The National Treasury of South Africa has invited taxpayers, tax practitioners, and the public to submit technical tax proposals for the 2024 budget. The proposals should address unintended anomalies, revenue leakages, loopholes, and technical issues within existing tax legislation that require correction. Substantive tax policy proposals are excluded from this invitation, and the proposals must be submitted by November 24, 2023. The National Treasury and the South African Revenue Service will evaluate the proposals, and selected proposals will be considered for inclusion in Annexure C of the 2024 Budget Review.
Cape Town has launched an interactive Waste Recyclers’ Map that connects residents and businesses to certified private recycling service providers. The initiative promotes ecoconscious and sustainable waste management practices by simplifying the process of locating recycling facilities for a wide range of recyclable materials. The city’s commitment to advancing a circular economy through the Waste Recyclers’ Map serves as an example for other cities and nations to follow, highlighting the power of innovation, collaboration, and community involvement in promoting sustainable waste management practices.
As Cape Town gears up for summer, the city’s hospitality industry buzzes with anticipation, transforming the metropolis into a lively epicenter of entertainment and excitement. At the heart of the Mother City, the Radisson RED Waterfront—a premier hotel—has an array of surprises planned for the Festive Season 2023 that will undoubtedly charm both residents and visitors. This vibrant period will mark the introduction of Radisson RED Summer Playlist parties in November and December, paving the way for unforgettable experiences.
The role of politics in South African rugby is debated, particularly in light of Fikile Mbalula’s claim that his tenure as sports minister laid the groundwork for the Springbok’s success. Mbalula contends that he eliminated racial quotas, a move he believes led to Siya Kolisi’s appointment as captain of the team. However, many dispute Mbalula’s claims, and the debate highlights the interplay between politics and sportsmanship. Regardless of politics, the Springbok team’s accomplishments symbolize progress and unity, inspiring hope for South Africans and sports enthusiasts worldwide.
South African rugby, particularly the Springboks, has played a significant role in uniting the nation during difficult times. The team’s recent successful defense of their 2019 title against New Zealand and their message of unity, diversity, and overcoming obstacles continues to inspire South Africans from all walks of life. Springbok captain Siya Kolisi emphasized the team’s role in bridging social divisions and fostering unity during a meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa. Their victory symbolizes unity in a nation facing numerous challenges and serves as a reminder that embracing diversity can help overcome adversity and build a better future.
The Test Kitchen cookbook is a 520page hardbound treasure that unveils the secrets behind Chef Luke Dale Roberts’ famous restaurant’s culinary wonders. It offers meticulous recipes of the restaurant’s iconic dishes, serving as an homage to a memorable era of African fine dining. The book is a memoir, a tribute, and a celebration of Chef Luke Dale Roberts’ culinary prowess and his trailblazing cuisine, and can be purchased for R1500 at various bookstores and Luke Dale Roberts’ restaurants.
The Smile and See Foundation, a Belgiumbased organization, provided lifechanging cataract surgeries for visually impaired patients at the Vredendal Hospital Eye Care Centre in South Africa. Their weeklong efforts successfully carried out 102 surgeries, restoring sight and providing an opportunity for patients to remain economically active and function autonomously. The transformative power of global collaboration between different organizations and individuals was evident in this inspiring instance of unity and teamwork. The impact of these surgeries extends well beyond the improvement of eye health alone, providing a lifeline to numerous families.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile visited China to strengthen the relationship between China and South Africa. He participated in the 8th South AfricaChina BiNational Commission and attended the China International Import Expo to showcase South Africa as a great investment opportunity. During his visit, he engaged with Chinese leaders and stressed the thriving economic collaboration between the two nations. This visit solidifies the foundation of 25 years of diplomatic relations and historical ties dating back to the Bandung Conference in 1955.
The Tourism Equity Fund in South Africa is a new R1.2 billion project that seeks to promote expansion, transformation, and inclusivity in the tourism sector. The Fund offers financial aid and support to Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises, prioritizing job creation, sustainability, and targeted groups such as youth, women, and disabled individuals. The Department of Tourism and the Small Enterprise Finance Agency are collaborating with banks and financial institutions to ensure the successful implementation of the TEF and promote a more inclusive and prosperous tourism sector.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has achieved a remarkable milestone of producing and delivering one million vehicle driving licence discs. To mark the occasion, RTMC CEO Advocate Makhosini Msibi personally presented the millionth disc to Mr. Lukie Mashishi in Ivory Park, Tembisa. The NaTIS online system, a governmentprovided service, has rapidly grown into the most reliable and costeffective platform for renewing motor vehicle licenses across South Africa since its launch in February 2022.
South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Naledi Pandor, and her Ukrainian counterpart, Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kubela, are scheduled to participate in political dialogues on November 6, 2023. The meeting aims to fortify diplomatic relations between South Africa and Ukraine by discovering mutual understanding on pressing matters, harmonizing interests, and exploring opportunities for partnership. Discussions will also include cultural and economic exchanges between the two nations.
The City of Cape Town is seeking public feedback on proposed traffic calming measures to improve pedestrian safety, especially in school zones where vulnerable road users are most prevalent. Feedback can be given through email, written responses, or inperson submissions. The initiative is dependent on funding availability, and the city aims to implement the measures across various locations. The city is emphasizing the importance of community involvement in the planning process to create a safer and more pedestrianfriendly environment.
The City of Cape Town is seeking public feedback on proposed traffic calming measures to enhance pedestrian safety in various neighborhoods. Residents can provide their opinions on the plans, which are available on the city’s website and at various subcouncil offices and libraries. The city is offering special assistance to disadvantaged groups to ensure their input is documented and submitted. Cape Town’s approach to involving local communities in urban planning serves as an example for others to follow in creating safer and more inclusive cities.
Cape Town’s Urban Mobility Directorate is seeking public feedback on proposed traffic calming measures for 14 communities, including school zones, to protect vulnerable road users. Residents can view the proposed designs and provide feedback through various channels until December 2, 2023. The City is dedicated to addressing each site and highlights the critical role of public participation in the decisionmaking process. Various channels are available for submitting feedback, including inperson at various Subcouncil offices and libraries throughout affected communities, ensuring all voices are heard.
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga inaugurated the R37 national road in Burgersfort, Limpopo Province on November 3rd, 2023, after a R780 million partnership with SANRAL to upgrade the road between Burgersfort and Polokwane, promoting better connectivity and addressing traffic demands and road safety concerns. The project aims to link rural areas to Central Business Districts, fostering socioeconomic activity for communities. Additionally, Minister Chikunga distributed Shova Kalula bicycles to selected learners in the Sekhukhune District Municipality, emphasizing the significance of connectivity for education and development.
South Africa is preparing for six municipal ward byelections on November 8th, 2023, across four provinces. 25 candidates from 11 different political parties are competing for seats in their respective wards, making the upcoming elections a critical test for political parties and their candidates. With a diverse range of contenders and different voter turnout percentages in previous elections, South Africa’s political environment is experiencing a dynamic period of growth and transformation. The candidates, their parties, and the voters all have a crucial role in shaping the future of their respective municipalities and the country as a whole.