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Bizcommunity | 10 July 2025 Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille has delivered the Budget Vote for the 2025/26 financial year, unveiling a R2.43bn allocation focused on sustaining tourism growth, job creation, and sector transformation across South Africa. Speaking in Parliament, Minister de Lille highlighted the budget’s alignment with the Government of National Unity’s Programme of Action, aimed at driving inclusive economic growth, reducing poverty, and building a capable state. She emphasised the importance of tourism as a key economic driver, referencing its central role in the National Development Plan and the Tourism Sector Master Plan. Budget highlights • R1.3bn allocated to SA Tourism, the Department’s main entity. • R331m dedicated to destination development, primarily funding the Working for Tourism Programme. • R331m earmarked for Tourism Sector Support Services, covering incentive schemes such as the Green Tourism Incentive Programme (GTIP), Market Access Programme, Tourism Grading programme, and Tourism Transformation Fund (TTF). Addressing oversight and improving governance Minister de Lille outlined the department’s response to Portfolio Committee concerns, including: • Finalising the Tourism Amendment Bill to address short-term rentals, grading enforcement, and governance. • Reviewing outdated strategies on heritage and cultural tourism, domestic growth, rural tourism, service excellence, and climate change. • Strengthening fund management with clear deliverables, 60-day approval targets, and consequence management. • Implementing a Community Tourism Aftercare programme offering post-handover support to community lodges. • Enhancing digital transformation through a Digital Maturity Roadmap, real-time tourism dashboards, and mobile tools. • Applying a Sector Risk and Mitigation Plan focusing on climate change, health, safety, and governance.• Increasing transparency via quarterly public dashboards on EPWP placements, fund disbursements, and risk metrics. Tourism performance and economic impact The Minister reflected on the sector’s strong performance in 2024/25: • International visitor arrivals reached a peak of 9.1 million. • Domestic overnight travel increased to 40 million trips from 37.7 million the previous year. • International tourists contributed R92.8bn in foreign direct spend. • Domestic tourism grew by 7.6% to R133.1bn. • 76% of the budget was directed to growth-and-jobs initiatives, with 40% procurement from SMMEs and 40% from women-owned businesses. • The Green Tourism Incentive Programme retrofitted 103 properties. • Support was given to 266 SMMEs at global trade shows via the Market Access Support Programme. • R144m was spent to train and deploy 2,305 Tourism Monitors. • Major policy achievements included completing the Tourism Master Plan, Tourism White Paper, and Tourism Route Development Marketing Plan. • The Trusted Tour Operator Scheme, in collaboration with Home Affairs, welcomed the first Chinese and Indian travellers via digital visas. Tourism growth partnership plan The department introduced the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan with five pillars to drive sustainable sector growth by 2030: 1. Ease of access – visa reform, air and road connectivity 2. Coordinated destination marketing – covering international, continental, domestic, and MICE markets 3. Tourist safety and security – awareness and crisis management 4. Tourism product development – infrastructure and immersive experiences 5. Job creation – youth employment acceleration and skills development An upcoming Execution Lab will engage sector leaders to implement these goals. Marketing and product development initiatives The flagship “South Africa Awaits – Come Find Your Joy!” campaign reached seven key markets, boosting website traffic by 35% and generating 1.2 million digital engagements. Domestic campaigns like “Sho’t Left/Travel Week” saw a 9% increase in provincial travel and supported 914 new jobs. The Department plans to spend R20m marketing National Domestic Tourism and has commissioned new tracking surveys to gain real-time visitor insights. Efforts continue to maintain Africa’s position as a leading hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), aiming to increase exhibitor diversity by 15% for Meetings Africa and Travel Indaba 2026-2028. Tourism product development will receive R95m for the maintenance and enhancement of Department-owned sites, community tourism lodges, and branded routes in villages and townships. The department will host its first Tourism Investment Conference in Cape Town in September 2025. Minister de Lille reaffirmed the government’s commitment to leveraging legislative, operational, and strategic interventions to strengthen tourism, remove barriers, and embed innovation. The sector is positioned as a catalyst for a resilient and inclusive South African economy. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.bizcommunity.com/article/tourism-budget-proposes-r24bn-for-202526-367958a

Karabo Marifi | 9 July 2025 Tourism is a powerful engine for job creation, poverty reduction, and inclusive economic growth in South Africa, according to Deputy Minister of Tourism Maggie Sotyu. Speaking at the tabling of the department’s Budget Vote in Cape Town on Tuesday, Sotyu emphasized the sector’s role in uniting citizens, visitors, and tourists in discovering the country’s beauty and fostering equality. With a clear mandate from the Government of National Unity to transform South Africa into a thriving tourism nation, the department is focusing on supporting small businesses, improving grading systems, and preparing for international events like the G20 conference to drive growth and create opportunities for all. Tourism as a Catalyst for Change In her address, Deputy Minister Sotyu highlighted tourism’s potential to tackle some of South Africa’s biggest challenges, such as unemployment and inequality. “The nation has given this Government of National Unity a clear mandate to turn South Africa into a successful tourism nation,” she said. She stressed that tourism is more than just attracting visitors—it’s about building sustainable jobs and ensuring economic growth that includes everyone. By showcasing the country’s diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and warm hospitality, the sector can bring people together and create shared hope for a more equal society. Supporting SMMEs for Inclusive Growth A major part of the department’s plan is to support small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs), which Sotyu called “key drivers of inclusive growth and poverty eradication.” She warned that “economic growth without transformation entrenches exclusion, and transformation without growth is unsustainable.” To help SMMEs break into the tourism industry, the department runs the Tourism Grading Support Programme (TGSP). This initiative subsidizes the cost of grading for businesses, making it easier for them to meet industry standards and compete in the hotel sector.In the 2024/25 financial year, the TGSP helped 2,970 establishments get graded under the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA). This not only promotes high-quality service but also keeps South Africa competitive on the global stage. However, Sotyu pointed out a problem: some big hotels falsely advertise as five-star properties without proper grading. To fix this, the department has launched a Grading Criteria Review, set to finish this financial year. This review will ensure the grading system stays world-class and suits South Africa’s unique needs. Boosting