MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for African

African

Congratulations Dricus du Plessis for winning UFC

Location: News

Congratulations Dricus du Plessis for winning UFC

Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa has congratulated mixed martial artist, Dricus du Plessis, for winning the United Fighting Championship (UFC) Middleweight title.

Du Plessis made history on Sunday as South Africa’s first UFC champion when he defeated American Sean Strickland.

“Du Plessis has flown the South African flag high with his performances in the UFC. I congratulate him on the remarkable achievement of being the first South African to be crowned UFC Champion.

“It has been particularly special to see South Africans unite in their diversity to support their own, as Du Plessis made history. This once again shows the power of South Africans when uniting and supporting their own. Let us carry this spirit, as South Africans continue to make history on global platforms in sport, arts and culture,” Kodwa said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 08:58

461 views
Read moreCongratulations Dricus du Plessis for winning UFC

Infinite Family Provides Matrics 2023 Video Mentoring With Record 97% Pass Rate

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg/New York 22 January 2024: Infinite Family (IF), South Africa’s primary video mentoring organisation, delivers a 90% Bachelors and Diploma pass rate to their 2023 Matrics. “Out of a total of 18 matric ‘Net Buddies’ across all three video lab sites, we have 14 who have achieved Batchelors qualifications, and two with Diploma status,” says …

Read moreInfinite Family Provides Matrics 2023 Video Mentoring With Record 97% Pass Rate

EPA Track & Field First League Results At NMU Stadium – Saturday, 20 January 2024

Location: MyPR

The EPA Track & Field season started on a high note last weekend with 202 athletes competing in 278 events. EPA hosts the Track & Field events in partnership with the NMBM as part of their ongoing Legacy Project. Riaan Barnard, EPA Track & Field Chairperson, was thrilled with the turnout of the athletes, clubs …

Read moreEPA Track & Field First League Results At NMU Stadium – Saturday, 20 January 2024

Education is the most powerful weapon against poverty, says President Ramaphosa 

Location: News

Education is the most powerful weapon against poverty, says President Ramaphosa 

As the nation commemorates three decades of democracy this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended the accomplishments of the class of 2023 matriculants, saying their success bears testament to the strides taken to enhance accessibility and equality in education.

“This year marks 30 years since South Africa became a democracy with equal rights, dignity and freedoms for all. The achievements of last year's matriculants show the progress we have made not only in making education more accessible, but also in making it more equal,” the President said in his weekly newsletter on Monday.  

President Ramaphosa said the matric exam pass rate has been consistently improving over the past decade, from 78% ten years ago to 80% in 2022, with a new record now set by the class of 2023. 

He said the country has high expectations of young South Africans who hope to sit for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exam this year. He encouraged this year's cohort to draw inspiration from their predecessors, and challenged them to set their sights even higher. 

“The class of 2023 has made our nation proud. The matric results released last week showed an 82.9% pass rate for the cohort of matriculants who sat for the NSC exam last year. This is the highest pass rate obtained since the NSC was introduced in 2008 and is a stellar achievement,” he said.  

The President said by 2010, South Africa had attained the Millennium Development Goal of universal primary education. Since then, the country has made steady progress in improving secondary school and post-school outcomes. 

The President asserted that education is about so much more than personal betterment or obtaining a qualification to seek gainful employment. He said it is a ladder out of poverty. 

“In a country such as ours, universal access to education is by far the most impactful intervention in breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty. It is our most effective weapon to overcome the effects of centuries of racism, discrimination and marginalisation of the black majority. 

“To support young people on their learning journey and increase their prospects of completing school, the democratic State provides various forms of social protection to cushion vulnerable and indigent learners from the worst effects of poverty.  

“These interventions include, among others, Early Childhood Development, social grants, a nationwide school nutrition programme and no-fee schools,” the President said. 

Government also continues to invest heavily in improving school infrastructure, including school sanitation, and in the provision of teacher and learner support materials to schools in poor districts. 

To enable eligible young people from poor families to further their studies, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funds the costs of their education. 

“While we are proud of all our matriculants, we are particularly proud of the young people who have succeeded in the face of great hardship and adversity.

“Included in the cohort of successful matriculants from last year are young people with disabilities, childcare grant beneficiaries, learners from child-headed households, orphans, those from informal settlements and those from some of the poorest districts in the country,” the President said. 

Of the 110 top performing learners in last year's NSC exam, 62 were social grant beneficiaries. In 2023, matriculants, who receive some form of social grant, together achieved more than 160 000 distinctions, and more than 200 000 qualified for university entrance. 

Learners from no-fee paying schools constituted more than 65% of the total Bachelor passes obtained. Three of the country's most rural provinces - Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo - contributed 59% of total passes with distinction. 

