Let’s wrap up some of the top stories happening in South Africa this week:
This week, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana presented the 2024 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS), forecasting a modest GDP growth of 1.1% for 2024 and an average of 1.8% over the next three years. However, revenue estimates for 2024/25 fell short by R22.3 billion, leading to a budget reduction of R31.2 billion over the following two years, highlighting fiscal challenges that will affect government spending decisions.
In a landmark move, the Department of Home Affairs issued 33 marriage certificates recognizing “Muslim” as an official type of marriage, bringing long-awaited validation for South Africa’s Muslim community.
In health and crime news, Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi reported that six Soweto children tragically died after consuming snacks tainted with Terbufos, sparking protests in the Naledi community against foreign-owned stores.
Meanwhile, Sekhukhune United footballer Shaune Mogaila turned himself in to police after fleeing a car accident that tragically killed a nine-year-old girl in Tembisa.
Here are the top stories of the week:
KYALAMI CIRCUIT NEARS FIA STANDARDS WITH KEY UPGRADES FOR POTENTIAL 2027 F1 RETURN
There’s renewed optimism that South Africa could see Formula 1 return to the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit by 2027, marking its comeback since 1993.
Kyalami’s management has officially committed to funding necessary upgrades, including extended runoff areas at three key corners and reinforced Armco barriers, to meet the FIA’s F1 safety standards, as per Car Mag report.
These enhancements, projected to cost around $10 million (R177 million), aim to secure an FIA Grade 1 rating, essential for hosting an F1 race.
Recent assessments by British motorsport experts APEX confirm Kyalami’s infrastructure already meets or surpasses certain F1 requirements, highlighting its track surface, paddock, and spectator facilities.
SEKHUKHUNE UNITED PLAYER, SHAUNE MOGAILA HANDS HIMSELF IN AFTER FATAL CRASH THAT KILLED 9-YEAR-OLD GIRL
Shaune Mogaila, a player for Sekhukhune United, has turned himself in to the Rabie Ridge police following a tragic accident in Tembisa that resulted in the death of a nine-year-old girl.
The incident occurred on Wednesday morning, after which Mogaila fled the scene. Despite sustaining only a minor bruise to his forehead, he reported to authorities later that day.
FINANCE MINISTER ENOCH GODONGWANA DELIVERS MEDIUM-TERM BUDGET SPEECH
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana presented the 2024 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) on 30 November, detailing the government’s fiscal plan for the next three years.
Key highlights include a projected real GDP growth of 1.1% in 2024 and an average of 1.8% over the medium term. For the first time in 15 years, a primary budget surplus is expected in 2023/24, with a reduction in the main budget deficit from 4.7% of GDP in 2024/25 to 3.4% by 2027/28. Total revenue for 2024/25 is estimated at R1.84 trillion against projected expenditure of R2.2 trillion, with no increases in personal income tax or VAT. Infrastructure investment targets R131.1 billion in the medium term, reflecting the government’s commitment to address social and infrastructure challenges.
Read full speech here.
TAX REVENUE PROJECTIONS FALL BY R22.3 BILLION IN 2024/25
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced that tax revenue for 2024/25 is expected to drop by R22.3 billion from previous estimates during the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) presented in Parliament.
Over the next two years, the main budget revenue estimate has been reduced by R31.2 billion, prompting tough decisions on government spending. While the National Treasury projects a total tax collection of R2.3 trillion by 2027/28, challenges such as lower growth and external risks are anticipated to pressure tax revenues.
Despite a resilient tax-to-GDP ratio, collections are set to decline in the coming years, with an expected shortfall of R41.4 billion for 2025/26 and 2026/27.
HOME AFFAIRS ISSUES FIRST CERTIFICATES RECOGNIZING MUSLIM MARRIAGES
The Department of Home Affairs has issued the first-ever South African marriage certificates that officially recognize “Muslim” as a type of marriage.
A total of 33 certificates were granted. Home Affairs Minister Dr. Leon Schreiber emphasized the importance of this step, stating it enhances the dignity of the Muslim faith community and reflects the department’s commitment to celebrating South Africa’s unity in diversity.
Additionally, the recently signed Divorce Amendment Act now acknowledges Muslim marriages, providing legal protections for Muslim women and children in the event of a divorce.