International Appeal with MICE and the G20 The department is also working to attract international events through the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. The South African National Conventions Bureau (SANCB) is leading efforts to bid for global conferences, which Sotyu said are vital for economic growth and job creation. “Grading of tourist establishments that host international events is a crucial factor in the sustainability of economic growth,” she explained. These events spread business opportunities across different regions and create local jobs, especially since tourism relies heavily on people power.The biggest event on the horizon is the G20 conference, which South Africa will host later this year. Sotyu called it a “catalyst for job creation” and a chance to show off the country’s strengths. “The G20 presents an opportunity to showcase the nation’s unparalleled hospitality, world-class infrastructure, quality-assured accommodations, and experiences,” she said. The department is gearing up to make sure the event runs smoothly and that all South Africans understand its importance and share in its benefits. Tourism’s Broader Economic Impact Tourism plays a huge role in South Africa’s economy. In recent years, it has contributed billions to the country’s GDP and supported millions of jobs. The sector’s growth is vital for recovery after challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, but it still faces hurdles such as safety concerns and the need for better infrastructure. By focusing on SMMEs and grading systems, the department aims to overcome these issues and make tourism a stronger force for good. The G20 conference alone is expected to bring in significant revenue, with delegates spending on hotels, restaurants, and local attractions. More importantly, it will put South Africa on the map as a top spot for international events, paving the way for future opportunities. A Unified Vision for the Future Deputy Minister Sotyu’s speech painted an inspiring picture of tourism as a way to unite South Africa and build a brighter future. Through job creation, support for small businesses, and hosting global events, the department is committed to making sure no one is left behind. “As the department, we are very committed to ensure that no one is left behind on the knowledge, importance, and benefit of this G20,” she concluded. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://centralnews.co.za/tourism-key-to-job-creation-and-economic-growth-says-deputy-minister/

Sabrina Jardim | 9 July 2025 Business organisation Sakeliga and the National Employers' Association of South Africa (Neasa) have jointly filed an urgent application for an interdict against the implementation of the 2025 Employment Equity sectoral numerical quotas and accompanying administrative regulations. The parties are also seeking the judicial review and setting aside thereof. The application challenges the legality and constitutionality of the newly introduced employment equity framework, which introduces rigid race and gender quotas across 18 economic sectors on the top four occupational levels. These quotas, formally published in April, require employers with 50 or more employees to restructure their entire workforce to reflect national gender and racial demographics of the country, or face dire consequences, the organisations note. The parties explain that the legal challenge comprises two parts, with the first being a judicial review of the procedural acts of the Minister in setting the quotas, which they say were “fraught with irregularities and inadequacies in process”. The second part entails a constitutional challenge of the substance of relevant sections in the Employment Equity Act (EEA), which allow for and facilitate the setting and enforcement of these quotas. In the founding affidavit, Sakeliga and Neasa argue that the Minister did not act in accordance with the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act (PAJA), as she failed to adhere to the prescriptions of Section 15A of the EEA prior to the setting and publishing of the 2025 sectoral numerical quotas. This renders her actions unlawful and invalid, they argue, adding that the court papers, filed in the Gauteng Division of the High Court, reveal “glaring procedural and substantive flaws” in the Minister’s process. This includes failure to identify and gazette economic sectors; improper consultation; no lawful publications; arbitrary quotas; no socioeconomic-impact assessment performed; and violation of the Constitution. “Unless the court intervenes and grants the interim relief sought, every employer that employs 50 employees or more, in every sector of the economy, will be required by legislation to prepare and implement employment equity plans to make their workforce conform to the 2025 quotas,” say Sakeliga and Neasa. They argue that the time and expense incurred by employers in preparing such employment equity plans, or attempting to avoid or preparing for the consequences, with which the State threatens them when they inevitably cannot comply, will be irrecoverably lost to employers and to the economy. “From September 1, employers, their businesses, employees and prospective employees will suffer irreparable harm and loss when the attempted implementation of the employment equity plans based on unlawful quotas commences,” they argue. Individuals will be employed or not employed, and promoted or not promoted, based on unlawful quotas, they continue. Sakeliga and Neasa posit that employers will restructure and make other permanent changes to their workforce and corporate structuring, employ new employees and forego opportunities and take on the expense that this involves, all based on unlawful quotas. “This filing marks the next important step in preventing these impossible, irrational, and harmful employment quotas for the benefit of employers, employees, and all communities across the country.” ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.polity.org.za/article/sakeliga-neasa-lodge-legal-challenge-against-employment-equity-quotas-2025-07-09

Siphesihle Buthelezi | 8 July 2025 Stats SA has defended the integrity of its official unemployment statistics following a high-level meeting with Capitec Bank CEO Gerrie Fourie, who recently questioned the credibility of the country's 32.9% unemployment rate . The meeting, held in Stellenbosch last week, brought together Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke, senior Stats SA officials, and National Treasury representatives to address comments made by Fourie, who suggested South Africa’s real unemployment rate might be closer to 10%, based on Capitec’s observations of informal economic activity. In response, Stats SA gave what it described as a “comprehensive presentation” of the methodology used in its Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS), which it said adheres to International Labour Organization (ILO) standards and includes informal and self-employed workers. “Stats SA methods remain robust,” Maluleke said. “We do not fix statistics to feel better about our reality. We reflect that reality so the country can make evidence‑based decisions to change it.” Fourie, who welcomed the engagement, said: “We are committed to working with the government and the private sector to help South Africa grow. The informal market is vibrant and dynamic, but we believe this growth will only be achieved once the informal economy is properly understood and supported with the right policy frameworks, infrastructure, funding, and skills development.” Maluleke acknowledged that Stats SA was open to further improving the quality of labour market data, including exploring the development of a statistical register for small and informal businesses. “We have listened to them, and we need to investigate the issues of a statistical register for small business,” he said. The meeting followed Minister Ntshavheni’s comments during Stats SA’s Budget Vote debate in Parliament. She said more consultations were expected with other stakeholders, including in the short-term insurance sector. In a joint commitment, Stats SA and National Treasury affirmed their support for stronger data systems and continued engagement with both public and private stakeholders. “Future updates will be communicated as developments occur,” the statement read. Stats SA stated it would conduct "methodological tests and innovations" in the coming years to refine labour indicators and ensure better capture of the informal economy within the National Statistics System. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://iol.co.za/mercury/2025-07-08-stats-sa-and-capitec-bank-ceo-discuss-south-africas-unemployment-crisis/

