Helium & Gas Drilling: D3 Energy has spudded its first well (NGT245 E) in the Nooitgedacht area of the ER315 permit in South Africa’s Free State, targeting helium and methane deliverability and supporting future production-right conversions. Skills & Entrepreneurship: TIA and the Wholesale and Retail Seta have launched a partnership to link skills development to tech innovation, incubation, internships and enterprise growth. Mining Jobs: De Beers has issued Section 189A retrenchment notices for Venetia mine workers in Limpopo, despite saying it will “support” affected employees as production is paused. Consumer Pressure: Retail trade sales rose 2.4% in May, but economists warn higher fuel and transport costs from the Iran conflict could erode disposable income. Inflation Watch: June inflation hit 5.0%, strengthening the case for another Reserve Bank rate hike. Ports & Logistics: TNPA is seeking a new private operator for the Port of Cape Town’s Duncan Dock Precinct, with a 25-year concession and throughput upgrades. Automotive Recalls: Nissan, Toyota and Lexus have issued safety recalls affecting models including the Qashqai, Land Cruiser 300 and Lexus LX600. Digital Divide: unconnected.org and Q-KON will use satellite connectivity to reach off-grid schools, clinics and remote economic hubs across Sub-Saharan Africa.