Business
Why You Should Visit South Africa: A World of Adventure, Culture, and Natural Beauty By Femi Oyewale
Why You Should Visit South Africa: A World of Adventure, Culture, and Natural Beauty By Femi Oyewale
South Africa, often referred to as the “Rainbow Nation,” is a land of diversity, where breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities converge to create a traveler’s paradise. Whether you’re an adventurer, history buff, foodie, or beach lover, South Africa offers an unparalleled experience that promises to leave visitors enchanted.
1. The Allure of Nature: From Safari to Sea
South Africa is globally renowned for its natural beauty, boasting a wide range of ecosystems that include savannas, deserts, mountains, and coastlines.
A. The Big Five and Safari Adventures
The country is home to some of the best safari experiences in the world. Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest game reserves, offers visitors the chance to see the famed Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo—up close. Guided tours and self-drive options cater to both luxury travelers and budget explorers.
B. The Garden Route
Stretching along the southeastern coast, the Garden Route is a scenic drive filled with lush forests, serene lagoons, and pristine beaches. Highlights include the Tsitsikamma National Park, where adventurers can hike, kayak, and even bungee jump off Bloukrans Bridge, the world’s highest commercial bungee jump.
C. Cape Winelands and Table Mountain
Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain offers panoramic views of the city and its stunning coastline. A short drive away, the Cape Winelands, featuring picturesque vineyards and world-class wineries in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, attract wine enthusiasts and foodies alike.
- Rich Cultural Tapestry
South Africa is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions, making it one of the most unique destinations in the world.
A. The Cradle of Humankind
History lovers will appreciate the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Cradle of Humankind, where some of the oldest human fossils were discovered, offering a glimpse into humanity’s origins.
B. Cultural Villages and Heritage
Visit cultural villages like Shakaland in KwaZulu-Natal or Lesedi Cultural Village in Gauteng to experience the traditions of Zulu, Xhosa, and other indigenous groups. These villages showcase traditional dances, cuisine, and crafts.
C. Apartheid History and Nelson Mandela’s Legacy
No visit to South Africa is complete without exploring its complex history. The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg and Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, offer sobering yet inspiring insights into the country’s journey to democracy.
3. Thriving Cities with Global Appeal
A. Cape Town
Nestled between mountains and the sea, Cape Town is a city of contrasts. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Bo-Kaap, enjoy fine dining at the V&A Waterfront, or relax on the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay.
B. Johannesburg
South Africa’s largest city is the economic heart of the continent and a hub for art, music, and fashion. Maboneng Precinct, known for its creative energy, is a must-visit for galleries, street art, and boutique shopping.
C. Durban
Famous for its subtropical climate and Golden Mile beaches, Durban is also a culinary hotspot. Sample its Indian-influenced dishes like bunny chow, a spicy curry served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread.
4. Adventure for Every Thrill-Seeker
South Africa is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies.
- Shark Cage Diving: For the brave-hearted, cage diving with great white sharks in Gansbaai offers an unforgettable experience.
- Hiking Trails: The Drakensberg Mountains feature dramatic peaks and trails for both novice and experienced hikers.
- Whale Watching: Hermanus is one of the best land-based whale-watching spots in the world, with southern right whales visiting the coast annually.
5. A Food Lover’s Dream
South African cuisine reflects the country’s multicultural heritage. Braai (barbecue) is a beloved tradition, while dishes like bobotie, biltong, and Cape Malay curry showcase the nation’s culinary diversity. Pair your meals with a glass of South African wine, renowned for its quality and variety.
- Practical Tips for Travelers
- Best Time to Visit: South Africa is a year-round destination, but the dry season (May to September) is ideal for safaris, while November to March offers the best beach weather.
- Currency: The South African Rand (ZAR) provides excellent value for international visitors.
- Safety: Like any destination, travelers should exercise caution, particularly in urban areas. Guided tours and reputable accommodations ensure a worry-free experience.
7. Why South Africa Should Be on Your Bucket List
Few countries can match South Africa’s blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re marveling at wildlife on a safari, savoring fine wine in a vineyard, or immersing yourself in cultural traditions, South Africa is a destination that promises unforgettable memories.
So pack your bags, and get ready to explore the Rainbow Nation—a place where adventure meets culture, and every traveler finds a piece of home.
Alpha Morgan to Host 19th Economic Review Webinar
In an economy shaped by constant shifts, the edge often belongs to those with the right information.
On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Alpha Morgan Bank will host the 19th edition of its Economic Review Webinar, a high-level thought leadership session designed to equip businesses, investors, and individuals with timely financial and economic insight.
The session, which will hold live on Zoom at 10:00am WAT and will feature economist Bismarck Rewane, who will examine the key signals influencing Nigeria’s economic direction in 2026, including policy trends, market movements, and global developments shaping the local landscape.
With a consistent track record of delivering clarity in uncertain times, the Alpha Morgan Economic Review continues to provide practical context for decision-making in a dynamic environment.
Registration for the 19th Alpha Morgan Economic Review is free and can be completed via https://bit.ly/registeramerseries19
It is a bi-monthly platform that is open to the public and is held virtually.
Visit www.alphamorganbank to know more.
GTBank Launches Quick Airtime Loan at 2.95%
Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd (GTBank), the flagship banking franchise of GTCO Plc, Africa’s leading financial services group, today announced the launch of Quick Airtime Loan, an innovative digital solution that gives customers instant access to airtime when they run out of call credit and have limited funds in their bank accounts, ensuring customers can stay connected when it matters most.