IRR | 8 July 2025 South Africans have made their voices clear, and they want race laws scrapped, says the Institute of Race Relations (IRR).  Four months ago, the IRR launched its #WhatSACanBe movement. The What South Africa Can Be campaign operationalises many of the IRR’s evidence-based and growth-enabling policy proposals and has published numerous draft bills which the government can readily adopt to change course, and stop the damage to our economy and our society.  One such law is the #NoMoreRaceLawsBill. This draft legislation repeals all race laws and mandatory racial classification still in use long after the 1950 Population Registration Act – the very foundation of racialism in law − was scrapped.  Minister of Employment and Labour Nomakhosazana Meth’s Employment Equity Amendment Act aims to make race laws more exacting by introducing race targets. These targets require individuals to classify by race and companies to closely monitor the race and sex profiles of their workforce to ensure that they meet the set targets.  Says Makone Maja, IRR Strategic Engagements Manager: “This makes Minister Meth the perfect recipient of the No More Race Laws petition. The petition is anchored in the tenets of the #NoMoreRaceLaws Bill and has so far received 12,373 signatures from ordinary South Africans who have had enough of race laws that rob the people they claim to benefit while enabling the political elite to amass enormous wealth. These laws are part of a culture of fake transformation − they do not develop, upskill, or improve the lives of fully half of South Africa's population who remain in poverty and are left to get by on grants.”  Maja criticises the Ministry of Employment and Labour for failing to move the needle on job creation, saying it has stood in the way of bringing more jobs into our economy and presides over some of the highest levels of joblessness, especially among young people, in South Africa’s democratic era. This is the department that clings to obstacles to growth, constraining the private sector’s employment-creating abilities. “Blame for the last 10 years of little to no growth can be laid squarely at the door of laws that favour patronage over merit and value-for-money procurement. We can no longer afford to insist that race is relevant at the expense of true development and economic growth. The Minister of Employment has the power to lift all job-creating constraints and she can take the first step towards this goal by embracing the #NoMoreRaceLaws Bill. We will provide her with copies of the draft law as well as signatures in its support,” Maja concludes. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://irr.org.za/media/irr-to-submit-anti-race-laws-petition-to-department-of-employment-and-labour

Investing in Entrepreneurship in South Africa, particularly within the framework of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE), can yield significant benefits for both investors and our country as a whole. South Africa's entrepreneurship ecosystem is ripe with potential, offering opportunities for innovation, job creation, and economic growth. By supporting entrepreneurship, investors contribute to building a more inclusive economy, empowering Black People and communities to participate in economic activities.   It is one of the areas that link directly to the element of Enterprise & Supplier Development  under B-BBEE Legislation.   We encourage Members to consider incorporating upcoming Entrepreneurs when developing sustainable Enterprise & Supplier Development Strategies !

Generally, expenses on Bursaries  for employees do not constitute Skills Development Expenditure  if an organisation can recover any of the employee's expenses or if the grant is conditional in any way. However, the following two conditions are acceptable as part of an employee obligation whereby expenses will be recognised.  Successful completion of studies within an identified period; or The continuation of employment for a stated period following the successful completion of their studies which does not extend the period of their studies.   Members need to consider the above when implementing Bursary Strategies and agreements.    Skills Development Services   are available to assist Members to develop & implement Skills Development initiatives.

Johnathan Paoli | 7 July 2025 Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training Buti Manamela has reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting the small business sector through focused investment in skills development, stressing a crucial link between the government’s intentions and real-world implementation. Manamela was speaking during post-budget engagements with SMMEs in Cape Town. It was co-hosted by Food and Beverage Sector Education Training Authority (FoodBev SETA), the Insurance SETA (INSETA) and the Safety and Security SETA (SASETA) in partnership with his department. “We meet here today as policy meets practice, and as budgets meet the ambitions of our entrepreneurs operating at the frontline of economic inclusion in the food, insurance and security sectors,” Manamela told attendees. The deputy minister outlined how the budget would drive transformation across the higher education and skills ecosystem, particularly in support of micro, small and medium enterprises. Of the total allocation, R116.4 billion comes from voted funds and R26 billion from the Skills Development Levy. Key allocations include R14 billion for TVET colleges, rising to R14.7 billion in 2026; R3.1 billion for Community Colleges, increasing to R3.3 billion; R48.7 billion for NSFAS, rising to R53 billion by 2027; R96 billion for universities, despite a R1.4 billion funding gap; and R26 billion for SETAs and the National Skills Fund, growing to R27.8 billion next year. “These are not abstract numbers, but represent potential, opportunity, and impact. They represent your businesses, your employees, your communities,” Manamela said. The deputy minister emphasised that SMMEs accounted for over 60% of employment in South Africa and were often the only economic lifeline in township and rural communities. Manamela referenced the National Skills Development Plan Outcome 6 which prioritised support for entrepreneurship and cooperative development. The National Skills Fund is expected to spend over R659 million in the current year on SMME support, youth-focused programmes and cooperatives. In the 2024/25 financial year, the department’s procurement spend directly supported 366 micro and small enterprises, allocating more than R59 million, 36% above target. For the current year, the department has set a 