Sechaba Youth

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  • South Africa’s Proposed Budget for 2025/26 and How it Affects You

    On 12 March 2025, South Africa’s Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, delivered the national budget speech, outlining the government’s fiscal plans amidst economic challenges. A notable aspect of the budget was the proposed 0.5% increase in Value-Added Tax (VAT) from the current 15%, effective from 1 May 2025. Allocation of Funds in the 2025 Budget

    The 2025 budget prioritises several key sectors to stimulate economic growth and address pressing social issues:

    Education and Early Childhood Development:

    Recognising the foundational importance of early education, the government has allocated funds to enhance early learning centres and improve literacy and numeracy among young children. This initiative aims to address the alarming statistic that over 80% of 10-year-olds in South Africa cannot read for meaning.

    Electric Vehicle (EV) Production:

    To transition the automotive industry towards sustainable energy, the government has committed R1 billion to support local production of electric vehicles, batteries, and related manufacturing projects. This investment is expected to attract significant private sector funding and position South Africa as a key player in the EV market.

    Healthcare:

    In response to ongoing public health challenges, the budget includes increased funding for healthcare services, aiming to improve infrastructure, access, and quality of care across the country.

    Infrastructure Development:

    Significant investments are planned for infrastructure projects, including transportation networks and energy supply, to bolster economic activity and create employment opportunities.

    Impact of the 0.5% VAT Increase on Ordinary Citizens

    The proposed VAT increase from 15% to 15.5% has sparked discussions regarding its potential impact on South African households:

    • Cost of Living: A higher VAT rate will raise the cost of most goods and services, including essential items such as food, clothing, and transportation. This increase is particularly concerning for low- and middle-income households, who spend a larger proportion of their income on consumables.

    • Inflationary Pressures: The VAT hike could contribute to inflation, further eroding purchasing power. Previous VAT increases have been associated with a rise in inflation, leading to higher interest rates and increased financial strain on consumers. • Economic Inequality: Critics argue that VAT is a regressive tax, disproportionately affecting the working class and the poor. Organisations like the South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) have expressed strong opposition to the increase, suggesting it will deepen existing inequalities and exacerbate economic hardships. In conclusion, while the 2025 budget aims to address critical areas such as education, sustainable energy, healthcare, and infrastructure, the proposed 0.5% VAT increase raises concerns about its impact on the cost of living and economic inequality.

    As the government seeks to balance fiscal responsibility with social welfare, it faces the challenge of implementing policies that promote growth without disproportionately burdening vulnerable populations.

  • Reviving the Free State: A Blueprint for Economic Growth

    Reviving the Free State: A Blueprint for Economic Growth

    The Free State Province, situated at the heart of South Africa, boasts rich agricultural land, a strong mining sector, and a strategic location for trade. However, persistent unemployment, deteriorating infrastructure, and poor governance have stifled its economic potential. A proactive and functioning government must implement bold strategies to revitalise the province, create jobs, and attract investment. Here’s how.

    Modernising Agriculture and Agro-Processing

    Agriculture has long been the backbone of the Free State economy, but outdated methods and limited market access have hindered growth. To boost this sector, the government must:

    Invest in Irrigation and Water Management: Many farms suffer from inconsistent water supply. Developing sustainable irrigation systems and water conservation projects will improve productivity.

    Support Emerging Farmers: Providing financial support, farming equipment, and training to small-scale and emerging farmers will create jobs and strengthen food security.

    Expand Agro-Processing Facilities: Establishing food-processing plants for dairy, grains, and meat products will add value to raw produce, increase exports, and create employment.

    Strengthening Infrastructure and Logistics

    The Free State’s location makes it a key transport and logistics hub, but poor infrastructure is holding it back. Immediate priorities should include:

    Upgrading Roads and Railways: Repairing pothole-ridden roads and revitalising rail networks will improve trade efficiency and attract investors.

    Developing Logistics Hubs: Creating centralised transport and warehousing facilities near major highways can establish the Free State as a leading logistics centre.

    Improving Energy and Water Supply: Ensuring stable electricity and reliable water supply is crucial for businesses, especially in agriculture and manufacturing.