In today’s always-on world, running out of airtime is more than a minor inconvenience. It can mean missed opportunities, disrupted plans, and lost connections, often at the very moment when funds are tight, and options are limited. Quick Airtime Loan was created to solve this problem, offering customers instant access to airtime on credit, directly from their bank. With Quick Airtime Loan, eligible GTBank customers can access from ₦100 and up to ₦10,000 by dialing *737*90#. Available across all major mobile networks in Nigeria, the service will soon expand to include data loans, further strengthening its proposition as a reliable on-demand platform.
For years, the airtime credit market has been dominated by Telcos, where charges for this service are at 15%. GTBank is now changing the narrative by offering a customer-centric, bank-led digital alternative priced at 2.95%. Built on transparency, convenience and affordability, Quick Airtime Loan has the potential to broaden access to airtime, deliver meaningful cost savings for millions of Nigerians, and redefine how financial services show up in everyday life, not just in banking moments.
Commenting on the product launch, Miriam Olusanya, Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd, said: “Quick Airtime Loan reflects GTBank’s continued focus on delivering digital solutions that are relevant, accessible, and built around real customer needs. The solution underscores the power of a connected financial ecosystem, combining GTBank’s digital reach and lending expertise with the capabilities of HabariPay to deliver a smooth, end-to-end experience. By leveraging unique strengths across the Group, we are able to accelerate innovation, strengthen execution, and deliver a more integrated customer experience across all our service channels.”
Importantly, Quick Airtime Loan highlights GTCO’s evolution as a fully diversified financial services group. Leveraging HabariPay’s Squad, the solution reinforces the Group’s ecosystem proposition by bringing together banking, payment technology, and digital channels to deliver intuitive, one-stop experiences for customers.
With this new product launch, Guaranty Trust Bank is extending its legacy of pioneering digital-first solutions that have redefined customer access to financial services across the industry, building on the proven strength of its widely adopted QuickCredit offering and the convenience of the Bank’s iconic *737# USSD Banking platform.
About Guaranty Trust Bank
Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) is the flagship banking franchise of GTCO Plc, a leading financial services group with a strong presence across Africa and the United Kingdom. The Bank is widely recognized for its leadership in digital banking, customer experience, and innovative financial solutions that deliver value to individuals, businesses, and communities.
About HabariPay
HabariPay is the payments fintech subsidiary of GTCO Plc, focused on enabling fast, secure, and accessible digital payments for individuals and businesses. By integrating payments and digital technology, HabariPay supports innovative services that make everyday financial interactions simpler and more seamless.
Enquiries:
GTCO
Group Corporate Communication
[email protected]
+234-1-2715227
www.gtcoplc.com
Business
BUA Group, AD Ports Group and MAIR Group Launch Strategic Plan for World-Class Sugar and Agro-Logistics Hub at Khalifa Port
BUA Group, AD Ports Group and MAIR Group Sign MoU to Explore Collaboration in Sugar Refining, Agro-Industrial Development, and Integrated Global Logistics Solutions
Abu Dhabi, UAE – Monday, 16th February 2026
BUA Group, AD Ports Group, and MAIR Group of Abu Dhabi today signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore collaboration in sugar refining, agro-industrial development, and integrated global logistics solutions. The partnership aims to create a world-class platform that strengthens regional food security, supports industrial diversification, and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub for trade and manufacturing.
The proposed collaboration will leverage BUA Group’s industrial and logistics expertise, Khalifa Port’s world-class infrastructure, and AD Ports Group’s operational experience. The initiative aligns with the objectives of the UAE Food Security Strategy 2051, which seeks to position the UAE as a global leader in sustainable food production and resilient supply chains. It also aligns with Nigeria’s food production- and export-oriented agricultural transformation agenda, focused on scaling domestic capacity, strengthening value addition, improving post-harvest logistics, and unlocking new markets for Nigerian produce across the Middle East, Asia, and beyond.
Photo Caption: L-R: Kabiru Rabiu, Group Executive Director, BUA Group; Cpt. Mohammed J. Al Shamisi, MD/Group CEO, AD Ports Group; Saif Al Mazrouei, CEO (Ports Cluster) AD Ports Group; Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder/Executive Chairman, BUA Group; and Steve Green, Group CFO, MAIR Group
Through structured aggregation, processing, storage, and maritime export channels, the partnership is designed to reduce supply chain inefficiencies, enhance traceability and quality standards, and also create a predictable trade corridor between West Africa and the Gulf.
BUA Group—recognised as one of Africa’s largest and most diversified conglomerates, with major investments across sugar refining, food production, flour milling, cement manufacturing, and infrastructure- brings extensive industrial expertise and large-scale operational capability to the venture. MAIR Group will provide strategic support in developing integrated logistics and agro-industrial solutions, creating a seamless platform for production, storage, and distribution.
Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder and Chairman of BUA Group, said:
“This MoU marks an important milestone in BUA’s international expansion and reflects our long-term vision of building globally competitive industrial platforms. Together with AD Ports Group and MAIR Group, we aim to develop sustainable food production and logistics solutions that strengthen regional supply chains and support the UAE’s Food Security Strategy 2051.”
He further added that, “This partnership represents not just a commercial arrangement but a strategic food corridor anchored on shared economic ambition, resilient infrastructure, and disciplined execution, reinforcing long-term food security objectives for both nations.”
A representative of MAIR Group added:
“This collaboration underscores our commitment to advancing strategic industries in Abu Dhabi and building integrated solutions that reinforce the UAE’s position as a global hub for trade, food security, and industrial excellence.”
A spokesperson from AD Ports Group commented:
“Our partnership with BUA Group and MAIR Group highlights Khalifa Port’s role as a catalyst for high-impact industrial investments. This initiative will enhance regional food security, strengthen global trade connectivity, and support Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification goals.”
This MoU marks a historic collaboration that combines world-class infrastructure, industrial expertise, and strategic vision, setting the stage for a sustainable and resilient food and logistics ecosystem that will benefit the UAE, the region, and global markets alike.
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