South Africa

In a significant ruling, the Constitutional Court has deemed a crucial portion of the South African Citizenship Act unconstitutional. This particular clause, which automatically revokes citizenship from South Africans upon acquiring foreign nationality, has now been declared invalid. The court’s decision was unanimous, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s legal landscape. It struck down the offending section of the Citizenship Act, affirming its invalidity from its inception in October 1995. As a result, South…

On a notable day in South African finance, Minister Enoch Godongwana revealed that the 2025 Budget Review would be re-tabled on 21 May 2025. This decision came in the wake of National Treasury’s choice to retract a proposed 0.5% increase in Value Added Tax (VAT), initially scheduled to kick in on 1 May. Reflecting on the public and political discourse that erupted following the initial budget announcement made on 12 March, Godongwana stated, “This debate was rigorous, as is necessary in a healthy democracy.” Such…

Recently, at least 190 families in Cape Town found themselves in a precarious situation, forced to evacuate their homes as flames threatened their neighborhoods. The South Peninsula, a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant community, became a stage for nature’s fury, as fire crews valiantly battled on multiple fronts against at least five active fire lines. The audacity of these blazes is heightened by the fierce winds sweeping across the area. These conditions not only exacerbate the fire's reach but…

In a significant diplomatic gesture, President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the Union Buildings in Pretoria. This marked a historic milestone, as it was the first official visit by a Head of State from Ukraine to South Africa. Such events often carry weighty implications, reflecting the evolving dynamics of international relations and cooperation. The primary aim of President Zelenskyy's visit was to bolster bilateral relations, fostering cooperation across various sectors that could…

In a move that surprised many, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has officially abandoned plans for a 0.5% increase in Value Added Tax (VAT), a change that would have taken effect on May 1. The VAT rate will remain at 15%, offering a momentary sigh of relief for consumers and businesses alike. This decision did not occur in isolation; it stemmed from thorough discussions with various political factions and a meticulous evaluation of recommendations put forth by parliamentary committees. It appears the government is keenly…

South Africa has taken on a significant role as the chair of the G20, embodying the theme "Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability." Recently, the country hosted the second Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting in Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal, under the poignant banner, "Living and Working in an Unequal World: Ensuring Decent Work and Decent Lives." In an age where inequality seems to pervade every corner of society, discussions on gender equality and labor rights are not just timely; they are imperative. As the sun dipped below…

In a decisive move reflecting the evolving geopolitical landscape, South Africa has appointed Mcebisi Jonas as a special envoy to the United States. This strategic decision aims to mitigate the rising diplomatic tensions following Donald Trump's return to the presidency, a development that has stirred considerable discussion both domestically and abroad. President Cyril Ramaphosa, with the weight of his nation's interests on his shoulders, emphasized that Jonas will champion South Africa's diplomatic, trade, and bilateral…

South African President Pledges Resilience Amid U.S. Criticism In a climate of rising geopolitical tension and simmering national issues, President Cyril Ramaphosa has drawn a line in the sand. On Thursday, he resolutely declared that South Africa would not be intimidated, as his administration faced mounting critique from top U.S. representatives, notably President Donald Trump. In a poignant national address, Ramaphosa asserted, "We are witnessing the rise of nationalism, protectionism, and the pursuit of narrow…

G-20 Foreign Ministers Convene in South Africa Amid Mounting Global Tensions The picturesque landscape of South Africa is preparing to host a tumultuous gathering as the G-20 foreign ministers convene this Thursday and Friday. These meetings, routinely marked by ambitious discussions and lofty ideals, are clouded by underlying tensions, primarily fueled by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and lingering trade disagreements. But there's a significant twist this time around—the conspicuous absence of the top U.S. diplomat.…

In a significant move to invigorate local economies, the South African government has initiated applications for the R500-million Spaza Shop Support Fund (SSSF). This initiative aims to enhance the sustainability and growth of spaza shops—those familiar neighborhood convenience stores that serve as lifelines for township and rural communities. During a recent announcement, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, highlighted the transformative potential of this fund. “We are committed to empowering our…