Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-03-16 i Sunday Independent

Small-scale to medium enterprises (SME) play a pivotal role in South Africa’s economy but they may well have been forgotten when Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana delivered his 2025 Budget Speech this week. Shawn Theunissen, the founder of Property Point and eTTP, said the 2025 budget statement “was a missed opportunity to leverage SMEs as a catalyst for economic growth and job” creation. “Instead of bold action, we saw vague commitments and a lack of urgency on the issues that matter most to small businesses,” he said. The 0.5% VAT increase proposed for 2025/26, rising by another 0.5% the following year was expected to add an additional direct financial strain on SMEs. The hike in the VAT rate will increase operational costs for small businesses and further squeeze profit margins at…

STEPHAN Flynn, author of The Edge of Disaster, said in the documentary The Crumbling of America: “When we look at Rome as a great civilisation, a big part of what made it so great was the infrastructure. The road systems, the bridges, the aqueducts. As the Romans started to neglect that investment, they crumbled and collapsed, and we ended up with the dark ages.” The same could be said of South Africa. For many years, country’s infrastructure has been impressive. However, in the past few years, South Africa's infrastructure has deteriorated. Almost all of its infrastructure has collapsed or is crumbling. The only remaining infrastructure that has remained unscathed is strongly fragile, as it is by now dated and highly vulnerable. The fragility has manifested itself through potholes and collapses…

There are diverse views on South Africa’s ambassador Ebrahim Rasool's expulsion from the USA on Friday, after sharing his opinion on Donald Trump’s presidency during a webinar. Rasool previously served as SA ambassador to the US during the Barack Obama administration between 2010 and 2015. He was re-appointed in January 2025, as ambassador during the Joe Biden and then Donald Trump administration. The webinar was held by the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (Mistra) where Rasool made the remarks. The theme was 'Implications of changes in US administrations for SA and Africa'. During the webinar, Rasool said people should get hold of the framework document of South Africa’s national interests — because this is going to be a guide for SA during these very turbulent moments that we are navigating…

THE 2025 Budget Speech, delivered by South Africa’s Finance Minister, has been met with widespread condemnation, with critics slamming it as a callous and economically destructive move that will further cripple already struggling households. The proposed one percentage point VAT increase over two years, coupled with the failure to adjust personal income tax brackets for inflation, has been described as “unacceptable” and a “slap in the face” to taxpayers. Solidarity, a leading trade union, has led the charge, accusing the govern- ment of showing “no compassion whatsoever” for the people of South Africa. The Treasury’s proposal to increase VAT by one percentage point has been met with fierce resistance. Theuns du Buisson, an economic researcher at the Solidarity Research Institute (SRI), minced no words in his criticism: “This increase will…

ALL eyes were on Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana this week, following last month’s postponed Budget Speech, which some GNU members refused to support. The initial 2% proposed VAT hike drew harsh criticism and was rejected by GNU members who demanded more emphasis on growth. In the days that followed, the recovery in the rand and bond yields suggested that the market was taking the GNU’s first real test in its stride. Rather than indicating dysfunction, the experience demonstrated that the GNU is, in fact, working. Like in any relationship, a compromise is necessary to move forward. Speculation around what that compromise might look like was rampant leading up to the event. Analysts felt a 0.5% to 1% VAT hike, coupled with spending cuts and more explicit measures to boost growth,…

CUBA is facing its fourth significant blackout in just five months, a troubling scenario similar to that of close allies South Africa. This latest lapse in electricity supply further exacerbates an already dire energy crisis, signalling an urgent need for reforms and international assistance in the Caribbean nation. Residents of Havana and other major cities reported extensive power outages that lasted for several hours, disrupting daily life and prompting widespread complaints. The blackouts have sparked frustration and anger among the populace, many of whom are already grappling with the burdens of rising costs of living and dwindling resources. Experts suggest that these blackouts are symptomatic of a fractured energy infrastructure struggling under the weight of years of neglect and lack of investment. The country relies predominantly on ageing fossil fuel…