    Revitalising Mining and Industrial Development

    The mining sector, particularly gold and diamond extraction, remains significant, but declining reserves and job losses are a concern. The province must:

    Diversify Beyond Gold: Encouraging investment in alternative minerals such as uranium and rare earth elements can create new opportunities.

    Develop Mining Towns into Industrial Zones: Establishing special economic zones (SEZs) in former mining towns can attract manufacturing and technology industries.

    Promote Ethical and Sustainable Mining: Enforcing stricter environmental policies and rehabilitation plans will ensure long-term sustainability.

    Supporting Small Businesses and Entrepreneurship

    A thriving small business sector is essential for job creation. The government should:

    Offer Low-Interest Loans and Grants: Providing financial assistance to startups and small enterprises will drive economic activity.

    Create Business Incubators: Establishing entrepreneurship hubs in urban and rural areas will provide mentorship, training, and market access.

    Promote the Township Economy: Supporting local businesses such as spaza shops, mechanics, and textile producers will stimulate grassroots development.

    Expanding Tourism and Heritage Development

    The Free State is rich in cultural and natural attractions, yet tourism remains underdeveloped. Key actions include:

    Marketing the Province as a Tourist Destination: Aggressive promotion of sites like the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Basotho cultural villages, and historic war sites will attract visitors.

    Developing Eco-Tourism and Adventure Activities: Investing in hiking trails, game reserves, and water sports at the Gariep Dam can diversify tourism offerings.

    Strengthening Safety Measures: Ensuring tourist safety through improved law enforcement will encourage more local and international visitors.

    Investing in Education and Skills Development

    A well-trained workforce is key to economic growth. The government must:

    Improve Basic Education: Upgrading school facilities and investing in teacher training will enhance learning outcomes.

    Expand Technical and Vocational Training: Strengthening TVET colleges and offering apprenticeships in fields like engineering, agriculture, and logistics will prepare young people for the job market.

    Encourage Partnerships with Businesses: Collaborating with the private sector to provide internships and on-the-job training will ease the transition from education to employment.

    Strengthening Governance and Combating Corruption

    Poor governance and corruption have hindered development. A functioning government must:

    Enforce Transparency and Accountability: Implementing strict financial controls and holding corrupt officials accountable will restore public trust.

    Digitise Public Services: Online systems for business registrations, permits, and payments will reduce bureaucracy and increase efficiency.

    Encourage Community Participation: Involving citizens in decision-making processes will ensure that development projects address real needs.

    The Free State has the potential to become a dynamic economic hub, but this requires strong leadership and strategic investment. By modernising agriculture, improving infrastructure, supporting small businesses, expanding tourism, and strengthening governance, the province can create sustainable jobs and long-term economic prosperity. With the right policies in place, the Free State can transform into a thriving centre of opportunity for all its residents.

  • Elon Musks Twitter/X Hit with Cyberattack

    On Monday, 10th March 2025, the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, experienced multiple outages throughout the day, affecting tens of thousands of users worldwide. The disruptions began around 11:30 AM GMT, with a significant spike in outage reports peaking at approximately 2:00 PM GMT, as tracked by Downdetector. 

    Elon Musk, the owner of X, attributed these interruptions to a “massive cyberattack.” He suggested that the attack was executed with substantial resources, potentially implicating a large, coordinated group or even a nation-state. Musk stated, “We get attacked every day, but this was done with a lot of resources. Either a large, coordinated group and/or a country is involved.” 

    The outages affected both the X mobile application and its website, with users reporting issues such as the platform not loading, continuous buffering, and error messages indicating that posts were not loading. These technical difficulties persisted intermittently throughout the day, leading to significant disruptions in user access. 

    In response to the outages, many users turned to alternative social media platforms, such as Threads and BlueSky, to discuss and seek information about the situation. 

    As of the latest reports, X’s technical teams are actively investigating the source of the cyberattack and working to restore full functionality to the platform. Users are advised to stay updated through official channels for further information regarding the service status. 