“Of those who have now completed their secondary education, some will go on to further their studies and others will seek employment. I encourage all of society to reward the achievements of the many young people who have successfully passed secondary school by making more opportunities available to them. 

“As government we have made the call for businesses to invest in our nation's future by employing more young people and, where possible, to do away with the requirement of prior work experience. 

“I encourage companies to use the Employee Tax Incentive to hire more young job-seekers, to make more training and mentorship opportunities available, and to sign up with the Youth Employment Service and other initiatives being rolled out in partnership with government,” President Ramaphosa said. 

For the many young people from disadvantaged backgrounds who passed matric this year, the President emphasised that being given an opportunity to work or study further is a way out of poverty. He further urged that these young people must be given the hope and chance they need. 

“As a country, we have laid the important groundwork for equitable access to education and ensured that young people are supported to finish school. It is now up to all of society to work together to ensure that every South African, young and old, is lifted out of poverty, given access to decent work and an opportunity to fulfil their true potential,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za 

DikelediM
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 09:08

750 views
Read moreEducation is the most powerful weapon against poverty, says President Ramaphosa 

Zulu congratulates social grant beneficiaries for passing Grade 12 

Location: News

Zulu congratulates social grant beneficiaries for passing Grade 12 

Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu has praised the Grade 12 students, who benefit from Social Development services and have successfully completed the 2023 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams.

Of the 897 775 Grade 12 learners who wrote their NSC, 543 786 full-time learners were social grant beneficiaries, with 62 out of 110 social grant beneficiaries amongst the top performing learners in different categories, as awarded by the Department of Basic Education (DBE). 

According to the department, social grant beneficiaries formed the largest number of learners who wrote their 2023 National Senior Certificate and 441 871 learners passed the NSC examinations which is an overall pass rate of 82.9%. 

About 202 156 received a Bachelor's pass, which gains them access to institutions of higher learning, with 160 326 distinctions.  

The Minister said that the child support grant formed the biggest grant type received by these learners, with the majority of them from KwaZulu-Natal, the second-best performing province after Free State.

The South African Constitution, through the Child Justice Act, also obligates the state to provide care and support services to children in conflict with the law, including educational opportunities. 

According to the data from the Departments of Basic Education and Social Development, 1 630 children in conflict with the law  registered for the 2023 NSC. 
 
“Providing educational opportunities for children in conflict with the law is a key element of rehabilitating and re-integrating them back into society. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (the CRC), which South Africa ratified in 1995, recognises the importance of education for children in conflict with the law,” Zulu said.  

The Minister detailed that the Social Development sector has been integrating the social protection administrative data system to ensure better coordination of services and tracking of health and educational outcomes for beneficiaries of various government services aimed at tackling child and adult poverty. 

She asserted that the linking and sharing of administrative data systems within the social cluster departments - Social Development, SASSA, Department of Basic Education, and NSFAS - ensure information is shared on the academic performance of social grant beneficiaries.

“One such success story of the benefits of linking and sharing of data systems was the agreement between Social Development and NSFAS on the exemption of social grants beneficiaries from the means test, a decision that has significantly bridged the higher education gap as it opened the doors of learning for many, regardless of their socioeconomic background,” the Minister said. 

Zulu emphasised that education has the power to break the cycle of poverty and transform lives. By accessing education opportunities at institutions of higher learning, she said, many social grants beneficiaries have succeeded in creating a better future for themselves and their families, thus breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty and inequality. 

“The benefits of social grants extend beyond individual beneficiaries to broader society. Our government’s pro-poor policies such as our social assistance programme, no-fee schools, school nutrition, school uniforms, free health care including sanitary dignity packs have made significant impact over the past 30 years in reducing poverty by bridging the education gap for learners from impoverished backgrounds. We will continue to build on the success of these impactful interventions that have lifted many of our people out of poverty," Zulu said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 12:10

268 views
Read moreZulu congratulates social grant beneficiaries for passing Grade 12 

South Africa concludes tough but productive trip to World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024

Location: News

National Treasury, Republic of South Africa
Download logo

South Africa's delegation to the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024 Annual Meeting in Davos used the platform to meaningfully engage investors, civil society, businesses and governments, and drove home the message that the country remains a top destination for growth and investment. The delegation was led by the Minister of Finance, Mr Enoch Godongwana and comprised of Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Mr Ebrahim Patel, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Mr Mondli Gungubele, and Minister of Health Dr Joe Phaahla, Brand South Africa, business executives, entrepreneurs and civil society leaders.

The overall WEF 2024 theme, Rebuilding Trust, underlined South Africa's continued role as a regional and global leader in the international community. Minister Godongwana said that South Africa's participation in global forums such as WEF Davos reinforced their belief in the value of multilateralism and the spirit of cooperation as a critical part of an overall strategy to lift economic growth. He added that countries stood to benefit from the common pursuit of a fairer, more inclusive, and representative global system.

