South Africa’s Ministry of Finance has made history by appointing Ms. Yanga Mputa as the nation’s first female Tax Ombud. This momentous appointment, effective from July 1, 2023, marks a significant milestone in South Africa’s tax administration system. ## Ms. Mputa’s Impressive Career

The AfCFTA Workshops: Informing South African Businesses and SMEs on the Benefits of Trading Under the Agreement The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (the dtic) along with the City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality, Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, and the Western Cape Tourism, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Wesgro) are organizing a workshop on the implementation and operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA). Scheduled for July 7, 2023, at the Southern Sun Cape Sun Hotel, this workshop is part of a series aimed at enlightening South African businesses and exportready Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) on the benefits of trading under the AfCFTA.

Gauteng MEC for Transport and Logistics, Kedibone DialeTlabela, has launched the registration of vehicle number plate manufacturers. The initiative is aimed at promoting and encouraging embossers to become legalized manufacturers of number plates, ensuring compliance with existing regulations. ## The Need for Secure and TamperProof Number Plates

South Africa recently concluded its Youth Month Commemorations, which highlighted the importance of addressing the socioeconomic needs of the younger generation. To create sustainable livelihoods for young people, the South African government has called for collaboration between businesses, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has prevented a potential business robbery and kidnapping of a foreign businessman in Bellville, Western Cape, through proactive policing. On June 30, 2023, the National Intervention Task Team members, acting on intelligencedriven information, apprehended seven suspects in two separate locations in Bellville.

Cape Town’s recent heavy rains brought the city’s dam levels to a staggering 97.1%, leading residents to ponder the longterm implications of such a drastic change. However, city officials warn against a false sense of water security and emphasize the need for infrastructure beyond dams to ensure the city’s water supply.

Bredasdorp, a charming town located in the Cape Agulhas region, has recently introduced a new affordable housing project that aims to provide homeownership opportunities to firsttime buyers. The Mill Park Development, a joint venture between the provincial Department of Infrastructure and the Cape Agulhas Municipality, is a groundbreaking initiative that strives to address the shortage of affordable housing in the area.

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s dedication to addressing South Africa’s pressing challenges and fostering international relations is evident in his packed agenda. Here are some of the highlights of his public program: ### Working Visit with South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit

The Motheo Innovation Centre was inaugurated on June 30th, 2023, in Centurion, Pretoria, as a testament to South Africa’s commitment to empowering the youth, women, and Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). The Centre, established through the collaboration of the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) and Software AG, is a beacon of hope for South African entrepreneurs seeking to harness the power of technology for sustainable growth.