Township & rural economy: A new Competition Commission report says growth is being choked by market and regulatory barriers, with many township and rural households earning under R3,500 a month and most local businesses stuck in survivalist, informal models. Climate & food security: Editorials and experts warn El Niño is no surprise and could intensify into early 2027, raising heat and cutting rainfall—pushing up pressure on water systems, farms and prices. Sasol pressure on transition: Shareholders including the IDC and PIC face scrutiny over whether Sasol’s decarbonisation plans are credible, with critics pointing to continued coal and gas reliance and concerns about transparency and health impacts. IDC role in industry: An editorial argues the IDC needs “wiggle room” to maximise industrial impact, while highlighting its high-risk, lender-of-last-resort work. Maternal deaths: Specialists say South Africa is missing its 2030 maternal mortality target, with decline too slow and key causes including infections, haemorrhage and hypertensive disorders. Organised crime & police: The Madlanga commission hears allegations that organised crime may be infiltrating institutions meant to fight it, including claims involving police. Trade & business ties: South Africa’s BRICS Business Council delegation heads to New Delhi to tackle a trade deficit with India and push higher-value exports. Consumer pressure: NielsenIQ reports Chinese brands are driving an appliance price war as South Africans stretch replacement cycles and seek value. Sports—All Blacks vs Springboks: New Zealand reshuffles for the third Test in Johannesburg as South Africa makes key changes, with rugby tourism and access issues still in the spotlight.