Ashley Lechman

Multimedia Journalist

Clover SA warns of dairy industry crisis due to inconsistent FMD control measures

Ashley Lechman|Published

Clover SA issues a stark warning about the looming crisis in South Africa’s dairy industry, blaming inconsistent FMD measures for jeopardising exports and threatening ...

Earning on TikTok: Alternatives for South African creators without the creator fund

Ashley Lechman|Published

Despite criticism for not offering a creator fund in South Africa, TikTok reveals multiple ways local creators can monetise their content.

Will the R100 spirits tax push consumers to the black market?

Ashley Lechman|Published

This upcoming Budget Speech could reshape the South African alcohol market. With a potential R100 spirits tax looming, will consumers turn to cheaper, illicit options? ...

Discover SendMePls: The new South African app revolutionising shopping and delivery

Ashley Lechman|Published

Explore how SendMePls is reshaping the shopping landscape in South Africa by offering a unique delivery service that empowers local communities and tackles unemployment. ...

The disconnect: why South Africa's SMEs are not benefiting from economic growth

Ashley Lechman|Published

Despite positive macroeconomic signals, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa are experiencing declining confidence levels. Delve into the latest SME ...

Markets bounce back as AI shares find support amidst economic optimism

Ashley Lechman|Published

As global markets react to shifting economic winds, AI shares rebound amid increasing investor optimism, while the rand faces pressures as the dollar strengthens. ...

Franchising remains a resilient option for SMEs in 2026

Ashley Lechman|Published

As 2026 unfolds, South Africa's franchise sector emerges as a resilient pathway for small businesses, providing structured opportunities amidst economic challenges. ...

TikTok removes 920,000 videos in South Africa to enhance user safety

Ashley Lechman|Published

In an unprecedented move to boost user safety, TikTok has removed over 920,000 videos in South Africa as part of its dedication to community well-being. Discover ...

SA Reserve bank proposes reforming loan pricing by replacing prime lending rate with repo rate

Ashley Lechman|Published

Will South African borrowers benefit from a clearer and potentially cheaper loan pricing system? Discover how the SARB's proposal to switch from the prime lending ...

Infrastructure overhaul and SME funding crucial for unlocking South Africa's trade potential

Ashley Lechman|Published

Against the backdrop of economic uncertainty, South Africa’s latest State of the Nation Address reveals a policy blueprint that prioritises trade and SMEs. But will ...

Watch VideoA family business rising to national prominence as it feeds South Africa

Ashley Lechman|Published

Discover the inspiring journey of Botselo Mills, a family business that has transformed from a local maize supplier into a national player, ensuring food security ...

Economic analysts offer mixed but hopeful assessments of the 2026 Sona

Ashley Lechman|Published

This year's SONA has sparked a necessary conversation about governance in South Africa, blending hope for new initiatives with a realistic critique of the systemic ...

Busa backs Sona’s reform signal, but emphasises the need for tangible delivery

Ashley Lechman|Published

BUSA praises President Ramaphosa’s SONA for its reformative approach but stresses the imperative of tangible results. As the nation looks forward to change, will ...

FNB transforms stokvel banking experience with digital account opening

Ashley Lechman|Published

FNB has unveiled a game-changing digital solution for stokvels, removing financial barriers and simplifying the account-opening process. Discover how this innovation ...

Woolworths’ MyDifference loyalty programme enhances customer connections through data and purpose

Ashley Lechman|Published

As Woolworths continues to innovate within the loyalty landscape, the MyDifference programme promises not only to reward but also to connect customers with a shared ...

Online education as a vital solution for South Africa's skills crisis

Ashley Lechman|Published

In the wake of pressing economic needs, the future of South Africa’s education system hinges on a radical shift towards online learning. Discover how these changes ...

Households in South Africa brace for financial struggle despite optimistic SONA 2026

Ashley Lechman|Published

The optimism expressed during Sona 2026 starkly contrasts with the daily struggles faced by South African households, prompting urgent calls for effective economic ...

When AI plays Cupid: the hidden dangers of companion chatbots

Ashley Lechman|Published

As we venture further into an era defined by digital interactions, understanding the implications of sustained emotional connections with machines becomes crucial. ...

Allan Gray Orbis Foundation opens applications for 2026 Fellowship Programme

Ashley Lechman|Published

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2026 Fellowship Programme. This initiative promises a unique blend of university funding and ...

Property Point urges Ramaphosa to prioritise MSMEs in State of the Nation Address

Ashley Lechman|Published

As President Ramaphosa prepares for his State of the Nation Address, Property Point urges him to focus on micro, small, and medium enterprises, underscoring their ...

Anglo American and Kumba Iron Ore launch funding facility for SMEs in South Africa

Ashley Lechman|Published

As South Africa grapples with economic challenges, this initiative by Anglo American and Kumba Iron Ore represents a beacon of hope for SMEs, promising to not only ...

Celebrating women and girls in science: why mathematics still matters

Ashley Lechman|Published

Despite advancements, a significant number of girls abandon mathematics at an early stage, often hindered by the misguided belief that it is “too hard” or “not for ...

Urgent product recall: ButtaNutt peanut butter contaminated with aflatoxin

Ashley Lechman|Published

An urgent recall has been issued for ButtaNutt peanut butter after dangerous levels of aflatoxin were found. Find out how this affects you and what steps to take ...

Strengthening cybersecurity through smarter vendor risk management

Ashley Lechman|Published

Recovery timeframes, acceptable levels of data loss and escalation processes must be understood, tested, and confirmed.

State of the Nation Address: Economic outlook and government plans for South Africa

Ashley Lechman|Published

As President Cyril Ramaphosa prepares to deliver the State of the Nation Address, economists weigh in on the anticipated economic strategies and challenges facing ...