Author: Nhlanhla Mabunda

Looking to explore Cape Town and the Western Cape? Wesgro, the official tourism, trade, and investment agency, has introduced an innovative suite of digital resources called “Playbooks” to showcase the region as a top travel destination. The Playbooks include itineraries, maps, images, videos, and blogs, all easily accessible on Wesgro’s website. Tourism, contributing 10% to the region’s GDP, stands to benefit from these resources. CEO Wrenelle Stander stated that the Playbooks aim to address challenges faced by the industry, especially post-pandemic. The resources are free to use and can be repurposed by the tourism industry, making it easier to market…

Extortionists are wreaking havoc in Western Cape communities and government officials, committing various crimes such as murder, robbery, intimidation, and kidnapping. Despite the prevalence of these crimes, many incidents go unreported to the police. Provincial police commissioner Lt-Gen Thembisile Patekile has called on the public to report extortion cases promptly. He emphasized that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is ready to address these issues and has set up an extortion task team to investigate and combat extortion-related crimes. Patekile highlighted the importance of reporting incidents through SAPS’ toll-free number, 0800 314 444, assuring the public that information will be…

The growth of the construction industry in South Africa is being hindered by issues such as late payments, extortion, protection fees, and construction site takeovers. Deputy public works and infrastructure minister Sihle Zikalala emphasized the importance of eliminating these criminal activities to ensure the sector’s development. Efforts by national, provincial, and local government to combat extortion and its disruptive impact on businesses, service delivery, and street vendors have been highlighted. Zikalala commended the police for taking action against extortionists during his speech at the annual Master Builders South Africa conference in Gqeberha. While promoting economic transformation and addressing exploitation in…

Tobacco traders are expressing their dissatisfaction with the reintroduction of the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill in parliament. The National Informal Traders Alliance of SA (NITASA) believes this move ignores South Africa’s democratic process and the unity of the new government. Rosheda Muller, NITASA president, emphasized the need for the legislative process to begin anew. The organization represents thousands of informal traders and has voiced concerns about the negative impact the bill could have on their businesses. Muller emphasized the importance of inclusivity and unity in decision-making processes within the Government of National Unity (GNU). NITASA has…