The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) has provided clarification on the operational challenges the government is facing in recruiting staff using its Z83 application for employment form. Acting DPSA Director-General Willie Vukela said that in the second quarter of the 2024/25 financial year, the department surveyed other government departments to identify the difficulties encountered when completing the Z83 form. According to Vukela, the survey revealed that the form was applied inconsistently across the public service. He said it highlighted challenges related to the instructions for filling out the form and addressing specific questions. The DPSA has advised government departments to enhance administrative efficiency and ensure the fair consideration of applicants. According to the department, the Z83 form must not be used in isolation during the selection process,…

South Sudan’s post-civil war Transitional Government of National Unity held together by a tenuous Revitalised Agreement for Conflict Resolution in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) signed in 2018 appears to be on the brink of collapse. This was after reports of renewed clashes between the South Sudanese forces controlled by President Salva Kiir and the White Army militia believed to be loyal to the First Vice President Riek Machar. Although the militia does not fall under the direct control of Machar, its members are drawn from the Nuer ethnic group to which Machar belongs and fought alongside his Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) against Kiir’s Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) during the five-year civil war from 2013 to 2018. South Sudan descended into a civil war in 2013, just two…

AT China’s recent annual “two sessions” political gathering, Chinese modernisation once again captured global attention. International observers are closely following a range of new measures designed not only to accelerate Chinese domestic transformation but also to unlock fresh opportunities for global development. Chinese modernisation, built on a foundation of openness and co- operation, will continue to yield global benefits with each new milestone. Today, China stands as a formidable force in the global economy, accounting for around 18% of the global economy, and the added value of China’s manufacturing sector contributes to about 30% of the world’s total. Year after year, the nation has contributed about 30% to global economic growth. With import and export records with almost all countries and regions designated in the UN Statistics Division, the country…

In what marks their final match before the first FIFA International break of the year, Kaizer Chiefs will head to Durban this Sunday afternoon to face Richards Bay in a Betway Premiership clash at the King Zwelithini Stadium. Scheduled for a 3.30pm kick off, The Natal Rich Boys will be looking to disrupt the Glamour Boys' hopes of climbing into the top three by securing a crucial win over the Soweto giants. Chiefs, still licking their wounds after a frustrating 0-0 draw with Cape Town City at FNB Stadium on Wednesday, will be eager to bounce back. Meanwhile, Richards Bay are coming off a disappointing 1-0 loss to Magesi FC, a team currently struggling to stay afloat towards the bottom of the league. The first meeting between these two sides…

Two lucky Formula 1 drivers could make history next season and join Cadillac - the 11th team to compete for the World Championship. It will be the first time that 11 teams take the grid since the start of F1 in 1950. Since then, only 10 teams and 20 drivers have competed but this month, the FIA made a historic announcement, confirming Cadillac’s seat on the grid, and the second American team behind Haas. The addition of Cadillac also means that there’s two new seats available next season, with a host of former drivers looking to seize a spot. But Cadillac Team Principal Graeme Lowdon said they are looking into hiring American drivers as well. Valterri Bottas Being a bunch of newbies in the paddock, Cadillac will have to align…

Thomas Tuchel said his England team must reflect the physicality of the Premier League as he hopes to inject more "intensity" into the Three Lions. The German's appointment as the third foreign manager to take charge of England has raised the pressure on Tuchel to deliver a first major trophy since 1966 at next year's World Cup. After consecutive European Championship final defeats under Gareth Southgate, plus semi-final and quarter-final exits at the past two World Cups, the English Football Association has invested heavily in Tuchel's track record as a serial winner. The 51-year-old guided Chelsea to Champions League glory in 2021 and also won league titles at Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain. Tuchel, though, said he is hoping to deploy the pace and power of the Premier League, rather…

Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri put up stellar drives in the first qualifying round of the season, taking pole and 2nd place for the Australian Grand Prix. Norris edges his Australian team mate by 0.084s to take pole position as he fights for his first world title. Red Bull's Max Verstappen initially took pole but was beaten by the hometown hero Piastri by four tenths. Norris put a damper in the Australian crowd spirits shortly after with a blistering 1m 15.096s lap to trump Piastri. Verstappen had to settle for third, with George Russel in the Mercedes behind in fourth. Arguably the most impressive lap of qualifying belonged to Yuki Tsunoda in the Racing Bulls' car to finish the top five. Alex Albon broke Ferrari fans hearts around the world,…

