Category: Thought Leadership Article

A thought-provoking new Op-ed by Dr Ntokozo Mahlangu, member of the Strategic Advisory Board at The DaVinci Institute, reflects on the launch of the African Credit Ratings Association (Acra) and what it means for Africa’s position in global capital markets. Writing at a time when African sovereign and corporate debt exceeds $1 trillion and the price of risk is increasingly sensitive to perception, Dr Mahlangu argues that credit ratings have become a decisive factor in shaping the continent’s economic future.

From Being Rated to Participating in Rating

In his article, “Africa is rating itself through building an institutional voice in global capital markets,” he explores how Acra represents more than a new institution. It signals a shift from Africa being merely assessed by global agencies to actively participating in how risk, value, and opportunity are understood and priced in international markets.

Strengthening Governance and Credibility

He notes that while international rating agencies operate with established and rigorous frameworks, these models were largely developed in advanced economies and do not always fully reflect African economic realities. By contributing local expertise, contextual understanding, and stronger data practices, an African-led ratings initiative has the potential to strengthen governance, transparency, and the credibility of financial reporting across the continent.

Rewriting Africa’s Financial Narrative

Ultimately, his piece highlights that institution-building in finance is not about symbolism, but about shaping fairer, more accurate, and more sustainable pathways for development. Africa, he suggests, is beginning to move from being narrated by global markets to helping write its own financial story. Read the full article on Business Day: Africa is rating itself through building an institutional voice in global capital markets

A thought-provoking new op-ed by Dr Ntokozo Mahlangu, a member of Strategic Advisory Board at The DaVinci Institute, was recently published in IOL, urging South Africa to ensure that its historic G20 Presidency leads to meaningful economic and social outcomes beyond the summit.

In his article, “South Africa’s G20 Moment Must Continue Beyond November,” Dr Mahlangu reflects on how the Presidency represents more than a ceremonial milestone. It is an opportunity for the country to shape global economic conversations, advocate for inclusive growth, and strengthen Africa’s position in the world.

He notes that while South Africa has held leadership roles in global forums before, the G20 Presidency offers a unique chance to translate international influence into domestic impact. By focusing on sustainable infrastructure, digital access, and equitable economic development, the country can leverage the Presidency to boost investor confidence, strengthen governance, and advance regional priorities.

Ultimately, his piece reminds us that global leadership is meaningful only when it translates into tangible benefits for citizens. The G20 Presidency is an invitation to turn international visibility into local transformation, ensuring that South Africa’s influence on the world stage strengthens the economy, institutions, and everyday lives of its people.

Read the full article on IOL: South Africa’s G20 Moment Must Continue Beyond November

A thought-provoking new Op-ed by Dr Ntokozo Mahlangu, Strategic Board Advisor at The DaVinci Institute, was recently published in IOL, calling on South Africa’s leaders to rediscover the nation’s moral compass as the country prepares for the launch of King V, the next stage in corporate governance.

In his article, “Reclaiming SA’s moral leadership: Reflecting on King V and the boardroom’s role in shaping the future,” Dr Mahlangu considers how King V could mark a turning point for governance in South Africa, not as another checklist of rules, but as an invitation to place Ubuntu and moral imagination at the centre of leadership.

He notes that while governance frameworks have not always prevented scandals or the erosion of public trust, King V offers a chance to rebuild integrity by grounding leadership in human values and social responsibility. The inclusion of Ubuntu in the draft code reflects a distinctly South African approach, one that emphasises community, accountability, and empathy as essential elements of sustainable business practice.

Dr Mahlangu also points out that higher education has a crucial role to play in shaping how these principles are lived out. Universities and business schools do more than teach governance theory; they help develop the ethical habits and sense of purpose that future leaders will bring into the boardroom.

Ultimately, his piece reminds us that governance extends beyond policies and profit. It begins with people, with how we lead, how we decide, and how we hold ourselves accountable.

Read the full article on IOL: Reclaiming SA’s moral leadership: Reflecting on King V and the boardroom’s role in shaping the future

Rand manipulation takes centre stage in a powerful recent Op-ed by Dr Ntokozo Mahlangu, Strategic Board Advisor at The DaVinci Institute, published in IOL. In the piece, Dr Mahlangu examines how the manipulation of the rand impacts South Africa’s economic sovereignty and explores the legal and financial implications of holding foreign banks accountable.

In his article, “Manipulation of the rand, the banks, and the test of our sovereignty,” Dr Mahlangu unpacks the high-stakes Constitutional Court case that will determine whether foreign banks can be prosecuted for influencing the rand’s value.

He highlights how currency manipulation affects everyday South Africans — from rising fuel and food prices to the erosion of savings, and argues that foreign financial institutions must be held to South African law when their actions impact local markets.

This critical piece raises pressing questions about jurisdiction, accountability, and the integrity of the financial sector in a globalised economy.

Read the full article here: IOL