The South African delegation tackled questions on the progress the country is making in economic reforms, particularly in areas of energy, transport and logistics, and fighting crime.

“We took the opportunity of the WEF Davos gathering to remind our partners around the world that South Africa has made tremendous progress in the past 30 years since we achieved democracy,” said Minister Godongwana. “Yes, we face a number of obstacles to achieving policy that balances fiscal sustainability, growth-accelerating reforms, and targeted spending on social services and infrastructure. We are forging ahead and making good progress.”

The Annual WEF meeting, which took place from 15 to 19 January 2024, offered South Africa's policymakers a genuine and rare opportunity to speak directly with a cross spectrum of stakeholders in global affairs, exchanging views on how to weather the rise in geopolitical and economic tensions that are shaping today's world.

Climate, technology, trade and multilateral cooperation were high on the agenda, as was South Africa's upcoming presidency of the G20 in 2025. In addition to its participation in the G20, the country is playing a key part in the expansion of the BRICS group, as well as the deepening of intercontinental economic integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Speaking at a panel on the BRICS in Expansion, which was inked in August 2023 at a summit in Johannesburg, Minister Godongwana stressed the importance the bloc is playing in reforming international decision-making bodies to better reflect contemporary power and economic realities.

“Although individual economic circumstances amongst BRICS+ will vary, there will be common interests that will allow the bloc to forge consensus on the urgency of sustainable economic development,” said Minister Godongwana. “The expansion will help the BRICS Group to be the voice of the global south.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Treasury, Republic of South Africa.

Read moreSouth Africa concludes tough but productive trip to World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024

Minister Senzo Mchunu calls on water sector to prioritise providing adequate water and sanitation services to public

Location: News

Department of Water and Sanitation, Republic of South Africa
Download logo

Minister Mchunu calls on the water sector to set aside egos and prioritise providing adequate water and sanitation services to the public

In a bid to improve performance of the water sector and its services to the public, Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, has called for the sector to suspend its ego and prioritise professionalism.

The Minister made these remarks during the two-day Water Services Authorities Summit held on Thursday 18 and Friday 19, January 2024 at the Emperors Palace, Kempton Park, Gauteng.

The purpose of the summit was to review the progress assessment reports, find the underlying reasons for poor and good performance, and collectively develop a plan to reverse the decline in performance.

Attending the summit were Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Thembi Nkadimeng, Water and Sanitation Deputy Ministers, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, as well as provincial and local government representatives including Mayors, MMCs, Municipal Managers and technical officials of the 144 Water Services Authorities across the country. Also, in attendance and participation were representatives from various institutions including the water boards, the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agency (MISA), National and Provincial Treasury, professional bodies, training organisations, whose wide range of support relate to funding, capacity building, professionalisation, engineering, financial management and governance. These institutions were critical elements in the process of developing and implementing improvement plans for the WSAs.

Setting the scene, Minister Mchunu gave an overview of the state of water in the country according to the previous Blue, Green, and No Drop reports released in December 2023.

He further highlighted that the Drop certifications were initially introduced 16 years ago in 2008, with annual reports being released from 2009 until 2014. These reports served as an effective regulatory mechanism, evaluating water and sanitation services, incentivising municipalities to improve their performance, and guiding areas for enhancement.

In recent years, the water sector in South Africa has faced numerous challenges, with reports showing a decline in the quality of drinking water and wastewater, as well as an increase in potable water losses. These issues have caused great concern among the public, particularly regarding the growing percentage of drinking water systems failing to meet both national and international compliance standards as revealed by these assessments. 

“We have resuscitated the assessments and are committed to preventing similar mistakes in the future,” Minister Mchunu said.

Minister Mchunu's call for the water sector to suspend its ego stems from the need to prioritise professionalism and service delivery to the public to address the decline in performance.

The Minister emphasised that the non-provision of clean drinking water and a clean environment goes against people's basic human rights, as outlined in the Bill of Rights in the Constitution. It is therefore imperative that the water sector takes immediate action to address these challenges.

Following extensive discussions, several recommendations were put forward to improve the water sector and enhance water and sanitation services for the public. Notably, it was agreed that Water Service Authorities should make fundamental changes in the manner that they deliver water and sanitation services. This by either considering establishing their own entities or creating special-purpose vehicles as water service providers. This would allow for greater accountability and efficiency in the provision of water and sanitation services.

Municipalities have been categorised into four groups based on their Drop scores during discussions on how to improve.