TRAGIC DEATHS OF SOWETO CHILDREN LINKED TO ORGANOPHOSPHATE POISONING
Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi confirmed that six children from Soweto died after ingesting snacks contaminated with Terbufos, a type of organophosphate commonly used in agriculture.
This revelation follows community unrest in Naledi, where residents protested against foreign-owned shops, fearing they were linked to the tragedy.
An extensive investigation involved 80 environmental health practitioners who inspected 84 local spaza shops for evidence of the toxic substance. The Minister noted that organophosphates, unlike Carbamates, are more lethal and can cause irreversible harm.
LIMPOPO COP ACCUSED OF INSURANCE MURDERS BACK IN COURT
The Polokwane Magistrate’s Court heard harrowing details in the case against Rachel Kutumela, a Limpopo police officer charged with nine counts of murder and insurance fraud worth R10 million.
Kutumela, along with her daughter and sister, is alleged to have exploited vulnerable individuals who later died under suspicious circumstances.
Prosecutor Advocate Kgaugelo Lekoloane argued against bail, citing a pattern in which Kutumela profited from the insurance payouts of her victims, covering funeral costs while enriching herself. Lekoloane highlighted that many deaths involved tragic car accidents and burn incidents, always benefitting Kutumela financially. Transfers of substantial amounts of insurance money to her sister, the third accused, were also noted.
SHAKA iLEMBE AND OUTLAWS STEAL THE SHOW AT SAFTAS 2024
Mzansi Magic’s Shaka iLembe dominated the SAFTAs this past weekend, winning Best Drama Series and setting a new record with an impressive 12 Golden Horns—making it the most-awarded drama in the history of the awards.
Meanwhile, Showmax’s Outlaws also had a big night, taking home the Best Telenovela award, bringing its total SAFTAs haul to seven.
TAXI PATROLLERS DO NOT HAVE AUTHORITY TO STOP MOTORISTS, SAYS POLICE COMMISSIONER
National Police Commissioner Gen Fannie Masemola has clarified that taxi patrollers do not have the authority to stop motorists from giving lifts.
This statement follows a viral video showing a taxi patrol car blocking a vehicle on the highway for allegedly picking up passengers.
In a recent incident, a Mpumalanga man was left stranded when patrollers seized his keys and demanded a R2,500 fine to return his vehicle. Masemola stated that while taxi association vehicles can monitor their own taxis, they have no jurisdiction over other motorists on public roads.
CONTROVERSIAL DIAMOND DEALER LOUIS LIEBENBERG BACK IN COURT
Louis Liebenberg, a controversial diamond dealer and alleged fraudster, appeared in the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrates Court on Thursday.
He was arrested last week alongside eight others, including his wife, Dezzi, facing serious charges of racketeering, fraud, and money laundering.
Liebenberg is accused of orchestrating a massive investment scam. Authorities claim he and his co-accused conned thousands of people into investing R4 billion in a fraudulent diamond scheme.
UNIVERSITY OF LIMPOPO POSTPONES EXAMS DUE TO WATER SHORTAGE
The University of Limpopo has decided to postpone its end-of-year examinations due to a critical water shortage affecting the campus and surrounding areas reliant on the Polokwane Municipality.
The exams are now set to resume on Monday next week.
In a media briefing, Polokwane Mayor John Mpe expressed dissatisfaction with the university’s decision to delay exams without consulting the municipality. University spokesperson Victor Kgomoeswana highlighted the hygiene and health risks posed by inadequate water supply for students living on campus.
GAUTENG TO DEPLOY 13,000 TRAFFIC WARDENS AHEAD OF FESTIVE SEASON
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced the deployment of over 13,000 traffic wardens to enhance safety on the streets this festive season.
In addition, three helicopters will be utilized to bolster crime-fighting efforts.
Lesufi emphasized that increased police visibility is crucial for preventing and combating serious crimes during the holiday period. He expressed confidence in the safety plans developed by law enforcement, aimed at addressing drug abuse and cracking down on illegal alcohol sales. The province’s December safety strategy will specifically focus on reducing heists and ensuring that entertainment venues remain secure.
Share your thoughts on this article and join the conversation on Twitter or Facebook.
The post Top Stories in South Africa this week: Mid-term budget, Sekhukhune United player, Muslim marriages & more appeared first on YOMZANSI. Documenting THE CULTURE.
