The National Business Initiative (NBI) and the City of Cape Town have launched a program to enhance artisan skills in learners, with 31 students accommodated by the Facilities Management department for handson training. The initiative is a breakthrough for ambitious young learners seeking to hone their artisan skills and serves as a guiding light for the sector. The program is a stepping stone towards eradicating barriers to economic involvement in the city, with a vision to expand and polish the artisan skills of learners for future employment in the field.
The MyCiTi bus service is expanding with five new temporary stops in Khayelitsha, Atlantis, and Woodstock. These new stops will simplify residents’ commutes to schools and commercial centres, and the increased frequency of weekday trips will improve commuting conditions. MyCiTi’s commitment to offering dependable, costeffective, and userfriendly transportation is exemplified by this expansion, which begins on March 23, 2024.
Money plays a critical role in South African politics, particularly as the 2024 general elections approach. The Outlier, a data journalism platform, has analyzed the financial backers of political parties, revealing the significant influence of wealthy individuals and families such as Martin Moshal and the Oppenheimers. The financial strength of parties will undoubtedly shape the country’s political landscape, with the African National Congress potentially losing its position after three decades in power.
India’s hair trade, renowned for providing *highquality* human hair, is facing a crisis caused by a *secretive hair smuggling ring*. The illegal operation transports hair to *China, the largest consumer base for Indian hair exporters*, via Myanmar and Bangladesh, potentially causing *job losses of up to 411,000*. The Indian government introduced new regulations in January 2022, but *stricter enforcement may be required* to combat this illicit trade worth $1.5 billion.
Patricia De Lille, leader of the GOOD Party, has proposed increasing South Africa’s Basic Income Grant from R350 to roughly R1,000 to help those living in poverty. She also advocates for government reformation, professionalisation of the public service, eradication of corruption, and implementation of tax amendments. De Lille’s manifesto also emphasizes investment in public infrastructure and affordable, basic services, and financial support for small businesses. The proposal aims to rebalance society and provide a safety net for those struggling with poverty while revitalizing the South African economy.
**The Role of The City Chartered Accountant Academy in Advancing Public Sector Accounting**
The City Chartered Accountant Academy in Cape Town is a vital institution that advances public sector accounting by training and fostering topnotch accounting professionals. It offers unique opportunities to aspiring Chartered Accountants by bringing the training directly to the candidates. The Academy has a reputation for itself as a strategic investment that brings substantial returns and shapes the future of public sector accounting. Its influence goes beyond just creating successful Chartered Accountants, with many of its graduates occupying pivotal positions within the City.
Cape Town is building two innovative MyCiTi depots on Spine Road and Mew Way to provide reliable and safe public transport to the city’s lowincome households. The project, partially funded by the Dutch government, is expected to be completed in May 2025 and will create temporary job opportunities and fuel local businesses. Despite facing extortion attempts, the project is 65% complete, and the depots will house an initial fleet of 290 buses and serve as multipurpose facilities hosting administrative offices, boardrooms, training spaces, and amenities for staff and drivers.
The revival of the National Taxi Relief Fund is a government program that provides financial support to taxi operators in South Africa who meet certain criteria. The program aims to improve infrastructure and empower taxi operators, and is implemented by the National Empowerment Fund. The government has been working closely with the taxi industry to improve public transportation and address issues such as poverty and unemployment. This includes investments in rail and road infrastructure, as well as sustainable empowerment projects under the Revised Taxi Recapitalisation Programme. The revival of the National Taxi Relief Fund is a significant step towards building a more inclusive and efficient public transport system in South Africa.
Devonbosch is a new urban development that focuses on sustainability, community, and innovation. Its unique architectural masterpiece, Building B North, is made up of ten distinct structures that create a microcosm within the larger building. Devonbosch offers a cyclist’s paradise, fitness options, community spaces, and an Italian restaurant called Ischia. The development is committed to sustainability, community engagement, and technological advancements, making it an attractive investment opportunity for the forwardthinking.
Australian billionaire Clive Palmer has announced plans to construct a replica of the Titanic, named Titanic II, which will be “far, far superior than the original”. The project has been in the works for over a decade and faced multiple obstacles, but construction is set to begin in 2022 with the inaugural sail scheduled for June 2027. The project is more than just a display of wealth, but a tribute to human ambition and progress.
Understanding the Role of Youth in Tourism: Insights from Deputy Minister, Fish Mahlalela
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela, gave a powerful speech at the Sharing of Best Practices Workshop, emphasizing the vital role of youth in the tourism industry and the global economy. He called for creative strategies to empower and celebrate young individuals, especially those in developing nations. Mahlalela highlighted the impact of the recent health crisis on the tourism sector and urged for collective efforts towards recovery, including supporting small businesses and providing opportunities for youth in tourism and hospitality. He expressed optimism for a more inclusive, innovative, and interconnected future for the industry.
Moedi Wines, a South African wine brand led by Lesego Serolong Holzapfel, gained international recognition at ProWein 2024 in Germany. The brand promotes sustainable practices, African heritage, and local communities, and donates 10% of its profits to support honey farmers and scholarships for orphans in rural areas. With a range of single varietals from the Swartland region, Moedi Wines offers highquality wine while supporting rural beekeepers and promoting biodiversity.
The sudden termination of the deal between South African Airways (SAA) and Takatso has dealt a significant blow to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s privatization strategy and raised doubts about the future of struggling public enterprises. The government has faced opposition within its ranks concerning privatization and will need to rethink its approach and draw in more private investment. The termination of the deal marks the beginning of a new episode where the outcomes remain unpredictable.
Edwin Sodi, a wellknown entrepreneur, has relisted his luxurious mansion in Morningside, valued at R75 million, for sale after repurchasing it from the Asset Forfeiture Unit. The mansion features five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a gym, a Jacuzzi, and a swimming pool with a deck spread across 4000 square metres. However, Sodi’s alleged involvement in several contentious tenders has led to legal disputes, making the mansion a symbol of the spoils and perils of highrisk entrepreneurship. Despite the controversy, the mansion continues to generate buzz in the real estate market.
Africa is a continent full of untapped potential, with a spirit of innovation and optimism that was showcased at the Global Entrepreneurship Congress Africa. Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile emphasized the importance of cultivating an environment conducive to entrepreneurship, preparing Africa for the digital future, and addressing the issue of ‘braindrain.’ He encapsulated a vision of an innovative and digitally ready Africa that actively shapes its future, with collaboration, effective policies, and support for entrepreneurship being crucial. Overall, the congress stands as a beacon of hope for a brighter future in Africa.
The South AfricaGhana BiNational Commission brought together two powerful African nations to discuss infrastructure projects, political relations, and their shared economy. Presidents Ramaphosa and AkufoAddo expressed enthusiasm for strengthening their partnership and developing Africa’s future growth. The leaders evaluated their mutual collaboration and signed new Memoranda of Understanding to enhance political and economic ties, while also addressing challenges and expanding opportunities through trade and collaboration. The power of dialogue and cooperation highlighted the strength of their partnership and forecast a brighter future for Africa.