50% procurement target. Manamela stressed the importance of market access, compliance support, mentorship, infrastructure and procurement opportunities. The deputy minister also commended the contributions of the three co-hosting SETAs, highlighting the scale and scope of their SMME-aligned programmes. INSETA supported over 2500 beneficiaries and invested R40 million in bursaries, learnerships, workplace-integrated learning and skills programmes, with many focused on small insurance enterprises. SASSETA disbursed more than R100 million across a wide range of interventions, including learnerships, internships, graduate placements and recognition of prior learning, specifically empowering emerging security businesses. FoodBev SETA invested R106 million in training over 2900 learners in areas ranging from artisan development to TVET and university placements which are key to bolstering South Africa’s food and manufacturing sector. “These interventions aren’t charity, they are investments in jobs, dignity, and long-term competitiveness,” Manamela said. As part of the day’s programme, the deputy minister, joined by FoodBev SETA CEO Nokuthula Selamolela, INSETA CEO Gugu Mkhize and SASSETA CEO Thamsanqa Mdontswa and representatives from the Mining Qualifications Authority, embarked on an SMME Immersion Walkabout at Makers Landing, a culinary hub at the V&A Waterfront. It allowed the delegation to engage directly with food entrepreneurs and small-scale producers working in the precinct’s production-ready kitchens and incubator spaces. From artisanal beverage creators to dairy and packaged goods entrepreneurs, the walkabout highlighted the tangible outcomes of skills investment and the real-world impact of public-private partnerships. Makers Landing, a partnership between the V&A Waterfront and the National Treasury’s Jobs Fund, is home to a dynamic food incubation programme and serves as a model for linking training to economic opportunity. Citing the 2023 Survey of Employers and the Self-Employed, Manamela noted that nearly 1.9 million informal businesses operate in South Africa, over 80% of which were started using personal savings and without formal financing or licensing. “Yet they persist. Our duty is to ensure they do not walk this road alone. Whether in a spaza shop in Khayelitsha, a catering co-op in Giyani, or a private security start-up in Vosloorus; we must match their determination with institutional support,” he said. The deputy minister emphasised that the budget must be more than an accounting document, but a mandate for delivery. “This budget must not sit in a PDF or a parliamentary Hansard, it must live in the businesses you grow, the people you employ, and the communities you sustain. Let this not be our last engagement. Let this be our annual commitment,” he said. The session marked a milestone in strengthening collaboration between the department, SETAs, and the small business sector, reinforcing government’s recognition of SMMEs as the engine of South Africa’s economic recovery and transformation. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://insideeducation.co.za/manamela-champions-smme-centered-skills-investment-in-sa/

Conway Williams | 3 July 2025 It is, at its core, a risk management lens — one that helps identify material long-term risks and opportunities. For most of the past decade, ESG analysis was treated as a slow‑burn, almost inevitable evolution of capital markets. ESG finds itself increasingly caught in the crossfire of global politics and trade tensions; 2025 has been a year of reckoning for sustainability-minded investors and businesses. New data from think-tank The Conference Board shows that 80% of corporations are recalibrating their ESG strategies, not because the fundamentals have changed but because the political and regulatory headwinds have grown stronger. In particular, tariffs — once purely economic instruments — are now reshaping how and where sustainability efforts can take root. South Africa has long taken a measured — some would say pragmatic — approach to integrating sustainability factors, yet recent events prove we are not insulated from international pressures. The US tariffs on South African exports have reminded us that global trade decisions have real consequences locally, especially when they clash with long-term sustainability goals. ESG is not a fad. Nor is it a marketing exercise, or a nice-to-have. It is fundamentally a nonfinancial risk management tool that must be systematically incorporated into investment processes. While the terminology may evolve — some companies are even dropping the term “ESG” in response to political backlash — the discipline behind it is here to stay. When trade policy disrupts sustainability According to The Conference Board’s survey of 125 large US and multinational companies, two-thirds believe new trade measures (tariffs) “will hinder progress on achieving sustainability goals”. Nearly half expect trade policy to “delay sustainable investments in sustainable operations”. In addition, 52% of respondents report “reworking their sustainability messaging, including moving away from the term ESG”, while maintaining the substance of it. ESG continues to be highly politicised, framed in some regions as a cost burden or ideological agenda. This distracts from its original and enduring purpose: identifying long-term risks and opportunities that don’t appear on traditional balance sheets. But that raises a deeper, more important question: Is ESG actually to blame here? Or is something else — policy decisions, for instance — getting in the way of progress? Let’s take a closer look. Trade policy, especially in the form of tariffs, is making it more expensive to pursue sustainable outcomes. For example, when clean energy components (such as solar panels or electric vehicle batteries) are subjected to tariffs, their costs rise. That slows down corporate decarbonisation initiatives, not because companies no longer care about climate goals but because the commercial reality has shifted. In emerging markets such as South Africa, where governments are already balancing decarbonisation with urgent developmental priorities, these disruptions cut especially deep. Many companies have spent years building supply chains that aren’t just cost-efficient but also ethical, transparent and carbon-conscious. Tariffs can throw those carefully built systems into disarray. Suddenly, organisations have to restructure global operations under time pressure and cost strain. In that scramble, sustainability can quickly fall down the list of priorities, not because ESG isn’t working but because the broader operating environment is working against it. ESG is not a trend or a label. It is, at its core, a risk management lens — one that helps identify material long-term risks and opportunities that don’t appear in traditional financial models. Whether it’s climate exposure, labour conditions or supply chain fragility, these factors have real financial consequences if ignored. Yes the ESG label has become politically charged in certain markets. And yes, businesses are feeling the heat. But effective ESG integration does not depend on what it is called — it depends on what it does. And what ESG continues to do, when applied correctly and rigorously, is drive more resilient decision-making. That means continuing to push the ESG agenda forward, even when it’s difficult. Especially when it’s difficult. What next? Even in today’s constrained global environment, paths forward still exist. Many South African businesses are pivoting towards regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area as a strategic response to global trade