From Paper Promises to Poured Foundations: How Two Higher Education Projects Tell South Africa’s Ultimate Story

A tale of two universities is unfolding in South Africa, perfectly capturing the stark contrast between nimble private initiatives and sluggish state-driven projects. While one is rapidly taking shape in Pretoria, the other remains little more than an unfulfilled promise in Ekurhuleni.

Here is a closer look at how these two major higher education developments stack up against each other.

The Public Promise: Ekurhuleni’s Ghost Campus

Back during his February 2020 State of the Nation Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa laid out an ambitious vision: building a brand-new University of Science and Innovation in Ekurhuleni. On paper, it was a brilliant move. Ekurhuleni stands as the country’s only major metropolitan area without its own university, and South Africa desperately needs to plug its massive tech and scientific skills gap.

The goal was to equip the next generation with cutting-edge tech skills for the industries of tomorrow. Yet, six years later, the reality on the ground tells a completely different story.

• The Timeline: A feasibility study was wrapped up in 2021. By late 2024, local government officials were still meeting to discuss “phase two” planning, aiming for a 2025 kickoff on the old Cinderella Prison grounds.

• The Current Reality: A recent look at the site reveals zero signs of life. No bulldozers, no construction crews, and no cleared land—just wild bushes and a crumbling, dilapidated building.

The Private Reality: Akademia’s Rapid Rise

Meanwhile, just up the road in Pretoria, a massive private university project is proving how quickly things can move when bureaucratic red tape is stripped away. First announced in August 2024, the new Akademia Campus is already transforming the landscape along Boschkop Road.

Funded entirely through a partnership between the Solidarity movement and property developer Kanton—without a single cent of government aid—this R3 billion mega-project is designed to be a world-class academic hub for 6,500 students.

The sprawling campus plans are incredibly thorough, featuring:

• Academic & Research Hubs: Modern lecture halls, laboratories, dedicated research spaces, and a full experimental farm for agricultural students.

• Student Life: Eight on-campus residences housing 1,500 students, a student center, a massive library, sports facilities, a chapel, and an auditorium.

• Leisure & Community: Cafeterias, local restaurants, and coffee shops designed to foster a vibrant community feel.

Moving at Breaking Speed

Unlike its public counterpart, Akademia went from an announcement to breaking ground in exactly one year. Crews hit the site, and the progress is already impossible to miss. Foundations are actively being poured, walls are going up, and the structural skeleton of the university is rapidly emerging from the dust. Project leaders note that the build is tracking perfectly for its Phase 1 opening on January 1, 2028.

The Takeaway: While the state continues to shuffle paperwork and hold steering committee meetings for a critical tech hub, the private sector is actively pouring concrete. It serves as a textbook example of the efficiency gap plaguing South African infrastructure development today.

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South Africans could soon face a financial storm few saw coming. The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is proposing a policy change that would allow immediate taxation of retirement funds when citizens emigrate or cease tax residency—removing the current three-year grace period that protects such savings.

Framed by Treasury as a “technical correction”, the proposed change, buried in the Draft Taxation Laws Amendment Bill (2025), effectively grants SARS the right to tax retirement benefits the moment one leaves the country. The shift has been dubbed the “Granny Tax” by civil rights group Free SA, which has launched a national campaign to stop what it calls “a raid on retirees’ life savings.”

What The Proposed Law Means

If passed, South Africans with pension or retirement annuity funds could be taxed immediately upon changing tax residency. Previously, a three-year waiting period allowed access to these funds without early taxation. That window may soon vanish.

The stated reason from Treasury: to prevent “double non-taxation” and align the country’s residence-based tax framework with international norms. But critics say it’s another example of the state tightening its grip on private wealth under the guise of reform.

Who Will Be Affected

This isn’t limited to the wealthy. The policy could affect:

• Emigrants and expatriates who saved locally before moving abroad.

• Foreign nationals retiring in South Africa whose overseas pensions may now fall within SARS’s scope.

• Returning citizens who worked abroad and contributed to foreign pension funds, which could lose their tax-exempt status.

In short, it’s anyone who has played by the rules, saved diligently, and sought to retire securely—whether at home or overseas.

Ethical and Legal Questions

Opponents argue the proposal changes the rules after the fact, penalising those who planned their retirements under the old system. There’s also the question of double taxation—many foreign pensions have already been taxed abroad.

Free SA warns that this move, if unchecked, sets a dangerous precedent for future pension interference. Their campaign calls for public consultation, fiscal discipline, and an end to “treating retirees as the government’s ATM.”

According to Free SA, the issue is not about tax fairness—it’s about control. “Instead of fixing corruption, inefficiency, and bailouts,” the group says, “the state is reaching into citizens’ pockets to fill its budget shortfalls.”

A Broader Trend of Economic Overreach

Critics see this as part of a broader pattern—an incremental centralisation of economic power and erosion of financial autonomy. Similar debates have emerged around pension preservation, compulsory fund participation, and even speculation about future nationalisation of retirement assets.

While the government insists the proposal simply closes a loophole, detractors view it as another step toward taxing capital flight rather than addressing why professionals, families, and investors are leaving the country in record numbers.

Public Response and Petition

Free SA’s campaign, Stop the Granny Tax, is calling on South Africans to submit objections directly to Parliament and the National Treasury. Citizens can read more and sign the petition at freesa.org.za.

The organisation warns that without collective pushback, this may only be the beginning—opening the door to forced preservation, pension nationalisation, or other measures that undermine financial independence.