  • Israel’s Siege on Gaza: A Crime Against Humanity and the Complicity of Its Allies

    In one of the most harrowing humanitarian crises of our time, Israel has cut electricity and stopped the supply of food, water, and essential aid into Gaza, plunging over two million Palestinians into unimaginable suffering. This deliberate act of collective punishment is not just morally indefensible—it is a blatant violation of international law. Yet, despite the sheer horror unfolding before the world’s eyes, many Western governments, including the United States and the United Kingdom, continue to support Israel, making them complicit in this atrocity.

    The Unfolding Humanitarian Catastrophe

    Since Israel imposed a total siege on Gaza, conditions have rapidly deteriorated. With electricity cut off, hospitals are struggling to function, relying on dwindling fuel reserves to keep life-support machines running. Medical facilities are overwhelmed, unable to provide adequate care to the injured, sick, and vulnerable.

    The blockade on food and water is pushing Gaza’s civilians—half of whom are children—toward mass starvation. With no fresh supplies entering, shelves are empty, and families are left scavenging for scraps. The lack of clean water has made the risk of disease outbreaks dangerously high, worsening an already dire situation.

    This is not a mere byproduct of war; it is a calculated strategy to inflict maximum suffering on an entire population. Collective punishment is illegal under international law, yet Israel carries it out with impunity.

    A Crime Against Humanity


    The deliberate targeting of civilians by depriving them of basic necessities constitutes a war crime under the Geneva Conventions. Cutting off electricity, blocking food, and preventing humanitarian aid from reaching desperate civilians are clear violations of human rights and international law.

    Despite these blatant violations, Israel continues to justify its actions under the guise of self-defence. But there is no justification for starving an entire population, for depriving babies of milk, or for leaving hospitals to collapse under the weight of the wounded. These actions are not about security; they are about inflicting suffering, breaking the spirit of a people, and further entrenching a system of oppression.

    The Shameful Complicity of Israel’s Allies

    Perhaps even more disturbing than Israel’s actions is the unwavering support it receives from its Western allies. Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany continue to provide military aid, diplomatic cover, and financial support, enabling Israel’s crimes to continue.

    By supplying weapons and funding, these nations are directly contributing to the atrocities being committed against the Palestinian people. By blocking UN resolutions and silencing calls for justice, they shield Israel from accountability. Their inaction in the face of genocide speaks volumes: they are not just bystanders; they are active participants in this unfolding horror.

    The Urgent Need for Action

    The international community must demand an immediate end to Israel’s blockade of Gaza. Governments must stop arming and funding a regime that commits war crimes. The people of the world must rise in protest, refusing to allow their leaders to be complicit in this brutal oppression.

    Humanitarian organisations must be granted unrestricted access to Gaza to deliver desperately needed aid. The siege must end, and those responsible must be held accountable for their crimes.

    History will remember this moment. It will remember who stood up against injustice and who turned a blind eye to suffering. The world must act now—before it is too late.



  • Saving the North West Province: A Path to Economic Revival

    The North West Province of South Africa, rich in natural resources and cultural heritage, faces severe economic challenges. High unemployment, poor governance, and a declining infrastructure have crippled its growth potential. However, with the right policies, leadership, and investment, the province could become a thriving economic hub. A functioning government must take decisive action to create jobs, develop industries, and rebuild infrastructure. Here’s how.

    Industrial Diversification and Investment

    The North West Province heavily relies on mining, which, while lucrative, is not sustainable in the long term. The government must promote industrial diversification by:

    Revitalising Agriculture: Large-scale investment in modern farming techniques, irrigation systems, and agricultural co-operatives could turn the province into a major food producer. Partnering with private investors to develop agro-processing facilities will also create jobs and boost exports.

    Developing Manufacturing Hubs: Establishing industrial parks that attract manufacturers—particularly in steel production, food processing, and textiles—can provide employment and reduce dependency on mining.

    Encouraging Renewable Energy Projects: Given the region’s climate, solar and wind energy farms could provide both jobs and reliable electricity, reducing the frequent power outages that hinder business operations.

    Infrastructure Development

    A lack of well-maintained roads, water supply, and electricity deters investment. To address this, the government must:

    Repair and Expand Transport Networks: Investing in roads and railways will improve trade routes, especially for agricultural and mining exports. This will also make the province more attractive to investors.