uncertainties. This shift strengthens resilience against tariff shocks and may reinforce ESG goals by shortening supply chains, reducing emissions and supporting local economies. Investors are increasingly moving beyond ESG checklists, guided by frameworks such as double materiality, SASB standards, the EU’s sustainable finance disclosure regulation and South Africa’s regulation 28. These developments reflect a more nuanced approach — one that values ESG for its societal and environmental impact as well as its relevance to financial performance and long-term risk management. In private markets, especially infrastructure and clean energy, ESG-aligned investment opportunities are growing. But these aren’t easy wins. They require long-term commitment, patience and an appreciation for both risk and impact. Liquidity trade-offs must be managed carefully. Capital must be allocated with foresight. And above all, communication must be honest — about the complexities of doing ESG properly in a world that often demands speed over substance. The intersection of trade policy and ESG is becoming increasingly complex, but that’s no reason to retreat. Done right, sustainability isn’t a burden — it’s a strategy for resilience. Even when the road gets rough, staying the course matters. Because ultimately, the greater risk lies not in doing too much, but in doing too little, too late. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://www.businesslive.co.za/fm/opinion/on-my-mind/2025-07-03-conway-williams-why-esg-still-matters/?utm_source=Arena+Holdings&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Today%27s+Top+Stories%3A+Why+ESG+still+matters%2C+Jubilee+pivots+to+copper%2C+LETTER%3A+Israel%27s+global+role+in+repression&utm_term=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.businesslive.co.za%2Ffm%2Fopinion%2Fon-my-mind%2F2025-07-03-conway-williams-why-esg-still-matters%2F

Viv Vermaak | 6 July 2025 World attention is increasingly focused on South Africa. In the vast, rich country of extremes and diversity, human dramas are played off every day. It is the country of gold, diamonds, apartheid and Soweto. Despite this, a crucial element of South African political reality has largely escaped detection: the BEE billionaires. The above paragraph is the inside blurb of the best-selling book: The Super Afrikaners . I just changed the words “The Afrikaner Broederbond” with “BEE billionaires”. This highly organised clique of super-rich black businesspeople has, by a sophisticated political intrigue, waged a remarkable campaign to harness political, social and economic power. Again, this sentence is from the book. I only changed the concept of “Afrikaner” to “super-rich black businesspeople”. President Ramaphosa is correct in referencing the economic emancipation of the Afrikaner as a valid comparison when discussing the legislative force behind BBBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment). He said to Corné Mulder in Parliament: “The history of your people, they became economically empowered because of the laws that were put in place, the sweet deals they were given, and they became more and more serious economic players.” Mulder could not argue, as Ramaphosa’s observations are valid, and I believe in good faith. We need more black people to become economic players, as well as economic empowerment, to widen. Our bottom 50% of poor people have hardly been uplifted. Who will help them? History has shown that small groups of individuals, an ‘elite’, hold a disproportionate amount of power and influence in society, shaping policies and decisions that affect everyone. According to ‘elite theory’, these small groups are not only present in politics, but in financial institutions, think tanks, corporations and societal structures. The basic tenet of this theory is that power is concentrated. The elites are unified, the non-elites are diverse and powerless. Elites’ interests are fused due to common backgrounds and positions, and the defining characteristic of power is institutional position. Examples of this might be the Afrikaner Broederbond, the PayPal Mafia, the ‘Tech Bro’ billionaires in the USA, the Russian oligarchy, any government, really, lobby interest groups, and the BEE billionaires. Depending on the group’s vision, its influence might be positive or negative on society at large, and might have an impact on history itself. Motives of the beneficiaries In South Africa, the motives of the beneficiaries of BEE are increasingly being questioned. Wits professor William Gumede is quoted as saying: “Black Economic Empowerment has led to increased poverty, unemployment and inequality in South Africa. Over R1 trillion has moved between fewer than 100 (politically connected) individuals since 1994. The same people have been empowered and re-empowered over and over again for decades.” Genuine South African entrepreneurs who are not politically connected do not benefit from BEE funding. It is a sentiment echoed by the liberal and righter-wing press. In a phenomenon named ‘economic capture’, it is claimed that 100 black businesspeople are capitalising on 1 trillion rand. One can assume the commentariat knows the names of these people; otherwise, they would not be making such confident claims. They should publish these names so we can all be educated. The list can be called: The Super Blacks . Someone can write a book about the B-BBEEB (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Billionaires). Is it economic capture, or is a lot of wealth creation happening, we just don’t know about it? Let us investigate. A trillion rand sure can build a lot of homes, fix a lot of infrastructure, and create many jobs for the lower classes. Marius Roodt, deputy editor of the Daily Friend and regular contributor to the Daily Friend Show, recently jokingly referred to the elite as ‘upper-class twits.’ It is a colourful phrase that demystifies these shadowy groups and points out their disconnect from the majority of the people in the country. Of course, not all twits are upper class, not all upper-class people are twits, and many of us are an upper-class twit to someone else, but South Africans are starting to realise that a form of money hoarding is taking place here in the name of ’empowerment.’ I recall, as a child, the outrage caused when Super-Afrikaners was published. The Afrikaans community had two reactions at the same time; the first a denial that the Broederbond existed, the second that it was a bloody cheek that the names of the non-existent group were made public. Everybody rushed to see if they or their family were on the list. You would be simultaneously relieved if your family was not outed, while also being disappointed that they were not somehow in line to receive some of the largesse. Someone should do it The book published a comprehensive membership list of 7,500 names. So, to print but a  hundred names would not take up that much space, would it? It can fit into a column. Someone should do it. Then we can see what we are dealing with and move the topic out of ‘conspiracy’ territory. The Broederbond list included members in the cabinet, prominent churchmen, school principals, geologists, receivers of revenue, farmers, jewellers, doctors and building contractors. More importantly, it revealed a highly organised mindset of harnessing skill around a single cause – to advance the interest of your group. Nothing wrong with that, and it is clear that BEE initiatives advance the financial interest of black groups. The next step is to make the first two Bs in the B-BBEE real. Trickle-down economics must become a stream. South African billionaire and mining magnate Patrice Motsepe is a