Global Scans · South Africa · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: Local elections in South Africa this year could see the ruling African National Congress lose control of key cities like Johannesburg and Pretoria for the first time. South Africa's economy is at risk of falling into recession and public confidence in the ANC is falling.

• [New] The Prieska Power Reserve project in the Northern Cape, supported by Germany's KfW and South Africa's IDC, aims to produce 80,000 tons of green ammonia per year by 2027, scaling to 500,000 tons by 2030. Energy Capital & Power
• [New] The Coega Green Ammonia Project near Nelson Mandela Bay, led by Hive Hydrogen South Africa, plans to deploy a 1.2 GW electrolyzer powered by 3.5 GW of renewable energy from solar and wind. Energy Capital & Power
• [New] With global markets unpredictable due to climate shocks, geopolitical tensions and disease risks, South Africa becomes more vulnerable to price spikes and supply disruptions. Farmspace
• [New] There are big dreams about providing opportunities and harnessing the potential of the vast pool of young people in South Africa, as well as across the African continent. Ediciones EL PAIS S.L.
• [New] In South Africa, water pollution is threatening the people and ecology surrounding the UmBilo river in KwaZulu Natal. Greenpeace Africa
• The BRICS alliance-comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa - is making strategic moves that could challenge the U.S. dollar's long-standing dominance. Interactive Crypto
• With several mines in South Africa (far and away the biggest platinum supplier) generating an output less than expected, demand has surged while supply has dipped. Fortune
• South Africa granted entry to 130 Palestinians without travel papers after initially barring them but said it will examine accusations that an unregistered organization arranged their trip in an irregular and irresponsible manner. Counter Extremism Project

Last updated: 06 January 2026