Topic: South African Economy

China's bidding: Should South Africa issue a visa to the Dalai Lama?

South Africa's delay in issuing a visa to the Dalai Lama – scheduled to attend the 80th birthday bash of fellow Nobel Laureate Desmond Tutu – has created a controversy over China's growing influence.

Africa's summer of strikes

Many wonder if the Arab Spring will reach Africa, but what people should really be watching is the spread of strikes across the continent in response to rising costs, inequality, and government dissatisfaction.

Wal-Mart coming soon to an African country near you

The South African government approved Wal-Mart's controversial deal to buy local chain Massmart, opening the door to expansion throughout the continent.

Strauss-Kahn resignation: Who are his potential successors?

The International Monetary Fund’s managing director has traditionally been a European male, often a Frenchman. But with Dominique Strauss-Kahn’s resignation amid sexual assault charges, the job is available. A woman is among the leading candidates, and contenders from emerging markets may vie for the top spot. Here’s a look at the possibilities.

South Africa's new Internet cable link could bring economic boom

A new $650 million cable system connecting southern Africa with West Africa and Europe will double the capacity of South Africa's mobile phone and Internet networks.

Who are the BRICS?

The BRICS countries, five nations grouped together because of their burgeoning economies, are in the spotlight this week as their leaders meet in China.

Ivory Coast police fire live rounds to disperse protest as African Union ponders mediation

Police loyal to Ivory Coast's renegade incumbent President Laurent Gbagbo today dispersed a rally led by supporters of President-elect Alassane Ouattara.

State of the Nation: Zuma's jobs focus brings sighs of relief in South Africa

South Africa President Jacob Zuma promised a $1.2 billion fund to create jobs, but critics and supporters alike question whether his government has the capacity or will to deliver.

South Africa's truckers threaten 'devastating' strike

Inflation could spike from repeated wage hikes, economist warn, although ignoring union demands threatens to create instability in South Africa.

Small businesses still hunkering down

Some business owners retain a glimmer of hope that the worst of the recession has passed, but most are braced against another downturn, with little debt and minimal investment.

When minimum wage hurts the poor: a case study from South Africa

South Africa's unemployment crisis is worsened when companies can't afford to pay the artificially high minimum wage.

South Africa seeks value-added China investment

South African President Jacob Zuma has asked for more China investment in infrastructure, which would create new jobs amid 25 percent unemployment.

Strikes in South Africa could have long-term economic consequences

In South Africa, 1.3 million striking public service workers refuse government offers, further disrupting schools and hospitals and posing long term economic problems.

South Africa jazz great Hugh Masekela prays for peace

Many of South Africa's poorest are spreading rumors that all foreign migrant workers will be chased from their homes or killed after the World Cup. But at a concert this week, South Africa jazz great Hugh Masekela reminded South Africans of the essential humanity of their concept of ubuntu.

Lion meat burgers served at Arizona restaurant

Lion meat burgers are generating protests and controversy at an Arizona restaurant.

South Africa's Julius Malema ordered to take anger management class

South Africa's outspoken Julius Malema was fined $1,300 and ordered to attend anger management class for fomenting dissent within the African National Congress (ANC) party, and ejecting a BBC reporter from a press conference.

South Africa lions: Global financial crisis may starve lions

In South Africa, lions at SanWild Wildlife Rehabilitation Center may be have to be put to sleep if their food runs out. A drop in donations since the global financial crisis has gutted funds for the lions' food.

Signs of hope in Zimbabwe

The unity government that joined strongman Robert Mugabe with democrat Morgan Tsvangirai a year ago has lasted longer and accomplished more than many people expected. But it's in trouble, and needs a push from neighbor South Africa.

Can Jacob Zuma wrap himself in Nelson Mandela's cloak?

South Africans celebrated the 20th anniversary of Nelson Mandela's release from prison Thursday. President Jacob Zuma has strategically scheduled his State of the Union speech for the same day.

Money Daily Brief: Jobless claims rise; personal income also up

Jobless claims rose last week; personal income and expenditures increased during August.

Zuma promises 500,000 new jobs. Can he deliver?

In state of nation speech, critics say South Africa's president failed to make tough choices needed in a recession.

World

Reporters on the Job

New rival to test South Africa's ANC

The Congress of the People party officially launches on Tuesday. Its leaders – dissidents from the African National Congress – could usher in a more vibrant multiparty era.

Why I still call Zimbabwe home

Despite political and economic turmoil, the country remains a place of hope.