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana delivered this year’s postponed Budget Speech this week, which presented a Budget subject to Parliamentary approval. Knowing how the proposed Budget affects you will give you the power to take control of your finances, relook your financial plan and have confidence in your financial future. The Budget Speech isn’t just about big numbers for the nation – it is also about how it will affect us; from Parliament to person. What is the Budget about? In a thriving economy, people and businesses would find it more manageable to pay more tax. This, in turn, allows the government to spend money collected from taxes on short- and long-term priorities like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. On the other hand, an economy that does not grow sufficiently means…

Ageing is a natural part of life, but how we age is often influenced by our lifestyle choices and self-care routines. While genetics play a role, incorporating mindful self-care practices into your daily life can help you maintain a youthful appearance and feel more vibrant. Here are some effective self-care practices that can help you look younger and radiate confidence. Prioritise skincare Your skin is one of the first places where signs of ageing appear. A consistent skincare routine can work wonders in maintaining a youthful glow. ● Cleanse and moisturise daily: Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and impurities, followed by a moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated. Hydrated skin looks plump and reduces the appearance of fine lines. ● Wear sunscreen: Sun exposure is one of the…

THE Zulu monarch has described the action of some royal family members listing King Misuzulu as a prince in their newly unveiled royal family tree as disrespectful. Three Zulu princes, Vulindlela, Thulani, and Mathubesizwe, addressed the briefing at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban on Friday to unveil the family tree, which listed the king and his siblings as princes and princesses. They are brothers to the late King Goodwill Zwelithini and uncles to King Misuzulu. The release of the tree to the public was in anticipation of the outcome of a yet-to-be-heard appeal lodged by King Misuzulu at the Supreme Court of Appeal against the Gauteng High Court, Pretoria, ruling against President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recognition and gazettal of the kingship, which is being disputed within the…

SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter has highlighted the complexities surrounding the proposed wealth tax, emphasising that this tax is not an instantaneous solution to the nation’s pressing fiscal challenges. Kieswetter underscored the need for extensive work to lay the groundwork for the initiative. “This is one of the areas where you may need to come back and do a deep dive discussion with members on wealth tax because the first question is, what is a wealth tax? How do we define a tax on the wealthy?” he said. He made the statement during the joint meeting of Parliament’s committees that deal with matters of finance and appropriation on Friday. The meeting was aimed to engage Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and the National Treasury on the 2025/26 Budget tabled earlier this week.…

SOUTH Africa’s Land Rights Management Unit (LRMU), a critical division of Legal Aid SA, is grappling with severe challenges as it strives to deliver justice to some of the country’s most marginalised citizens: farm dwellers, labour tenants, and land reform beneficiaries. Despite its mandate to provide legal representation to these vulnerable groups, the unit is hamstrung by chronic underfunding, systemic inefficiencies, and delays in resolving cases. These issues have sparked intense scrutiny and raised urgent questions about the government’s commitment to land reform and rural justice. Established in January 2022, the LRMU was tasked with taking over legal representation for farm occupiers, labour tenants, and land claimants from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD). However, since its inception, the unit has faced significant operational hurdles, leaving…

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) head Shamila Batohi has announced that additional state capture cases will be enrolled in 2025. She emphasised the NPA’s commitment to progress, stating, “A great deal of effort is being put into this matter, and I am highly confident that this year will bring significant progress with further case enrolments.” However, public perception remains that the NPA’s success is judged solely by the imprisonment of politicians, a narrow view that overlooks the broader systemic issues at play. Batohi’s statement comes amid growing scrutiny of the NPA’s ability to hold powerful corporate actors accountable, particularly those implicated in state capture. South Africa’s legal landscape is riddled with contradictions, as highlighted by political analyst Aubrey Matshiqi, who describes a reality where truth-seekers must navigate between “angels with horns…