great philanthropist and is known for his generosity. He is said to have pledged half (50%) of his wealth to the ‘Giving Pledge’ upon death, which will be distributed to charity. We might ask if he is prepared to consider a type of living pledge where we dedicate a significantly smaller portion of his wealth to helping the government with projects they seem to be struggling with: housing, job creation or infrastructure maintenance. I am not suggesting charity; it is real change. It is a project where the wealthy and successful directly step in and do the work our government is failing to do. We publish their successes and replicate them. He likes fixing things Johann Rupert, while not black, is certainly upper-class, and a right royal twit for telling the American president he sleeps with his doors open in his luxury mansion with security guards, showing exactly the disconnect Roodt was talking about. Rupert can be an honorary member. We can add Rob Hersov; he likes fixing things. Plus − ask Magda Wierzycka to join. We’ll call them the B-BBEEB+. Let those with the means and authority share it with others. Each billionaire or super-rich businessperson can pick an area of contribution and dedicate a year and R10 million, not for profit, but for the future. 100 Billionaires, a hundred fixes. They can pick which projects they want: building a house, fixing schools, assisting with title deed transfers, supporting startup enterprises, upgrading a clinic, anti-corruption fundamentals, basic learning skills, entry-level building skills, projects teaching South Africans how to speak to each other without descending into race arguments, economic growth theory, making a community safer with working lights, patching up a train station, building a community garden, upgrading a road, sponsoring a police vehicle, economic growth basics, lessons in how to be a good councillor, broadening employment opportunities, building another house, creating another job.  A small group like the B-BBEEB+ can change the course of this country in a short space of time – if they set their minds and money to it. We have to get started now. Our country needs the Super Blacks. Call a summit, get them all in the same room. I can imagine the opening speech at such a gathering: “Show me a greater power ….” “Do you realise what a powerful force is gathered tonight between these four walls? Show me a greater power on the whole continent of Africa! Show me a greater power anywhere…” This speech was made by H.J. Klopper at the celebration of the Broederbond’s 50 th anniversary. The wheel turns, as President Ramaphosa correctly points out. It is time for another group to deploy their powerful forces. BEE has transferred enormous capacity and opportunity to its beneficiaries. But with that comes responsibility. It needs to make its circle bigger. If this group can agree on a common vision for economic growth, while opposing enrichment for the few, the future of this country will take a different trajectory. Moreover, if the BEE 100 takes up the challenge, the rest of SA, in all its rainbow colours, will be cheering them on. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://dailyfriend.co.za/2025/07/06/the-bee-100-publish-their-names/

Seth Thorne | 6 July 2025 The Department of Tourism (DoT) has confirmed that it is investigating allegations of irregularities in its flagship multi-million-rand programme aimed at boosting tourism safety and tackling youth unemployment. The Tourism Monitors Programme (TMP) is under scrutiny after allegations of a manipulated tender process surfaced around a recent contract awarded at KwaZulu-Natal’s (KZN) Ezemvelo Nature Reserve, raising concerns about the broader programme. In KwaZulu-Natal, the company awarded the contract was initially disqualified for failing to meet a requirement to have a physical office in the province – a condition that was amended at the eleventh hour. Despite also falling short of the minimum scoring threshold in Gauteng’s preliminary evaluation, the company was ultimately awarded the contract. Meanwhile, another firm that was earmarked for the project claims that, despite engaging officials regarding an “imminent” official appointment, the bid “was ripped from under [their] feet.” DoT spokesperson Tasneem Carrim confirmed with BusinessTech that all these allegations are currently under investigation. The appointed company maintains that its hands are clean, was never informed of any disqualification, and claims it has successfully implemented the project. Tourism is a critical component of South Africa’s economy, but it continues to be marred by issues related to crime, prompting the development of the National Tourism Safety Strategy. Tourism Monitors collaborate with SAPS and other law enforcement and receive safety training through a National Certificate in General Safety Practices (NQF Level 3). The TMP places unemployed youth at high-traffic tourist sites to boost safety and gain work experience through the Expanded Public Works Programme. Backed by a R174.5 million budget, it trained and placed over 2,300 monitors last year through various implementing agents. Controversy around the bidding A specific controversy centres on the appointment of service providers to manage the programme’s implementation at the Ezemvelo Nature Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal. Thembanathi Group, a skills development and training company, responded to calls for bids for an 18-month contract, bidding for the Ezemvelo and KZN tenders, for R3.17 million and R4.32 million, respectively. Preliminary Bid Evaluation Committee (BEC) minutes from December 2023, seen by BusinessTech, show that Thembanathi Group received an initial average technical evaluation score of 90.33 for Ezemvelo and 90.67 for KwaZulu-Natal – the highest among bidders in that round. In their final round of evaluations among shortlisted companies, Thembanathi placed second in the KZN bid, scoring 93.18 out of 100, trailing behind another bidder who achieved a perfect score of 100 out of 100. For Ezemvelo, they received the third highest score of 82.31. The minutes state that they were “recommended for Ezemvelo as the two highest bidders are already recommended for two sites.” Subsequently, DoT officials contacted and conducted a due diligence site visit at Thembanathi. Thembanathi was later briefly announced as the successful bidder for Ezemvelo on the DoT’s website. However, it was subsequently removed from the site, and no formal appointment letter was sent. According to communications seen by BusinessTech, the DoT sent an invitation to the group on January 10, 2024, for an introductory meeting of appointed service providers scheduled for January 12. Thembanathi was also asked to begin behind-the-scenes tasks, including recruiting learners, to avoid delays. They were introduced to Ezemvelo Wildlife Management and tasked with consolidating online and in-person applications with the reserve’s project manager. According to its CEO, Ntokozo Gwala, Thembanathi invested resources and contracted staff in anticipation of starting the project. On 22 January 2024, they were informed that the DoT planned to offer an induction workshop for service providers on 29 and 30 January 2024, to which they had initially been invited. Just after this, Gwala was allegedly instructed by a senior official to put everything on hold. Project “ripped from under our feet,” say Thembanathi According to Thembanathi, they learned that their “imminent appointment” had been withdrawn because the department said that its own Terms of Reference (ToRs) requiring service providers to have a physical office in the province of operation were “discriminatory”. “We were literally on the road to collect CVs when we received this call. No reasons were provided for this instruction,” said Gwala. A 21 December 2023 Departmental Bid Adjudication Committee meeting noted Thembanthi as the recommended bidder for Ezemvelo, but they decided to reconsider disqualified bidders. In the initial meeting in early December 2023, the BEC disqualified MMC Business Solutions JV Siva Security Services from Ezemvelo for failing to provide proof of office in the province they applied for, instead submitting proof for Gauteng.  