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 – 26 January 2026

• ANC NEC Lekgotla Concludes with Focus on Local Government Elections

The ANC’s national executive committee concludes its three-day Lekgotla in Boksburg, where senior party leaders have been working to translate the six priorities outlined in the January 8 statement into a detailed programme for the year ahead. Discussions have centred on organisational renewal, governance challenges and preparations for the local government elections expected in November, which are viewed as a critical test for the party’s electoral standing.

Tuesday- 27 January 2026

• Producer Price Inflation Data to Gauge Upstream Cost Pressures

Producer price inflation data for December will be released, with analysts expecting price pressures to remain contained. PPI inflation is forecast to hold steady at 2.9% year on year, with food and fuel continuing to shape the headline outcome. Elevated meat prices linked to foot-and-mouth disease are likely to be partly offset by softer pricing in other food categories, supported by favourable weather, lower logistics costs and a firmer rand. Fuel prices rose during the month, narrowing year-on-year declines, but not enough to materially alter the broader inflation trend.

Wednesday- 28 January 2026

• Cabinet Lekgotla to Set Policy Direction for the Year Ahead

The first biannual Cabinet Lekgotla will get under way, bringing together ministers, deputy ministers and directors-general for a two-day planning session. The meeting will focus on aligning priorities across the executive, including efforts to consolidate governing party and coalition commitments into coherent government policy. Key themes on the agenda include economic strategy, foreign policy and preparations for the local government elections.

Thursday – 29 January 2026

• Reserve Bank Interest Rate Decision in Focus

The Reserve Bank’s monetary policy committee will announce its interest rate decision, with the repo rate widely expected to be left unchanged at 6.75%. The decision would extend the current pause in the easing cycle as policymakers balance easing inflation risks against price levels that remain above the Bank’s 3% midpoint target. While several upside risks have moderated since the previous meeting, the MPC is expected to maintain a cautious stance.

Friday – 30 January 2026

• Money Supply, Credit and Trade Data to Round Out the Week

A batch of monetary and trade data will provide insight into domestic demand and external conditions toward the end of 2025. Private sector credit extension is expected to remain solid in December, easing slightly to about 7.6% year on year, with household borrowing supported by stronger mortgage and vehicle finance activity following seasonal spending. Corporate credit growth is likely to remain robust, underpinned by base effects and gradually improving domestic conditions. The accompanying trade balance figures will offer a further read on external performance as the year draws to a close.