THIS past week, we celebrated International Women’s Day in South Africa and the world. As we reflect on the historical day, we are also obligated to revisit our commitment as South Africans to the emancipation of women in our country, particularly rural women. Rural women in South Africa continue to bear the brunt of triple oppression due to their race, class, and gender; hence, it is not a coincidence that in their majority they have not managed to achieve economic freedom. This situation is no different from the realities of many women in the Global South, and one country in particular that is also confronted with this circumstance is India. The patriarchal norms in India have hindered women’s progress in the country, but a lot is seemingly being done by…

A repeat offender rapist has been served 15 years imprisonment and will serve the remainder of his previous sentence - being five years - before he starts serving the latest sentence. Bonginkosi Ngcingci, 36, was out on parole after serving 10 years of a 15-year sentence for rape, robbery, and housebreaking when he again committed a rape. National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson for the Eastern Cape division, Luxolo Tyali, said Ngcingci - in the latest rape case - was convicted for the rape of a 26-year-old woman he claimed to have been in a relationship with and claimed they had consensual sex. Ngcingci was recently sentenced in the Makhanda Regional Court. Details that emerged in court were that in the early hours of December 23, 2023, Ngcingci followed the victim and…

THE issue of human rights abuses has been one of the critical subjects in South Africa’s political history. The Khoisan communities were on the receiving end following the arrival of the whites on the shores of this country. The slaves also saw their human rights being violated. White expansion from the Cape of Good Hope saw the rights of black people being violated. The beginning of apartheid in 1948 and subsequent discriminatory legislation saw the human rights of the oppressed people being trampled upon. Given this context, it did not come as a surprise when Nelson Mandela emphasised human rights in his 1993 article which was the foundation of South Africa’s foreign policy agenda. Having been the victim of human rights abuses, Mandela pleaded with the world to respect human…

The last time Boland won a Division One title was during the Covid-19 bubble days when they won the CSA T20 Challenge at St George's Park in Gqeberha in 2022. After having rather forgetful seasons, the side has been able to turn their ship around in the ongoing CSA One Day Cup, dominating on their way booking a home final. Boland Seam bowler Glenton Stuurman told Independent Media that their new recruits including Gavin Kaplan and Grant Roelofsen have breathed life into their team. "After having a season like we had last year, we knew that we had to do something different and for us, it was getting some new faces in, new energy, a different type of hunger and ultimately everyone that will buy into what we want to…

Liverpool can win the first trophy of the Arne Slot era in today's League Cup final against a Newcastle side desperate to end the club's 56-year wait for major silverware. In the first final of the English domestic season, runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool head to Wembley aiming to erase the bitter taste of their Champions League exit against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday. The Reds were beaten 4-1 on penalties by PSG in the last 16 second leg at Anfield. It was a rare blow in what has been a successful first season in charge for Slot, who arrived from Feyenoord to succeed Jurgen Klopp last year. Sitting 15 points clear at the top of the Premier League, the Reds are within touching distance of a record-equalling 20th English title…

Patrice Motsepe, president of CAF, who has extended his leadership of the organisation until 2029, has promised to address the issue of national stadiums across Africa. On Wednesday, Motsepe was re-elected unopposed for a second four-year term at the 14th CAF extraordinary general assembly in Cairo. He said national stadiums would be one of his key areas of focus. “In 2021, there were 36 countries that were not playing football in their own countries. The number has come down to 12, but for us, this is still a big number,” said Motsepe. “At CAF and Fifa, it is our job to continue supporting the development of sports infrastructure.” Motsepe urged national federations to work with private financiers to help build national stadiums in countries where government budgets are restrictive. He…

Orlando Pirates face an uphill battle to dethrone Mamelodi Sundowns as they go into this weekend’s clash at the FNB Stadium staring at an 18-point deficit. Obakeng Meletse looks at the five players that need to stand up to reduce the deficit. Tshegofatso Mabasa The Buccaneers are not only in arrears but they might have to deal with a goal difference that is also heavily weighing in the Brazilians’ favour with every match that passes. Mabasa was the 2023/24 season golden boot award winner and with only 12 matches of their season still left to play, the left-footed striker has not gone past even half of the 16 goals he scored last season. Relebohile Mofokeng Without a doubt, South Africa’s most talented player, Mofokeng, together with his Pirates side have…

