[TOP STORY] Partnerships, not politics, seen as key to saving Johannesburg

Despite bomb squads and promises, Joburg is still falling apart and its residents have had enough. Businesses must register for energy performance certificates, or face the wrath of the law. And nostalgia, tech and collectables dominating Christmas shopping.

‘I don't care who you are or what membership card you carry. If your business doesn't perform for the department, either nationally or provincially, you will be blacklisted, and you won't be able to operate anywhere,’ says Minister of Public Works, Dean Macpherson.

An infrastructure shakeup will see underperforming and defaulting construction contractors blacklisted, according to the minister. A transformative digital learning platform launched to empower SA youth and educators with skills needed to thrive in the digital economy. And how SA’s sluggish transport system could find new momentum through digitalisation.

‘Artisans are specifically interesting because there is a big fight for artisans, so your electricians, your millwrights, coming in at number three on our top 10 critical skills list this year,’ says Marisa Jacobs, MD of Xpatweb.

SA’s critical skills crunch deepens as companies battle to fill top roles. A look at the top African destinations to invest in. And how economies of scale are driving consolidation and strategic partnerships.