The first group comprised 67 municipalities that have an average 'critical' score in their water supply and/or wastewater systems in the 2023 and 2022 full Green Drop. The second group consisted of 38 municipalities that had an average 'poor' score in their water supply and/or wastewater systems in the 2023 and 2022 full Green Drop. The third group includes 27 municipalities that have an average 'average' score in their water supply and/or wastewater systems in the 2023 full Blue Drop and 2022 full Green Drop. Lastly, the fourth group comprised 12 municipalities that have an average 'good' or 'excellent' score in their water supply and/or wastewater systems in the 2023 full Blue Drop and 2022 full Green Drop.

The 105 municipalities who are in the critical, poor and average categories were urged to utilise consider appointing reputable, credible, and competent water service providers for the next two to three years. This move would help address the current gaps in service delivery and ensure that communities have access to clean and reliable water sources. This could be in a form of another municipality that performed well in their assessments scores in all reports, a water board or a competent private water services provider.

Another important area of focus is the review of implementing agents, with an emphasis on capacity building. The Directors- General of the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), COGTA, South African Local Government Association (SALGA), and the provincial and Local Government will collaborate to strengthen the capacity of implementing agents, the water sector will be better equipped to deliver on its mandate and meet the needs of the public.

Deputy Minister Mahlobo, who was also speaking at the summit, announced recommendations and a way forward on finance, security, and corruption.

One of the major recommendations made was the strengthening of the budget for water and sanitation services. This will include relooking at budget allocation to ensure that more funds are allocated towards provision of these services of the public.

Deputy Minister Mahlobo emphasised the importance of infrastructure security in ensuring uninterrupted water services. He urged all municipalities to develop and execute reliable infrastructure security plans, which should include the use of technology such as remote fencing and a rapid response system to combat theft and vandalism of infrastructure. These measures will not only protect the vital water infrastructure but also ensure a reliable supply of water to the public.

The Deputy Minister also announced the formation of a multi-disciplinary security cluster consisting of Ministers and Mayors. This cluster will be responsible for leading intelligence operations and prosecutions against elements that hinder service delivery such as vandals, mafia as well as saboteurs of water infrastructure. The team will also be tasked with screening technical division officials for lifestyle, integrity, morality, and community involvement, thereby ensuring that only the most qualified and dedicated individuals are entrusted with the responsibility of providing water services.

In his closing remarks, Minister Mchunu said the provision of reliable quality drinking water to citizens must be treated with priority and necessary urgency. The decline in water quality and increase in water losses were pressing issues that demanded immediate attention. By implementing the recommendations put forward, such as the establishment of dedicated entities or special purpose vehicles, and the appointment of reputable service providers, the water sector can make significant strides towards meeting the needs and rights of the public. Though the challenges are great, with a unified effort and a commitment to collaboration, a positive change is indeed possible.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Water and Sanitation, Republic of South Africa.

Read moreMinister Senzo Mchunu calls on water sector to prioritise providing adequate water and sanitation services to public

Team South Africa returns from tough, productive WEF annual meeting – Treasury

Location: News

Team South Africa returns from tough, productive WEF annual meeting - Treasury

The South African delegation to the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting has returned back to SA, having driven home the message that the country remains a "top destination for growth and investment”.

This is according to a media statement released by National Treasury on Monday.

Team South Africa’s delegation was led by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and comprised the Ministers of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel; Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande; Communications and Digital Technologies Mondli Gungubele, and Health, Dr Joe Phaahla.

Godongwana said the message to investors, civil society, businesses and governments is that despite the many challenges it faces, South Africa is making progress.

“We took the opportunity of the WEF Davos gathering to remind our partners around the world that South Africa has made tremendous progress in the past 30 years since we achieved democracy.

“Yes, we face a number of obstacles to achieving policy that balances fiscal sustainability, growth-accelerating reforms, and targeted spending on social services and infrastructure. However, we are forging ahead and making good progress,” he said.

According to National Treasury, the annual meeting – held last week in Davos, Switzerland – offered an opportunity for South Africa to engage world leaders on a number of issues.

“[It] offered South Africa’s policymakers a genuine and rare opportunity to speak directly with a cross spectrum of stakeholders in global affairs, exchanging views on how to weather the rise in geopolitical and economic tensions that are shaping today’s world.

“Climate, technology, trade and multilateral cooperation were high on the agenda, as was South Africa’s upcoming presidency of the G20 in 2025.