In an age where authenticity and ethical practices take centre stage in the marketplace, Nikki Robertson’s Zulu Mien stands out as a beacon of hope. Founded in the serene backdrop of Leeuwfontein Estate in Pretoria, Gauteng, Zulu Mien champions sustainable craftsmanship, offering luxe beaded jewellery that embodies the rich traditions of the Nguni people. Each piece, delicately handcrafted with the highest quality glass beads, tells a remarkable story of artistry, culture, and empowerment. Robertson’s journey began in the heart of rural Kwa-Zulu Natal. An early training stint as a product developer exposed her to the profound skills of women artisans in the area, sparking the idea for Zulu Mien. “My journey began when I was invited to train as a product developer in rural KwaZulu-Natal, working alongside women artisans.…

The government will not come to a standstill if the Budget is not passed by Parliament in April, but there is a likelihood of the collapse of the Government of National Unity (GNU) or emergence of reconfigured coalition government. The worst scenario in the event that parties don’t reach an agreement will be to call fresh elections to elect a new government. This is according to political parties and a political scientist in the wake of the opposition to the Budget that was tabled for the second time by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana. It has been referred to parliamentary committees for deliberation and scrutiny before the two Houses of Parliament pass or reject it on April 2 amid the expressed dissatisfaction with its current form, especially the inclusion of VAT…

THE latest South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) Trade Conditions Survey for February 2025 presents a nuanced picture of South Africa’s trade environment, showing both signs of improvement and lingering challenges. Participants noted that trade conditions were better in February than at any time since mid-2024, following the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in June last year. This change suggests that efforts by the GNU to enhance the economy are beginning to yield positive results. In February 2025, 54% of respondents faced tough trade conditions, an improvement from 65% in December 2024 and 60% in January 2025. This easing of trade conditions indicates a gradual recovery, likely influenced by the GNU's economic initiatives. However, expectations for the next six months are less optimistic, with only…

eThekwini Municipality has spent a whopping R187.5 million in the past 75 months since the last quarter of 2018, providing security and maintenance for the almost completed GO! Durban bus route, including stations. The project has been dormant for the past eight years, with the city wasting a significant amount of money on a route that is not bringing in revenue. This has angered the national government, which recently threatened to stop providing additional financing. The supposedly state-of-the-art Corridor 3 (C3) route between Pinetown and Bridge City, in the north of Durban, whose construction began in 2014, remains a white elephant. According to the city’s GO! Durban News publication, the C3 was supposed to be completed towards the end of 2017 and become operational the following year. The city was…

THE Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development’s meeting to establish criteria for appointing South Africa’s first Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Ombudsperson descended into disarray, as members clashed over procedural delays, accusations of document tampering, and a proposed motion of no confidence against the committee secretary. The meeting, chaired by the ANC’s Masefako Dikgale, was intended to finalise the shortlisting criteria for candidates applying for the newly created position of SME Ombudsperson. The office, mandated by the National Small Enterprise Amendment Act, will adjudicate disputes and complaints within the small enterprise sector and report to the Minister of Small Business Development and Parliament. However, the proceedings were marred by infighting and accusations of incompetence. The EFF’s Babalwa Mathulelwa led the charge, proposing a motion of no confidence against the Committee…

THIS past week, South Africa mourned a great loss — one of its brightest comedic talents — with the passing of Ebenhaezer Dibakwane. The actor, writer, creative, and award-winning comedic bright spark was a beloved figure in the comedy scene and on the big screen. His quick wit, infectious humour, and downright authentic relatability made him an endeared public figure, in any scene. Beyond that, Ebenhaezer had an ingenious way of conveying exceptionally insightful observations in a uniquely hilarious way. With a confident, yet effortless style that radiated charm, and thick, vibrant hair worthy of making Steve Biko jealous, Ebenhaezer was certainly an embodiment of incomparable energy. It is not often one realises the adverse impact of loss, not only to a family, community, or industry, but to an entire…

