Author: Ariana Steenkamp

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his willingness to engage in discussions regarding concerns about the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill. This commitment comes amidst growing opposition and debates surrounding the proposed amendments to South Africa’s education laws.  Political Backlash and Legal Threats President Ramaphosa’s willingness to engage with different parties comes in response to significant criticism from opposition groups like the Democratic Alliance (DA) and civil organizations such as AfriForum. The Presidency announced that the signing of the BELA Bill would take place at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Friday, prompting DA leader John Steenhuisen to call for an urgent meeting…

The South African Department of Health has reintroduced the new smoking laws under the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Bill to the portfolio committee on health, reigniting efforts to pass stricter regulations. This bill aims to regulate the sale, advertising, and use of tobacco products and electronic nicotine delivery systems, such as vapes. It introduces specific measures and strict penalties for those who violate the new rules. The Department of Health (DoH) clarified that it does not intend to impose a total ban on tobacco products in South Africa. However, the proposed laws are designed to significantly restrict access,…

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) recently introduced significant changes to retirement savings with the new Two-Pot Retirement System, which became effective this week. Alongside these updates, SARS launched a Two-Pot Retirement System Calculator to help taxpayers estimate their potential withdrawal amounts. Key Changes from 1 September 2024 From 1 September 2024, individuals who are members of pension funds, provident funds, pension preservation funds, provident preservation funds, and retirement annuity funds will have the option to access a portion of their retirement savings while still a member of the fund. This system divides retirement funds into three distinct components: 1. Vested…

Starting from September 1, 2024, South Africa will introduce a new retirement savings system, known as the two-pot system. This change will affect all current and future members of retirement funds, making it essential to understand how the new structure works. Here is a simplified overview of the purpose and mechanics behind this new system to help clear up any confusion. Understanding the Two-Pot Retirement Savings System The new two-pot retirement savings system is designed to strike a balance between preserving retirement investments until retirement and allowing limited access to a portion of these savings during one’s working years. Beginning…

Coming Weeks South Africa is on the brink of a significant potato shortage that could send prices skyrocketing as high as R200 for a 10kg bag. This shortage, driven by harsh weather conditions, is expected to impact both fresh and frozen potato products, leading to higher prices across the country. Severe Weather Decimates Potato Crops The potato shortage has been largely attributed to severe weather conditions, particularly the devastating “black frost” that has hit key farming areas in Limpopo. This frost has severely affected potato crops, leading to a sharp decline in yield. According to Mohammed Adam, a buyer at M&R…

Draft Revenue Application Submitted to Nersa Eskom’s price hike request, which includes a 36.15% increase in electricity tariffs for the 2025/26 financial year, has been submitted as a draft revenue application to the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa). However, the increase remains uncertain as Nersa awaits Eskom’s final submission. Potential Changes to Eskom’s Tariff Application Nersa emphasized that Eskom’s proposed tariff increase is not yet final and could be subject to adjustments. Once Eskom submits its final application, Nersa will adhere to its regulatory processes, which include publishing the application on its website, facilitating a thorough public participation process, and…

South African Fighter Secures Another Victory in the Octagon Dricus du Plessis successfully defended his middleweight title at UFC 305, defeating Israel Adesanya in a hard-fought battle. The fight, held at the Perth Arena on Sunday morning, ended with Du Plessis forcing Adesanya to tap out in the fourth round. The Fight Breakdown The fight was intense, with both fighters exchanging blows for three rounds. In the fourth round, Dricus Du Plessis capitalized on an opportunity, taking Adesanya down and securing a chokehold that left his opponent no choice but to submit. With this win, Du Plessis extended his winning streak…

Introduction The South African Department of Health has urged the public to remain vigilant in the face of the mpox virus, emphasizing the need for early detection and responsible behaviour. Although the situation is currently under control, the recent declaration by the World Health Organization (WHO) of mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) underscores the importance of proactive measures. Current Status in South Africa As of now, South Africa has recorded 24 confirmed cases of mpox, including three fatalities. Despite these numbers, the Department of Health reassures that the situation remains manageable, with ongoing surveillance and epidemiological data…

Rising Hijacking Trend Targets South Africa’s Wealthiest Province The National Community Police Board of South Africa (NCPS) has issued a warning about a disturbing hijacking trend: hijackers are increasingly targeting drivers at on- and off-ramps of major highways, particularly in Gauteng, South Africa’s wealthiest province. Gauteng: The Economic Powerhouse with Rising Crime Gauteng, known as the economic hub of South Africa, plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy, despite being the smallest province geographically. Home to Johannesburg and Pretoria, Gauteng contributes over a third of South Africa’s GDP. It hosts the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), the largest in Africa, and is…

Promising News for Fuel Prices Month-end data from the Central Energy Fund suggests a reduction in fuel prices across the board, set to take effect on Wednesday, 7 August. Anticipated Price Reductions The data indicates that petrol prices will drop by 7 to 11 cents per liter, while wholesale diesel prices are expected to decrease by 9 to 22 cents per liter. These changes are attributed to a relatively stronger rand against the dollar compared to June and stable global oil prices, which have declined throughout July. Detailed Breakdown of Price Changes Petrol 93: Decrease of 7 cents per liter Petrol 95:…