - Research Channel Africa

Back NEWS

Published: 03 May 24

State-owned Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) has embarked on a ramp up of GF-class coal trains from 21 a week to 28 a week, supported by an injection of locomotives. This is part of Transnet’s recovery plan initiatives, and a commitment made to the City of uMhlathuze leadership and other stakeholders during the Stakeholder Collaboration on Truck Congestion Solutions meeting held in the Port of Richards Bay, in KwaZulu-Natal, on November 21 last year.

Enhanced regulation, law enforcement needed to combat scrap metal theft

Published: 03 May 24

Enhanced regulation and enforcement are needed to address the challenges of scrap metal theft in South Africa and potentially lift the ban on scrap metal exports, research and advisory firm Birguid analyst Noquele Dube says. She explains that the scrap metal industry contributes R15-billion to South Africa's gross domestic product and employs about 350 000 people, according to the Metals Recycling Association of South Africa (MRA).

Saudi Tadawul Group CEO Khalid Alhussan and JSE group CEO Leila Fourie

Saudi, Johannesburg stock exchanges partner to advance new instruments, market access

Published: 03 May 24

The JSE has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Saudi Tadawul Group (STG), aimed at enhancing financial market collaboration and bolstering economic ties between South Africa and Saudi Arabia. The agreement serves as a catalyst for growth, innovation and technological advancement in both markets, supported by a shared vision for future prosperity, says JSE group CEO Leila Fourie.

South African citizens voting in a previous election

Next South African government has tough reform job, Moody’s says

Published: 03 May 24

South Africa may struggle to make much more progress on resolving the country’s longstanding challenges if a coalition government emerges after elections this month, Moody’s Investors Service cautioned. “These include stimulating years of sluggish economic growth, curbing chronic power shortages and reducing very high unemployment,” said Aurelien Mali, vice president - senior credit officer at Moody’s. “The current government has made incremental progress on these issues.”

Reigniting growth in South Africa's real economy

Published: 03 May 24

Engineering News editor Terence Creamer talks about the highs and lows of South Africa's real economy in the 30 years of democracy, as well as what could be done to reignite the manufacturing sector in particular.

The above image depicts the latest trucks offered by RIZON

New Class 4, 5 vehicles optimised for net-zero emissions

Published: 03 May 24

Commercial electric truck brand RIZON, the newest brand of all-electric trucks manufactured by Daimler Truck, announced the Canadian launch of its Class 4 and 5 vehicles. The RIZON brand was presented in Canada for the first time at Truck World in Toronto, which took place from April 18 to 20 – and will be available to Canadian customers for the first time with pre-orders set to begin in June 2024.

The above image depicts one of the trucks operated by Knorr-Bremse

Braking company developing Africa presence

Published: 03 May 24

According to a report by the African Development Bank in the ‘Macroeconomic Performance and Outlook of Africa’ publication, 11 African countries featured in the world’s 20 fastest growing economies in 2023, which is why braking systems manufacturer and supplier of safety-critical subsystems for rail and commercial vehicles Knorr-Bremse sees significant growth potential on the continent. Considering the increasing likelihood of opportunities, the German company has plans to expand further into Africa.

MANUFACTURING POTENTIAL
The Biofibre Hub Project seeks to harness the potential of plant-based fibres, particularly bast and leaf fibres, to innovate in the automotive sector and beyond

Biofibre project to enhance competitiveness

Published: 03 May 24

Government economic programme Coega Development Corporation, in partnership with scientific and technology research organisation Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) have embarked on an initiative known as the Biofibre Hub Project. Positioned within the expansive 9 003 ha Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ), in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, this project seeks to harness the potential of plant-based fibres, particularly bast and leaf fibres, to innovate in the automotive sector and beyond.

An image of farm equipment working on a farm

Access to farming equipment boosts mechanisation

Published: 03 May 24

Agricultural technology company Hello Tractor, celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, aims to improve small-scale farming practices through its app Hello Tractor, which facilitates increased access to farming equipment. With a core focus on improving African agriculture through mechanisation, Hello Tractor aims to make its services more farmer-friendly, deepen its impact and expand its reach, says Hello Tractor founder and CEO Jehiel Oliver.

An image of DJI product manager Ruan Botha

Data, drones can improve local agriculture

Published: 03 May 24

Smart technology, powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and unmanned vehicles, can counter various challenges in the agricultural sector, boosting productivity, reducing costs and assisting in preserving precious resources, says drone technology company DJI product manager Ruan Botha. Innovative solutions are required for long-term sustainability and growth amid the host of challenges impacting the agriculture industry, he asserts.