THE struggle against apartheid was a collective effort involving various liberation movements, with the ANC being the oldest and most prominent. Once a unifying force, the ANC enjoyed widespread support from diverse communities. The Freedom Charter, adopted at the Congress of the People (COP) in Kliptown on 26 June 1955, became a blueprint for a non- racial, non-sexist, and democratic South Africa. It articulated the aspirations of the majority, declaring that South Africa belongs to all who live in it. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter, providing an opportunity to reflect on the ANC’s evolution since it assumed power in 1994. While the Charter remains a beacon of hope, the ANC’s ability to uphold its principles has waned, raising questions about its future relevance. Power of…

Orlando Pirates’ defender-cum-midfielder Bandile Shandu says their title race fate is solely on their hands, and that’s why they are not focusing on other teams. Pirates are second on the log with 40 points, 18 behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns who have played four games more. With the rescheduling of their games in hand yet to be decided, Pirates could trim that gap to 15 points if they beat Sundowns today. Pirates will host Sundowns at the Calabash at 3.30pm, not only eager to bag three points, but to avenge their 4-1 loss in the first leg last month. Shandu, though, is adamant that they won’t be obsessed with beating the champions for external reasons, instead they want to improve themselves as a unit. “If we improve ourselves then we are…

Cheslin Kolbe didn’t think he would be crowned the South African Rugby Player of the Year coming up against big names like Pieter-Steph du Toit, current World Rugby Player of the Year, Springbok centurion Eben Etzebeth and star inside centre Damian de Allende. But the accolade fell to the fleet-footed winger on Thursday evening in Cape Town when he beat his Springbok teammates to be crowned the best player in SA for 2024. He follows in the footsteps of former Stormers teammate Jean de Villiers who was the last backline player, back in 2013, to win the prestigious award. Kolbe said he is still pinching himself after bagging the win after a stellar 2024 with the Springboks. “Growing up and seeing all the players who have lifted this award has…

The Sharks’ commitment to transformation was recognised at the SA Rugby Awards evening on Thursday when they landed the inaugural President’s Award. SA Rugby president Mark Alexander handed over the trophy to KZN rugby president Graham Mackenzie and thanked the Sharks for their “unwavering commitment to transformation.” It was under the stewardship of former Sharks CEO Ed Coetzee that the Sharks got ahead in the transformation game. Skilful black Africans were recruited at the top level and others were brought through the Sharks Academy. Every Saturday the Sharks field a team that is representative of South Africa. The coaching staff doesn’t have to wonder about player colour in terms of representation targets because the squad is richly integrated with South Africans of all races, colours and creeds. Alexander said: “The…

Mikel Arteta said he was "proud" of Arsenal defender Myles Lewis-Skelly after the teenager was named in Thomas Tuchel's first England squad on Friday. Lewis-Skelly has enjoyed a meteoric rise since bursting onto the Premier League stage with Arsenal earlier this season. The 18-year-old only made his Gunners debut in September, but has already established himself as a key figure in Arteta's line-up. The Arsenal academy graduate grew up in Islington, near to the Emirates Stadium, and has been at the north London club since the age of nine. As a homegrown product, Lewis-Skelly's rapid progression to the England squad earned a glowing tribute from his manager. "Very proud of him," said Arteta, whose team host Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday. "It's a huge moment for him and…

This last week’s furore in South African cricket over the Eastern Province Warriors’ failure to meet transformation targets got me thinking about how rugby, ironically, has been the trailblazers in local sport. I say “ironically” because during the apartheid era, the Springboks were regarded by many as the poster boys of white supremacy. The lilywhite Boks were hated by large factions in this country and understandably so. Until 1992, only whites qualified for the Springboks and if you were not white, why would you support a team that excluded you? To this day there are many South Africans who still cannot bring themselves to support the Boks. In the Western and Eastern Cape there are All Blacks supporters clubs who turn out en masse to support the Kiwis when they…