Stay informed with our essential overview of the key events and discussions set to shape the week in South Africa—covering developments in parliament, government, international affairs, and the economy.

Monday – 2 February 2026

• ANC National Office Bearers to Discuss Johannesburg Governance

The ANC’s national office bearers are expected to meet to consider developments in the City of Johannesburg, following the deferment of a motion of no confidence against Mayor Dada Morero. The discussions come amid recent changes to the city’s executive structure, including the creation of a deputy mayor position, which has fuelled speculation about efforts to stabilise governance and accommodate new regional leadership within the party.

Tuesday- 3 February 2026

• By-Elections to Test ANC Support in Gauteng and Western Cape

Three municipal by-elections will be held, with the ANC defending wards in Gauteng and the Western Cape. Contests will take place in Mogale City’s Ward 2, as well as Ward 4 in both Cederberg and Langeberg municipalities. The outcomes will offer a snapshot of local political dynamics and voter sentiment in the lead-up to next year’s local government elections.

Wednesday- 4 February 2026

• S&P Global to Release January PMI Data

S&P Global will publish South Africa’s Purchasing Managers’ Index for January, following the release of the Absa PMI earlier in the week. The index fell sharply to 47.7 in December from 49 in November, marking the fastest contraction in business activity since January last year. The latest reading will indicate whether weak client demand and challenging economic conditions continued to weigh on activity at the start of 2026.

Thursday – 5 February 2026

• Electricity Production and Consumption Figures to Be Released

Statistics South Africa will publish electricity production and consumption data for December, providing insight into the country’s electricity supply performance. Eskom’s energy availability factor has improved notably, averaging above 71% so far this year. However, despite a sustained and significant reduction in load-shedding, the cost of electricity remains a major concern for local industry and continues to weigh on activity.

Friday – 6 February 2026

• Reserve Bank to Publish Foreign Exchange Reserve Data

The Reserve Bank will release gross foreign exchange reserve figures for January. Reserves climbed to a record high of $75.89bn in December after four consecutive months of gains. The increase was partly driven by a rise in the value of South Africa’s gold reserves, which increased from $16.828bn to $17.493bn, supported by higher global gold prices.