“In addition to its participation in the G20, the country is playing a key part in the expansion of the BRICS group, as well as the deepening of intercontinental economic integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 14:46

63 views
Read moreTeam South Africa returns from tough, productive WEF annual meeting – Treasury

Head Concierge Deon Prinsloo bids Palazzo Hotel farewell after 15 years

Location: MyPR

This ends his 15-year-long career as head concierge and guest relations manager at the award-winning luxury hotel Deon Prinsloo worked as head concierge and guest relations manager at the Palazzo Hotel in Johannesburg for nearly 15 years and is leaving the hotel to pursue his long-term dream. Prinsloo has worked in the hospitality sectors locally …

Read moreHead Concierge Deon Prinsloo bids Palazzo Hotel farewell after 15 years

Mashatile to welcome Duke of Edinburgh on working visit to S Africa  

Location: News

Mashatile to welcome Duke of Edinburgh on working visit to S Africa  

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Tuesday welcome His Royal Highness Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, on a courtesy call at the OR Tambo Official Residence in Pretoria. 

The Duke of Edinburgh is on a working visit to South Africa on 22 and 23 January 2024. 

According to the Deputy President’s Office, the visit follows the successful State Visit that President Cyril Ramaphosa undertook to the United Kingdom in 2022 at the invitation of King Charles III. 

“The visit also indicates the strong bilateral relationship that the United Kingdom and South Africa share,” a statement from the Deputy President’s Office read. 

During his visit, His Royal Highness will meet stakeholders from WWF South Africa, Endangered Wildlife Trust, GreenMatterZA, TRAFFIC, International Union for Conservation of Nature, Birdlife, and Conservation South Africa. 

Prince Edward will also meet the Forestry, Fisheries and Environment Minister, Barbara Creecy, for a tour of the Pretoria National Botanical Garden.

He will be accompanied on the tour by the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) CEO, Shonisani Munzhedi. 

This comes after President Ramaphosa visited the Royal Botanical Garden, Kew, in November 2022, and will mark the long-term collaboration between Kew and SANBI to ensure the survival of South Africa’s rich plant diversity. 

Prince Edward is also expected to engage with Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande at a dinner marking the deep partnership between South Africa and the United Kingdom in the field of science and innovation.

In addition, the Duke of Edinburgh will meet the awardees of the President’s Awards, the international arm of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, of which President Ramaphosa is a patron. 

“Both countries share a strong commitment to youth empowerment,” the statement said.

During the courtesy call, Deputy President Mashatile will also hold discussions with the Duke and his delegation on key areas of importance in the bilateral relationship between South Africa and the United Kingdom. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Mon, 01/22/2024 - 09:51

231 views
Read moreMashatile to welcome Duke of Edinburgh on working visit to S Africa  

Lalibela Game Reserve appoints Scout to promote its six luxury lodges in the Eastern Cape

Location: MyPR

Located in a unique multi-biomed area of the Eastern Cape in South Africa is a conservation project that doubles as a tourism business. Lalibela Game Reserve’s 10 500 hectares are home to the Big 5, vast herds of plains game, a slew of predators including cheetah, hyena, jackal and lynx, and exciting birdlife. It has …

Read moreLalibela Game Reserve appoints Scout to promote its six luxury lodges in the Eastern Cape

Tax Ombud secures taxpayer’s refund and interest of more than R135 000

Location: News

Tax Ombud secures taxpayer’s refund and interest of more than R135 000

The Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) does not only help speed up the resolution of taxpayer complaints and gets the South African Revenue Services (SARS) to pay monies due. 

According to OTO, there are also instances where it secures them thousands of rands worth in interest. 

The Ombud has cited the latest case involving a complaint about SARS’ “repeated” inability to finalise a taxpayer’s verification of the 03/2023 value-added tax (VAT) declaration.

“The OTO investigated the complaint and discovered that the taxpayer had filed the VAT return on 14 April 2023, reflecting a refund of R5 398 613.44. 

“The return was selected for verification and the taxpayer uploaded the supporting documentation requested, all on the same day. SARS, however, did not request additional information or finalise the verification within the turnaround time of 21 business days,” the OTO explained. 

As a result, the taxpayer complained to the SARS Complaints Management Office in May last year. 

However, according to the statement, SARS proceeded to request additional information in June 2023. 

“After the taxpayer submitted the documentation on 20 June 2023, SARS again did not finalise the verification within 21 business days. The taxpayer complained with the OTO on 7 August 2023, and the complaint was accepted on 11 August 2023.”

The office recommended that SARS finalise the verification of the 03/2023 VAT declaration and pay out the refund with interest if applicable or provide valid reasons for not doing so.

 Meanwhile, the verification of the 03/2023 VAT declaration was finalised in August 2023.

Although SARS issued an additional assessment, the OTO stated that a refund of R4 255 398.20 was paid in September last year and the taxman paid the taxpayer interest of R135 152.62 the following month. 

The Ombud explained that if a VAT refund is not paid out within 21 business days, SARS is obliged to pay interest at a prescribed rate on the amount refundable. 