    Upgrade Public Utilities: Fixing water supply issues and ensuring stable electricity will provide the basic conditions necessary for businesses to operate efficiently.

    Develop Smart Cities: Urban planning initiatives that integrate technology, efficient transport, and business-friendly environments will attract new enterprises and skilled workers.

    Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development

    Encouraging entrepreneurship is key to reducing unemployment. The government should:

    Provide Start-up Capital: Launching grant and micro-loan programmes targeted at young entrepreneurs will encourage innovation and job creation.

    Support Township Economies: Funding local businesses, such as bakeries, tailors, and mechanics, will stimulate grassroots economic activity and reduce reliance on large corporations.

    Offer Business Training: Establishing business incubators and mentorship programmes will equip entrepreneurs with the skills to manage and grow their enterprises.

    Education and Skills Development

    A skilled workforce is essential for economic growth. The province must:Improve Basic Education: Investing in school infrastructure, teacher training, and digital learning tools will enhance literacy and numeracy levels.

    Expand Vocational Training: Strengthening TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges will equip young people with skills in sectors such as construction, IT, and engineering.

    Forge Partnerships with Private Companies: Encouraging businesses to offer apprenticeships and internships will provide hands-on experience for job seekers.

    Boosting Tourism

    The North West Province has immense tourism potential, with attractions such as the Pilanesberg National Park and Sun City. To revitalise this sector, the government must:

    Improve Tourism Infrastructure: Upgrading roads, signage, and accommodation facilities will enhance visitor experiences.

    Promote Cultural and Eco-Tourism: Supporting community-driven tourism initiatives, such as guided village tours and traditional craft markets, will create sustainable jobs.

    Strengthen Safety and Security: Ensuring the safety of tourists through increased policing and community engagement will encourage more visitors.

    Strengthening Governance and Combating Corruption

    Corruption and mismanagement have severely hampered progress in the province. A functioning government should:

    Enforce Accountability: Implementing strict financial oversight and ensuring that public funds are used efficiently will restore public trust.

    Digitise Government Services: E-government platforms can reduce bureaucracy and increase efficiency in service delivery.

    Encourage Public Participation: Involving communities in decision-making processes will ensure that government projects address real needs.

    The North West Province has the resources and potential to become an economic powerhouse, but only if the government takes bold and decisive action. By investing in industry, infrastructure, entrepreneurship, education, tourism, and governance, the province can create jobs, reduce poverty, and stimulate long-term economic development. The time for action is now—before the opportunity for transformation is lost.

  • McDonald’s and Old Mutual’s Midesk Donations Put Corporate Advertising Over Students’ Needs

    McDonald’s and Old Mutual are donating Midesk foldable tables to students. These tables are large and must be carried daily. While this may seem generous, it primarily serves corporate advertising interests rather than students’ educational needs.

    Midesk Tables Are Inconvenient for Students

    Children already carry heavy school bags. Adding large, foldable desks increases their burden. Instead of helping, this donation creates inconvenience. The focus should be on providing permanent classroom desks, not promotional furniture students must transport.

    Corporate Logos Prioritised Over Practical Solutions

    The donated Midesk tables feature prominent corporate branding. Instead of discreet support, McDonald’s and Old Mutual use students as walking billboards. Their logos receive daily exposure while students struggle with impractical furniture.

    Schools Need Permanent Infrastructure, Not Marketing Gimmicks

    South African schools lack proper infrastructure. Many need desks, chairs, and classrooms. A real solution would be permanent furniture, not temporary fixes that benefit corporations more than students.

    Corporations Should Contribute Without Self-Promotion

    If McDonald’s and Old Mutual genuinely cared, they would fund proper classroom furniture. Instead, they prioritise brand visibility over meaningful change. True corporate responsibility means supporting education without exploiting students for advertising.

    McDonald’s and Old Mutual’s Midesk donations are a marketing strategy disguised as generosity. Students deserve real support, not branded burdens. Corporations should invest in permanent solutions that truly benefit education. What is worse is the idea that the Department of Basic Education through the Minister Gwarube willfully endorsed this by advertising this. Many agencies are involved in this initiative with Midesk which then puts into context why this made sense in any way or fashion.