Shareholders are referred to the announcement and further cautionary announcement published in the press on 29 August 2002 wherein it was reported that HCI had entered into negotiations with Venfin Limited regarding the proposed disposal of its entire interest of 5% in Vodacom Group (Proprietary) Limited for a net amount of not less than R1,5 billion from such disposal (” the proposed disposal”).

The board of directors of the company wishes to advise that the major hurdle of securing the support of the company`s major shareholders, in concluding these negotiations, has now been secured.

Accordingly, as the company is continuing with negotiations to pursue the proposed disposal, shareholders are advised to continue to exercise caution when dealing in their HCI ordinary shares until a further announcement is made.