“There are, however, certain circumstances that will delay the accrual of interest. Where for instance a taxpayer submitted a defective or incomplete return, where SARS requested information from the taxpayers about the return in question, or where a taxpayer did not provide SARS with confirmed banking details,” the statement read. 

The OTO said the 21 business days will only start counting on the date on which the taxpayer provides SARS with the correct return, information or banking details.

“It is therefore extremely important for taxpayers to ensure that they act promptly to comply with SARS’s requests.” 

The OTO’s services are free, and the organisation continues to make a massive difference in taxpayers’ lives with tax complaints against SARS. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 10:54

286 views
Read moreTax Ombud secures taxpayer’s refund and interest of more than R135 000

Deadline reminder for provisional taxpayers, trusts 

Location: News

Deadline reminder for provisional taxpayers, trusts 

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has reminded individual taxpayers and trusts that are provisional taxpayers, to file their income tax returns for the 2023 tax year as the deadline is around the corner.

The 2023 year of assessment refers to the period between 01 March 2022 to 28 February 2023. The deadline for submissions is Wednesday, 24 January 2024.

“SARS has made it easy for taxpayers to comply through online filing solutions. The personal income tax return (ITR12) and trust income tax return (ITR12T) may be obtained on eFiling while an appointment with a SARS branch may be made on the SARS website. Taxpayers are encouraged to refer to the SARS website for further information on their tax obligations, trusts, tax filing season 2023 and provisional tax.

“SARS is taking a zero-tolerance approach to taxpayers not registering for the applicable tax, not filing tax returns, not making accurate declarations in their tax returns and failing to make payments due to SARS where applicable. Non-compliance with these obligations is a criminal offence and will attract penalties and interest,” SARS said on Thursday.

A provisional taxpayer is any person who receives income or to whom income accrues, other than remuneration. 

A Trust is included under the definition of a “person” in terms of the Income Tax Act, no.58 of 1962 and is therefore regarded as a taxpayer.

“All trusts are required to file a tax return annually, including those that are not economically active. A trustee is the representative taxpayer of a trust and is liable to file on behalf of the trust or appoint a registered tax practitioner to do so,” SARS said.

As of the 2023 year of assessment, trustees are required to submit mandatory supporting documents during the filing process.

These documents include amongst others, the trust instrument, annual financial statements, letters of authority, resolutions/minutes of trustee meetings and an organogram depicting the beneficial ownership of the trust.

Additionally, beneficiaries of trusts are required to declare their income, including income derived from a trust, in their personal income tax returns. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 09:24

326 views
Read moreDeadline reminder for provisional taxpayers, trusts 

Immediate and comprehensive ceasefire required in Gaza – President Ramaphosa

Location: News

Immediate and comprehensive ceasefire required in Gaza - President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated South Africa’s unequivocal call for an “immediate and comprehensive ceasefire” in Gaza, Palestine.

The President on Friday delivered the country statement of South Africa during the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit being held in Uganda. 

The Israeli-Palestinian war erupted in October 2023 when militant group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel – killing at least 1200 people.

The Israeli retaliation on Palestine has been far greater with estimates that more than 20 000 Palestinians have been killed with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reporting the internal displacement of some 1.9 million people in Gaza.

“South Africa calls for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza. We call for the release of all hostages and the resumption of talks on a just solution that will end the suffering of the Palestinian people. We further call for unhindered and expanded humanitarian access to allow for vital aid and basic services to meet the needs of everyone living in Gaza.

“As a consequence of the ever-worsening situation of the people of Gaza, South Africa has asked the International Court of Justice to issue provisional measures ordering Israel to stop its military campaign in Gaza. This is necessary to protect against further, severe and irreparable harm to the rights of the Palestinian people,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President said the ongoing conflict lays bare the “inadequacy” of global governance organisations such as the United Nations (UN).

“South Africa recently made financial contributions to the UN Relief and Works Agency and the UNHCR [United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees] to support their humanitarian operations in Gaza and the broader Palestinian refugees. In addition, many ordinary South Africans and NGOs have mobilised resources to assist the people of Gaza.

“The conflict has again illustrated the inadequacy of the United Nations, in particular the UN Security Council, in maintaining international peace and security. We should establish a system of global governance that is fair and equitable, and has the capacity to respond to the needs of all persons in situations of threat and harm,” he said.

World challenges

Fixing attention on the Summit, President Ramaphosa said the gathering takes place at a time when international challenges – “exacerbated by geopolitical dynamics and conflicts in various regions of the world” – are abound.

“The wars taking place in Ukraine and Palestine are causing grave humanitarian and health crises and contributing to international instability. The supremacy of multilateralism as embodied by the United Nations Charter and international law is being undermined exactly when it is needed most.

“At a time when the world appears to be once again divided between east and west, the Non-Aligned Movement should continue to assert its independence based on our common values.

