Ashley Lechman

Multimedia Journalist

Government steps in with temporary fuel levy reduction amid rising costs

Ashley Lechman|Published

South Africa's government has announced a temporary R3 cut to the fuel levy to alleviate the burden of soaring fuel prices on citizens, amid escalating global oil ...

Fuel levy cut: A band-aid solution in a broader crisis?

Ashley Lechman|Published

As South Africans brace for fluctuating fuel prices, the cut in levies offers a glimmer of hope amidst an ongoing economic challenge. Will this temporary relief ...

New report reveals the hidden costs of electricity outages for South African businesses

Ashley Lechman|Published

Barely on the road to recovery from load shedding, South African businesses face an invisible enemy: unplanned grid outages. Discover the stark findings of the Wetility ...

South Africa's Finance Minister cuts fuel levy by R3 amid rising oil prices

Ashley Lechman|Published

On the eve of significant fuel price hikes, South Africa's Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announces a temporary R3 reduction in the fuel levy, aiming to provide ...

Oil prices dip amidst mixed messages from US and Iran

Ashley Lechman|Published

As tensions escalate in the Gulf, financial markets find themselves at a crossroads, balancing the weight of geopolitical instability against hopeful economic indicators. ...

Record fuel price hikes loom amid calls for urgent government relief

Ashley Lechman and Siphelele Dludla|Published

As geopolitical tensions soar, South Africa faces alarming fuel price hikes. Learn how these shifts could reshape the economy and impact everyday consumers in the ...

Markets rattled as tensions between the US and Iran escalate

Ashley Lechman|Published

As tensions flare between the US and Iran, global markets react sharply. Discover how escalating hostilities and surging oil prices are reshaping the economic landscape, ...

Telkom empowers learners at Sitoza Senior Secondary School with digital tools

Ashley Lechman|Published

Discover how Telkom is transforming education in rural South Africa by connecting learners at Sitoza Senior Secondary School with vital digital tools and resources. ...

Why switching to energy-efficient appliances might not save you money

Ashley Lechman|Published

As electricity costs soar, understanding the intricate balance between appliance efficiency and effective energy management is crucial for South African households. ...

Markets shaken as US tensions with Iran escalate

Ashley Lechman|Published

With geopolitical uncertainties and market fluctuations intertwining, investors are bracing for what lies ahead as global leaders navigate this precarious situation. ...

South Africans brace for economic strain as debt costs rise

Ashley Lechman|Published

As South Africa grapples with rising costs and a strained economy, citizens face the pressing need for immediate solutions before they are overwhelmed by debt. Amidst ...

An interest rate cut this year will hinge on Middle East tensions and oil prices

Ashley Lechman|Published

With the South African Reserve Bank maintaining interest rates amid rising global inflation, what challenges lie ahead for consumers? Explore the implications for ...

North Industry founder Saina Titus turns passion for baking into a growing creative business

Ashley Lechman|Published

Saina Titus shares how passion, creativity and resilience helped launch North Industry in a tough economy

Consumer strain as Sarb keeps interest rates steady

Ashley Lechman|Published

As tensions flare in the Middle East, the South African Reserve Bank's decision to maintain interest rates highlights the nation's economic vulnerability and the ...

Rising cost pressures loom as MPC keeps repo rate unchanged

Ashley Lechman|Updated

As South Africans brace for rising costs and increased financial strain, insights from industry experts reveal a challenging road ahead for consumers facing relentless ...

Watch VideoSA Reserve Bank keeps repo rate steady as global uncertainties rise

Ashley Lechman|Published

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has decided to maintain the repo rate at 6.75%, as Governor Lesetja Kganyago highlights the impact of escalating geopolitical ...

L’Oréal Sub-Saharan Africa champions women scientists for a brighter future

Ashley Lechman|Published

This Programme is a beacon of hope and inspiration for women in scientific fields, proving that with the right support, they can drive remarkable advancements that ...

Ford recalls 582 Transit and Tourneo Custom vehicles over potential battery hazard

Ashley Lechman|Published

This urgent recall raises vital safety concerns for Ford Transit and Tourneo Custom owners, prompting immediate action to safeguard health and well-being. Don't ...

Markets react to Iran's rejection of US peace proposals as global uncertainties loom

Ashley Lechman|Published

As tensions in the Middle East influence market trends, local economic indicators beckon attention. Stay informed on how the evolving geopolitical landscape and ...

From hustles to businesses: how South Africans are turning everyday skills into income

Ashley Lechman|Published

In South Africa, individuals are turning necessity into opportunity, launching small businesses from their everyday skills. Discover how platforms like Uptooyoo ...

Eskom's tariff hike intensifies cost pressures for South African businesses

Ashley Lechman|Published

With Eskom's tariff hikes looming, South African businesses face a compounded cost shock that could reshape operational strategies. Find out how companies can adapt ...

Energy Council model highlighted as blueprint for future transport reforms in South Africa

Ashley Lechman|Published

Amidst South Africa's ongoing journey towards economic reform, the recognition of the Energy Council model sheds light on the significance of collaboration, underscoring ...

Hope blooms as US sends Iran ceasefire proposal amid de-escalation efforts

Ashley Lechman|Published

Financial markets are buzzing with optimism as the US and Iran take steps towards de-escalation, but will cautious sentiments reign supreme amidst potential surprises? ...

With fuel prices set to soar, International Energy Agency recommends working from home where possible

Ashley Lechman|Published

The geopolitical tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran have led to a significant global oil shock, pushing prices above $100 per barrel. This article explores ...

Pick n Pay's Smart Shopper recognised as Africa's best retail loyalty programme

Ashley Lechman|Published

This year, Pick n Pay's Smart Shopper loyalty programme has set a new standard in African retail, earning national recognition for its innovative approach to customer ...