According to paragraph 3.3 of their ToR, “bidders… must have a physical office within the province they are applying for and submit proof thereof.” However, during a BEC meeting on 24 January 2024, the disqualification of unsuccessful bidders was reconsidered. They said that they did not explicitly “state in the ToRs that… Ezemvelo requires proof of office in KZN.” Applicants for ACSA and SANBI sites were not held to the office requirements. The minutes stated that the Departmental Bid Adjudication Committee “requested that the principle used for disqualifying and qualifying bidders should be applicable across.” The January 2024 BEC meeting resolved to recommend MMC Business Solutions Joint Venture with Siva Security Services for the Ezemvelo Nature Reserve project, saying that they were the “third highest bidder,” and not Thembanathi. They approved the award at a cost of R2.86 million, lower than Thembanthi’s. Other allegations Gwala contends that if the ToRs were discriminatory as stated by the committee, “the correct and ethical” procedure would have been to re-advertise the bid with revised terms, not to change the process internally, alleging it to be “flawed and corrupt.” According to discussions among individuals familiar with the department, there are allegations that the BEC chairperson heavily influenced the decision to change course. He allegedly had a connection with someone involved with the service provider through their church. In response to questions from BusinessTech, the chairperson said that although he knows of the person given that they attend the same denomination, he does “not have a personal relationship with him.” Asked whether the fact that they knew of each other influenced the awarding of the bid, the chairperson categorically stated, “absolutely not.” “I was involved in the BEC, [and the accused’s] profile was not featured in any of the documents I evaluated,” he said. “The BEC does not award bids. It merely evaluates and recommends to the BAC.” “The Department has clear and robust supply chain management policies in place, which include the declaration of interest forms, oversight by multiple governance structures such as the BAC.” Gwala also questioned how “someone who was deemed technically weak to run the project in Gauteng, would suddenly be good enough to run the same project in KZN (Ezemvelo).”  According to BEC minutes, the joint venture’s preliminary evaluation score for Gauteng was 74.67. As such, it was “disqualified for further evaluation, as they failed to meet the minimum required score of 80 points,” for further evaluation, according to the minutes. Thembanathi Group has lodged complaints with the Public Protector, the Minister’s office, and the Presidency. The matter is now being pursued through legal channels. Responses to the accusations Pearl Maluleke, Director of Siva Security and MMC Joint Venture, told BusinessTech that “at no point were we informed by the Department of Tourism of any disqualification from the procurement process.” “The Joint Venture did not receive any official communication indicating disqualification or any internal procurement findings of that nature.” “Our first formal communication from the Department was the appointment letter, which we received in good order, confirming our successful bid,” added Maluleke. Maluleke said that as no disqualification was formally communicated to them, there was likewise no indication of any change in status that required clarification or justification by the Department. They proceeded in accordance with the appointment and the contractual obligations outlined therein. Maluleke added that the joint venture demonstrated a “commitment to transparent, effective project delivery in support of national tourism development goals.” She added that the project was successfully implemented over a 12-month period, in line with the contract and the Department’s objectives, which the DoT echoed. A total of 150 Tourism Monitors received classroom-based theoretical training, followed by structured workplace experience at various Ezemvelo sites across KwaZulu-Natal. Carrim reiterated that the abovementioned alleged irregularities in the tender process, including interactions between officials and bidders, are currently under investigation.  She said that any allegation of maladministration in the department is taken very seriously, with consequences for any findings of impropriety. She also said that contractual obligations with appointed service providers were “executed satisfactorily,” and stressed that such accusations should not mar the entire project. The project “provides some skill sets to our youth and opens up employment opportunities for them,” along with safety improvements for tourists, added Carrim. Democratic Alliance MP and party tourism spokesperson Haseena Ismail raised “critical concern” about the TMP, calling the programme’s implementation “deeply flawed.” She cites alleged poor oversight, limited training, and procurement irregularities. Her party has called for a full audit of the programme. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/826428/r174-5-million-tourism-safety-tenders-under-the-spotlight-after-serious-allegations/

Gcwalisile Khanyile | 3 July 2025 Land reform beneficiaries in South Africa are experiencing major challenges in making land productive and benefiting from it, due to the lack of post-settlement support. This is because the country’s land reform focuses solely on redistribution, but not equipping beneficiaries with the necessary technical, infrastructural, and financial support to sustain that land, which is an important component in making land redistribution successful but is ignored, according to experts. Dr Shenelle Lottering, from the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, said inputs such as seeds and fertilisers, even basic farming equipment and training, are either limited or absent.  She said this creates a situation where, despite having land, many beneficiaries struggle to farm it productively.  “Customary land tenure adds another layer of complexity, because it is governed communally as well as by traditional authority. So, although it is providing access to land, it is not giving secure land tenure, like what private land ownership would; there is no title deed.  “This becomes an issue when land needs to be used as collateral or to invest long-term in the land, such as through infrastructure, irrigation, or improved soil management practices. In terms of agricultural investment and productivity, the lack of formal land rights in communal areas discourages both public and private investment. Investors are often hesitant to support projects where land tenure is unclear or where there may be disputes over ownership and access,” Lottering said. She added that land reform has had an uneven impact on agricultural productivity. While the moral and political imperatives of land reform are clear, the economic outcomes, particularly in terms of productivity, have been mixed and, in many cases, underwhelming.  “Nationally, what we’ve observed is that while land has been redistributed, in many instances it has not remained as productive. This is not because beneficiaries are incapable, but largely due to the lack of coordinated post-transfer support; things such as access to capital, training, and markets are often missing. As a result, many redistributed farms experience a decline in productivity, especially in the early years. “Regionally, the picture is more nuanced. In some provinces like Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal, where communal tenure systems and traditional leadership structures are strong, you often see different dynamics playing out. Here, land may be accessed more easily by communities, but long-term investment is often stifled due to unclear tenure arrangements,” Lottering said.  Conversely, in provinces like the Western Cape, where some reform projects have been better supported, often with stronger partnerships between the state, NGOs, and commercial farmers, we’ve seen relatively more successful models of land reform that maintain or even improve productivity. But these are still the exception rather than the norm, she said. She added that land reform should be approached not just as a political or economic issue, which is happening in South Africa, but as a long-term investment in building inclusive, resilient rural economies that can contribute meaningfully to national food security and poverty reduction. “New interventions should include stronger support for beneficiary selection and preparation, structured post-settlement support packages, and partnerships with experienced commercial players and NGOs. Importantly, policies must actively promote the inclusion of women, youth, and marginalised groups. Without this inclusion, there will be no success as women are the backbone of agriculture and the youth are the future of agriculture,” Lottering said. In 1994, total farm land with title deeds, thus outside what the apartheid government set aside for black people, covered 77.58 million hectares of South Africa’s total surface area of 122 million hectares. During his 2024 State of the Nation Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa said: “Through redistribution, around 25% of farmland in our country is now owned by black South Africans, bringing us closer to achieving our target of 30% by 2030.” A total of 19.3 million hectares, or 24.9% of all freehold farmland in South Africa, previously owned by white landowners, has been restored, redistributed to black South Africans, or moved to state ownership, according to agricultural experts from Stellenbosch University. Professor Johann Kirsten, the Director of the Bureau for Economic Research at Stellenbosch University said that although the number may look heartening, given that it is close to the 30% target set out in the National Development Plan, the issue of concern is that the state is now a major owner of agricultural land with more than 2.5 million hectares. This is through the Agricultural Land Holding Account Trading Entity, which acquires land and property under the Proactive Land Acquisition Scheme, implemented in 2006, to allow state ownership for programme lessees. Kirsten said by June 2023, the state had acquired 2.5 million hectares of productive farmland through the programme. “Most of the roughly 2,500 beneficiaries have a 30-year lease agreement with the state. There are several farms where no agreement has been signed. The arrangement makes reference to the leasing of land. But there’s no mention of the transfer or sale of land to beneficiaries,” he said. The acquisition strategy was a noble attempt at land reform. It had some clear objectives: acquire land of high agricultural potential; integrate black farmers into the commercial agricultural sector; improve beneficiary selection; improve land use planning; and ensure optimal productive land use, Kirsten said. “But the programme has been disappointing. Virtually no land has been transferred to individuals. Most is leased to beneficiaries, and in some cases, the farms are illegally occupied. More than half of the current beneficiaries on the leased land have not shown any substantial agricultural production,” he highlighted. Kirsten added that land should be in the hands and control of entrepreneurs, not the government. “It is of the utmost importance that the government must act on this ineffective and politically charged system of land leases and ensure that beneficiaries are getting secure rights to the land. If not, the question about why there are so few successful black commercial farmers in South Africa will continue to be asked,” he said. According to Stellenbosch’s Bureau for Economic Research, the factors behind this failure include poor beneficiary selection, inadequate support and infrastructure, and rampant crime. Inadequate post-settlement support, stakeholders appointed to support the new farmers were poorly monitored and not working in an integrated manner, and agricultural infrastructure, both off-farm and on-farm, needed attention. The Bureau based its piece on a 2019 research report by the Agricultural Research Council for the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform, which was not publicly disclosed. The Bureau also noted that the failures mentioned suggest that the state will always be a poor player in redistributing land, as it will always hold on to it. In a piece co-authored by Kirsten and Wandile Sihlobo, a senior fellow at the Department of Agricultural Economics at Stellenbosch University, and published by The Conversation , they highlight that calls for the state to redistribute the 2.5 million hectares of land to black farmers have been falling on deaf ears, and black farmers continue to despair. “The government has been slow to distribute the land it has acquired. This shows that the problem of South Africa’s land reform is not only about acquisition but also the distribution of land with title deeds to beneficiaries,” Kirsten and Sihlobo said. The experts also clarified that there are more black farmers in South Africa than white farmers.  “And not all white commercial farm operations are ‘large-scale’, and not all black farmers are ‘small-scale’, ‘subsistence’ or ‘emerging’. Most farm operations can be classified as micro or small in scale. “Indeed, we are a country of two agricultures with black farmers mainly at a small scale and accounting for roughly 10% of the commercial agricultural output. Still, this doesn’t mean they are not active in the sector. They mainly still require support to expand and increase output, but they are active,” Kirsten and Sihlobo said. They said that the government’s Blended Finance programme, in collaboration with the development finance institutions and other financial institutions, should provide financial support to the selected beneficiaries.  Kirsten and Nick Vink, a professor of Agricultural Economics at Stellenbosch University, said South Africa used to have an extensive support system for farmers, and under apartheid, white farmers received a host of subsidies. South Africa reached high levels of overall subsidisation of agriculture in the late 1980s. These were so pervasive that the country was on a par with the EU and US when measured on a per capita basis, the experts said.  A request for comment was sent to the Department of Land and Rural Development three weeks ago. Linda Page, the department’s spokesperson, did not respond despite multiple promises to do so. Reminders were also ignored. ‘Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the BEE CHAMBER’. https://iol.co.za/news/south-africa/2025-07-03-land-reform-challenges-hindering-black-farmers-from-thriving-in-south-africa/