“South Africa remains steadfast in advancing its non-aligned approach in the maintenance of international peace and security and advocating for inclusive dialogue and the peaceful political settlement of disputes,” he said.

President Ramaphosa called on the NAM to work together in pursuance of:

  • the right to self-determination of the peoples of Palestine and Western Sahara;
  • the lifting of the economic blockade against Cuba and unilateral sanctions against Iran, Venezuela and Zimbabwe;
  • reaffirmation of the inalienable right of access to nuclear materials, equipment and technology for peaceful purposes;
  • upholding the centrality of the UN Charter and international law in the peaceful resolution of conflict;
  • defeating the scourge of terrorism and its root causes; and,
  • the alleviation and eradication of poverty and underdevelopment.

“This interconnected world calls for a collective determination to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and to address the economic, social, health and environmental challenges that every country faces.

“We need to give dedicated attention to the reform of global governance institutions, including the United Nations. We must give meaning to the principle of sovereign equality of nations and ensure that the voice of the African Continent and the Global South is strengthened in the broader multilateral system,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 13:03

108 views
Read moreImmediate and comprehensive ceasefire required in Gaza – President Ramaphosa

Condolences for Violet Siwela

Location: News

Condolences for Violet Siwela

Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams has paid tribute to the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development, Violet Siwela, for serving the committee with distinction.

In a statement on Thursday, Ndabeni-Abrahams expressed her heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, comrades and her political home, the African National Congress.

“Her sad passing marks the end of a life that was selflessly dedicated to serving the people of South Africa, in particular the informal traders, cooperatives, micro, small and medium enterprises ecosystem.

“Inspired by her proud legacy, we pledge to continue working tirelessly to ensure the growth and sustainability of small businesses. In her name and in honour of her legacy, we commit to ensure that the National Small Enterprise Amendment Bill is passed,” the Minister said.

The Bill seeks to amend the National Small Enterprise Act to provide for the establishment of the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEDFA) and the subsequent disestablishment of the Small Enterprise Financing Agency (Sefa), the Co-operative Banks Development Agency (CBDA) and the Small Enterprise Development Agency (Seda); and for the establishment of the Office of the Small Enterprise Ombud Service.

The Bill further enables the Minister to declare certain practices in relation to small enterprises to be prohibited as unfair trading practices and to make regulations with regard thereto.

“The successful passing of this Bill will be a fitting tribute to her commitment, dedication and passion for small business development,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Fri, 01/19/2024 - 10:50

40 views
Read moreCondolences for Violet Siwela

9 Reasons Why You Should Attend The Upcoming Every Africa Festival (AAF) In Abu Dhabi Yas Island’s Etihad Park This February

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

With New Year celebrations now behind us, organisers of the award-winning All Africa Festival (AAF), the UAE’s largest celebration of Africa’s rich and diverse cultures in all their vibrant expressions and representations, are ramping up efforts to deliver an unforgettable mosaic of performances, artistic, culinary and culturally immersive experiences on the grounds of Yas Island’s …

Read more9 Reasons Why You Should Attend The Upcoming Every Africa Festival (AAF) In Abu Dhabi Yas Island’s Etihad Park This February

Kickstart For EPA Track & Field Season This Weekend At NMU Stadium – Saturday, 20 January 2024

Location: MyPR

The first Track & Field event will be held at NMU stadium on Saturday, 20 January. EP Athletics Track & Field Chairperson, Riaan Barnard, confirmed that the track and field pre-season had started in September last year to ensure that the best local athletes can qualify to represent EPA at the National Athletic Championships in …

Read moreKickstart For EPA Track & Field Season This Weekend At NMU Stadium – Saturday, 20 January 2024

Clairfield International and Rand Merchant Bank announce a formal M&A advisory partnership spanning 32 countries

Location: Business
Rand Merchant Bank

Clairfield International, a top-ranked Europe-based global corporate finance partnership, and Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) (www.RMB.co.za), a division of FirstRand Bank Limited (part of FirstRand Limited, the largest financial services group by market capitalisation in Africa), are delighted to announce that they formally agreed to partner, marking both firms' commitment to global expansion and delivery of top-quality corporate finance advisory solutions for clients.

This partnership will position RMB as the gateway for Clairfield clients into South Africa, Nigeria, and the broader sub-Saharan African market, while Clairfield opens doors for RMB into Europe, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific region. Following from Clairfield's successful partnership with top Japanese advisory firm Yamada Consulting in 2023 that covers Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, this new access to sub-Saharan Africa creates unparalleled coverage for midmarket corporate, private equity, and family business clients worldwide.

Clairfield International advises entrepreneurs, multinational corporations, and financial investors on M&A and other corporate finance solutions with special expertise in cross border situations through over 30 country teams globally. Clairfield International has completed 780 transactions on behalf of clients in the last five years totalling EUR 30 billion in disclosed deal value.

