SA economy contracts as structural weaknesses deepen: Professor Bond

South Africa's economy contracted by zero-point-two percent in the second quarter of 2026, following growth of zero-point-four percent in the first quarter. The latest figures from Statistics South Africa show that mining, trade and manufacturing were among the sectors weighing on economic activity. The Chief Director for National Accounts at Statistics South Africa, Dr Bokang Vumbukani-Lepolesa. To make sense of the numbers, Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Political Economist Professor Patrick Bond from the University of Johannesburg.