Sunday Tribune 2024-12-15

Cyril Ramaphosa wants one standout policy success to help address many of South Africa’s ills, he should give full backing to the campaign to remove value added tax (VAT) from chicken. Ramaphosa set out those maladies in a speech to the National Council of the Provinces (NCOP) last week. He noted that, despite the country’s many successes since the advent of democracy in 1994, it was still beset by poverty, unemployment and inequality. He highlighted the need for economic growth, job creation, agricultural output and exports, improved education and better health. Noting the huge increase in social grants, which now benefit nearly half of South Africa’s households, Ramaphosa said “the aim must be to move as many social grant recipients as possible into sustainable livelihoods”. VAT-free chicken is a pro-poor…

The latest health check on South Africa’s economy from this past week was a mixed bag for consumers as the latest data released on employment and inflation in the country made for both, good and alarming reading. Food inflation plunged to its lowest in 14 years, while the unemployment crisis in the country worsened, as 133 000 jobs in the formal non-agricultural sectors were lost in the third quarter of 2024 as both full-time and part-time employment declined on the back of subdued economic activity. This was according to Statistics South Africa (StatsSA), which released the data this past week. The data comes hot of the heels of the fuel price increases announced for the month of December. There will be some festive cheer for South Africans as the cooling…

With the vigour of youth and being equipped with expertise in the field, at the age of 21, Daniel Canhenga, founded his company, CodingHub, with a desire to help grow and allow small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to thrive in the country. Canhenga said that his business is about offering a trusted partnership that guides businesses through every step of the digital journey. CodingHub specialises in creating tailored IT systems that align with business goals, improve performance, and reduce stress, ultimately giving SMEs a competitive edge. “It's about offering a trusted partnership that guides businesses through every step of the digital journey. The company specializes in creating tailored IT systems that align with business goals, improve performance, and reduce stress, ultimately giving SMEs a competitive edge,” he told Business…

As supermarkets prepare for the Christmas rush, savvy shoppers are starting to plan their festive menus. Will they stick to the tried-and-true holiday classics, or will they embrace the delicious changes on the culinary horizon? This year, we’ve rounded up some of the most delectable food trends for 2024 – prepare to be inspired. Luxury fish: A touch of elegance Seafood connoisseurs can rejoice as luxury fish take centre stage this holiday season. Prawns, crabs, lobsters, and even extravagant three-fish roasts will grace dining tables across the world. One nostalgic dish poised for a grand comeback is the classic prawn cocktail. There’s a reason the prawn cocktail has stood the test of time and that’s because the simple flavours marry so well together. A festive dish – with its vibrant…

Dezemba in South Africa is a time like no other. The sun’s blazing, the braais are sizzling and the air is buzzing with celebrations. From reconnecting with family to indulging in long-standing traditions, this is the season of joy, laughter and togetherness. But, in reality, Dezemba also carries a darker side. South Africa has a long-standing challenge with alcohol overindulgence and the festive season often sees a spike in risky behaviours like drinking and driving, heightened conflict at gatherings and even traumatic experiences. This article isn’t about dampening your holiday spirit – far from it! It’s about striking a balance. Let’s ensure we all make it to 2025 safely, celebrating life while being mindful of the consequences of alcohol abuse. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), South Africans consistently…

People who are good at planning are already in the festive mood and have exciting activities lined up for the season. With the temperatures rising, most people will be out and about. Whether chilling by the lounge poolside, sipping cocktails in the garden, or making memories with loved ones, make sure you look your best by drawing inspiration from the following style trends. The summer magic moment On sunny days, the best thing you can do is wear breathable clothes. Avoid jeans and opt for a flowing kaftan over your bikini or a maxi dress layered with a slip for that perfect mix of chic and comfort. Play with pastel hues like lavender and blush or go bold with prints that add personality to your look. Finish with flat sandals,…