“We are optimistic about Africa's long-term growth, driven by technology, the high demand for infrastructure and rapid urbanisation, and we are eager to explore business opportunities across the continent. RMB has a corporate finance team of over 70 people, and with their reach and expertise on the ground, Clairfield can vastly expand its client offerings across sub-Saharan Africa,” says Alexander Klemm, Executive Chair of the Clairfield board of directors. “This partnership is a transformative step for both firms, enhancing our global footprint. Together we can access exciting global deal flow, buyers, and investors for our clients.”

RMB's award-winning corporate finance team partners local and global clients offering differentiated advice and innovative thinking on strategic topics as well as access to capital to enable their growth ambitions. RMB Corporate Finance has an unrivalled track record in corporate finance advisory in sub-Saharan Africa and is consistently the top-ranked advisor in the league tables in South Africa and Nigeria. 

“This partnership underscores our commitment to building an M&A advisory capability that is internationally relevant to our clients,” says Krishna Nagar, Co-head of Corporate Finance at Rand Merchant Bank. “The increase in M&A activity across Africa positions us favourably with companies seeking global opportunities and expertise. Our collaboration with Clairfield has already proven fruitful as interest from Clairfield clients is evident in our mandates. We look forward to a continued partnership and access to Clairfield's expertise in developing and facilitating that global deal flow.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rand Merchant Bank.

About RMB:
Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) is a leading African corporate and investment bank (CIB) and part of the largest financial services group (by market capitalisation) in Africa – FirstRand Bank Limited (which is wholly owned by FirstRand Limited). We offer our clients innovative, value-added advisory, funding, trading, corporate banking, and principal investing solutions.

With a presence in 10 African countries, we have a significant footprint on the continent. We also have access to a network of retail banks, representative offices and branches across Africa, the UK, India and the US.

For more information visit: www.RMB.co.za

About Clairfield International:
Founded in 2004, Clairfield International provides advisory services on middle-market transactions for large companies, private investors and private equity, public sector clients, and family businesses. Headquartered in Europe with locations in every major region worldwide, we offer clients access to corporates, investors, key decision-makers, and sector experts, combined with a deep understanding of local regulations and cultures. Closing over 190 transactions annually, Clairfield ranks as one of the top independent M&A advisors in league tables worldwide.

For more information visit: www.Clairfield.com

Media files
Rand Merchant Bank
Download logo
Read moreClairfield International and Rand Merchant Bank announce a formal M&A advisory partnership spanning 32 countries

NSC 2023 achievements a result of sectoral support

Location: News

NSC 2023 achievements a result of sectoral support

Department of Basic Education Director-General (DG) Hubert Mweli has attributed the achievements of the matric Class of 2023 to the “extraordinary support” the learners received throughout the year.

The DG was speaking during a technical briefing ahead of the announcement of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) results held at the Mosaïek in Johannesburg on Thursday.

The Class of 2023, with more than 890 000 full-time and part-time candidates, produced a pass rate of some 82.9% - the highest in percentage points in the history of the NSC.

“This class has been provided with extraordinary support. The reality is that we are an unequal society. We still remain an unequal society. When others have got a number of tutors lined up for them, learners in the villages, in the townships, in the informal settlements…the only expert they rely on is the teacher.

“In South Africa, our government – across all the nine provinces – provides comprehensive support to our learners. This support does not begin in Grade 12, it starts from the foundation phase.”

Mweli explained that the Learner Support Programmes for the matriculants this year had distinct features. These included:

  • A strong partnership with civil society, universities and non-governmental organisations and donors.
  • Weekend, autumn, winter, spring, and last push learner support programme to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 in all nine provinces.
  • The Learner Support Programme focused on Languages (Home Languages, African Languages, South African Sign Language including Afrikaans and English, as well as First Additional Languages).
  • The Electrical, Mechanical, Civil Technologies specialisations received attention during the implementation of the Learner Support Programme.
  • Smaller subjects such as services subjects (Hospitality, Consumer Studies, and Tourism) were also included in the 2023 Learner Support Programme.
  • Mathematics received unprecedented attention in all the 75 education districts. The year 2023 was declared the year of Mathematics and regular meetings were convened with the Mathematics Curriculum convenors in each of the provinces.
  • Face to face engagements were held with the 25 000 school principals, district, provincial officials focusing on the improvement of learning outcome.

“We even followed through in our support. We actioned research, we checked the impact, we tracked learner performance on a monthly basis and on a quarterly basis to determine whether there is any impact in terms of the support that has been provided,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 01/18/2024 - 21:03

342 views
Read moreNSC 2023 achievements a result of sectoral support