As the 2023 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) draws near, the National Treasury Communications Unit has invited journalists to participate in a virtual PreBudget consultative meeting. This conference will not only discuss the content of the forthcoming MTBPS but will also address the logistical aspects of the lockup sessions.

In the face of rapid urbanization, cities across the globe are continuously evolving. Cape Town is no exception, as it recently embarked on a journey to revise its Urban Design Policy. This ambitious initiative aims to provide guidance for creating functional, attractive, safe, environmentally sustainable, economically viable, and socially equitable spaces. As the city gathers feedback from its residents, this article explores the principles and objectives of this revised policy and examines its potential impact on the urban landscape and its inhabitants.

In response to the fiscal challenges currently impacting government departments and provincial treasuries, the National Treasury released a letter on 31 August 2023 highlighting specific measures necessary to attain savings and avoid resource constraints during the latter part of the 2023/24 financial year. This article serves as a guide for accounting officers and authorities on the implementation of the measures discussed in the August letter. It is crucial to note that both the August letter and these guidelines are meant to provide guidance, not issue directives.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa recently took to the stage at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, fervently urging world leaders to focus on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Comprising 17 global targets, the SDGs aim to eradicate poverty, protect the environment, and foster worldwide prosperity by 2030.

The picturesque landscapes of Limpopo province in South Africa became the backdrop for a tragic event on September 17, 2023. A severe collision on D2692 Venetia Road, situated between Musina and De Beers mine, resulted in 22 fatalities and four injuries. Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga expressed profound grief and sadness over the devastating loss of lives, offering her sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.

The North West Province in South Africa is on the brink of an extraordinary transformation as various local businesses, multinational organizations, and government entities pledge over 100 billion worth of investments. This comes after the recent Premier’s Dinner with investors, held at the Sun City Superbowl, which aimed to accelerate the coordination of investments in the region. Acting Premier Nono Maloyi, along with Members of the Executive Council, Executive Mayors, senior government managers, and StateOwned Enterprises representatives, led the charge.

In an effort to serve justice to the victims of a horrifying crime, the Gauteng Serious and Violent Crimes Unit has made a public appeal for help in locating two men believed to be linked to a recent business robbery and murder in the Orlando police precinct. Through an official statement from the South African Police Service (SAPS), the unit has requested the community’s support in providing any information that could lead to the successful location of these individuals, as they possess crucial information that could greatly contribute to the ongoing investigation.

During the recent HighLevel Partnership for Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (PMNCH) event at the UN General Assembly in New York, President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of safeguarding the wellbeing of women, children, and adolescents worldwide. The PMNCH gathering marked a pivotal moment in the journey towards providing a healthier future for these susceptible groups.

As the fourthlargest province in South Africa, Western Cape is gearing up for its annual budget cycle. The Provincial Economic Review and Outlook (PERO) will be presented by Mireille Wenger, Western Cape’s MEC of Finance and Economic Opportunities, at the Provincial Parliament on 21st September 2023. This critical report includes data trends and analysis on sectoral development, labor markets, and socioeconomic dynamics, paving the way for budgetary decisions and policy responses to be unveiled later this year in the MediumTerm Budget Policy Statement.

The Goodwood social housing megaproject is on the verge of completion, heralding a new era of affordable rental opportunities for over 1,000 families in Cape Town. This monumental project, set to begin tenanting in November 2023, is a shining example of the power of collaboration between different stakeholders to foster urban transformation and social integration.

City enforcement agencies have recently had a challenging week as they face a 41% increase in assault cases. Although the overall number of arrests has fallen during this time, the significant rise in violence has prompted the city’s Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) and the Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security to confront these growing issues.

Cape Town, a flourishing city adorned with stunning mountain and sea views, is set to transform the spatial planning of its vibrant Central Business District (CBD). To promote the CBD’s ongoing economic success while making it more livable, inclusive, and resilient, the City of Cape Town intends to establish a local spatial development framework (LSDF).

In a groundbreaking effort to enhance the connection between the City of Cape Town and the communities it serves, the local government has introduced its Mobile Office initiative. This program is designed to bring municipal services closer to the residents of Wolwerivier, Nomzamo, Macassar, Lotus River, and Blackheath by establishing temporary offices in various community halls and municipal buildings. In addition to providing access to the City’s Basket of Services and engaging with Human Settlements staff, the initiative encourages residents to take advantage of these offerings.

The trial of seven Chinese nationals charged with human trafficking and child labour has been delayed until Thursday, 21 September. This postponement allows the defendants time to secure funds for their legal representation. J. Kruger, the counsel for the accused, announced his intention to withdraw from the case due to nonpayment by the main accused.