BRICS Diplomacy: China confirmed Xi Jinping will attend India’s BRICS summit in New Delhi on Sept 12–13, with Ramaphosa and other leaders expected as the bloc pushes resilience on food, energy, health and supply chains. Mining Watch: South Africa’s mining production fell 7.5% y/y in July, dragged by PGMs, coal and iron ore, while mineral sales also slipped as gold sales plunged. Labour & Restructuring: NUM is challenging Sibanye-Stillwater’s Kwezi shaft restructuring under section 189A, arguing government should enable smaller miners to take over instead of closures. Energy & Water: Government and Johannesburg stakeholders met to reduce water disruptions caused by power trips affecting Rand Water systems, with Eskom and City Power in the spotlight. Transport & Compliance: Hawks uncovered a R100m Mandrax lab in Erasmia producing about 800,000 tablets a day; two suspects arrested. Trade & Agriculture: South Africa secured China market access for cherry exports, opening a tariff-free early-season window. Tech & Telecom: Liquid Kenya says it’s moving beyond connectivity to add AI, cloud and cybersecurity services on its fibre backbone. Consumer Costs: Finance Minister warned motorists not to expect renewed fuel tax relief as October petrol and diesel prices are set for record highs. Skills Pipeline: TVET colleges are being urged for 2027 applications, with calls for better facilities and equipment.