Freedom or Fiscal Feudalism?

The “Granny Tax” debate exposes a fundamental question: Is your retirement truly yours—or does it belong to the state once you’ve stopped working?

For millions of South Africans, the answer could redefine not only their financial future but the very meaning of private ownership in a failing economy.

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On April 2, 2025, Trump outlined his plan to impose tariffs designed to address what he describes as long-standing trade imbalances. China faces the steepest increase with a 34% tariff, followed by Japan (24%), the European Union (20%), and Vietnam (46%). Other nations, including South Korea, India, Thailand, and Taiwan, will see tariffs ranging from 26% to 36%. Canada and Mexico remain exempt under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

Trump emphasized that the tariffs were not a negotiation tactic but a permanent measure to strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign imports. “We’re really not taking it anymore,” he stated during his announcement. “For too long, countries like China, the EU, and even South Africa have benefited from trade deals that hurt American workers. That stops now.”

Reactions to the policy have been mixed. Supporters argue that these tariffs will encourage American companies to bring jobs back to the U.S. and reduce dependency on foreign economies. Critics, however, warn of potential economic repercussions, including higher consumer prices and retaliatory tariffs from affected nations. Economists predict that the average U.S. tariff rate will rise to 25%, surpassing historic levels and potentially driving inflation.

Industries reliant on global supply chains, such as the technology and automotive sectors, are expected to be particularly affected. Companies like Apple, which sources a significant portion of its components from China and other Asian countries, may face increased production costs, potentially leading to higher retail prices.

South Africa, which has strong trade ties with the U.S. through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), is also assessing the potential impact of these tariffs. While not explicitly named among the hardest-hit countries, Trump’s mention of South Africa in his speech has raised concerns among policymakers and exporters. South African industries that rely on U.S. trade, such as the automotive and agricultural sectors, may face uncertainties regarding future trade relations.

International responses have been swift. China condemned the move as “unilateral economic coercion” and hinted at countermeasures, while the European Union and Japan are evaluating their next steps. The tariffs have also unsettled global financial markets, with major stock indices experiencing volatility in response to the announcement.

As the global economy braces for the impact of these tariffs, questions remain about their long-term effectiveness. Will these measures succeed in revitalizing American industries, or will they spark a prolonged trade conflict with far-reaching consequences? The coming months will determine how international markets and policymakers navigate this shift in trade policy.

The post Trump Introduces Sweeping 30% Tariffs, Sparking Global Trade Tensions appeared first on Alt News Network.

What is misinformation is that race-based laws ended in 1994. AfriForum and Solidariteit’s mission to the US was not only to correct that perception but to quantify the extent to which racial demographics are applied in every which way—142 regulatory instances, as research has revealed.

For too long that reality has been ignored as world opinion continued to regard the ANC as worthy stewards of what is seen as post-apartheid South Africa. But that image has now come under scrutiny since the Trump Administration, rightly, is checking on the requirements to qualify for membership of AGOA (African Growth and Opportunities Act).

Even the World Bank has urged the ANC to scale back on regulations which hamper investment and economic growth because of the percentages demanded by BEE legislation.

So, it is very unfortunate and downright nonsense to assert that AfriForum and Solidariteit are ignoring the injustices of the past and the social challenges confronting the country.

What has to be faced is that race-based legislation and regulation has not engineered prosperity. Whilst a fraction of the previously disadvantaged has benefited handsomely through BEE, those benefits have not trickled down to the masses. The reality is that South Africa is much poorer. Eighteen million on social grants is indicative of that. Unemployment of between 35 and 40% is a terrible blot on the ANC’s record.

In that the welfare of the majority is highly dependent on the security of the minorities, it is logical that the strictures of race-based laws be removed or at least relaxed in order to incentivise investment, which will promote growth and employment.

That is what AfriForum and Solidariteit are seeking to bring to international attention. To claim that they are promoting interference in South Africa’s sovereignty is a bit rich when that is what the ANC promoted in the 1980s. Bringing pressure to bear on the government is a valid and democratic right.

Twenty years ago, Tony Leon called for sunset clauses to be applied to race-based legislation. Failure to do so is what is impoverishing South Africa.

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Trump’s renewed focus on tariffs has sparked widespread debates, as the effects of the previous trade wars still ripple through the global economy. The former president is confident that the increased tariffs will strengthen domestic manufacturing by making foreign steel and aluminium less competitive, ultimately leading to the creation of thousands of new jobs. However, the move could also place additional pressure on industries that rely on imported materials, driving up costs and contributing to inflation.

The European Union has already expressed concerns over the economic impact, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen calling for a balanced approach to avoid disrupting global trade. The EU’s response highlights the tension between protecting domestic industries and maintaining stable international trade relations. Meanwhile, some economists argue that the tariffs could backfire, leading to higher consumer prices and potentially straining international partnerships.

Despite these concerns, Trump remains firm in his stance, emphasizing that the long-term benefits for American workers outweigh the immediate economic challenges. He has vowed to continue this path of protectionism, betting that the creation of manufacturing jobs will outweigh the economic downsides, such as the possibility of rising costs for consumers.

As the United States moves forward with these heightened tariffs, the future of international trade remains uncertain. The decision to prioritize domestic job growth over global cooperation could reshape trade dynamics, with potentially far-reaching consequences. While Trump’s stance on tariffs is clear, the broader economic impact, particularly concerning inflation and international relations, will unfold in the coming months. For now, it is clear that the U.S. is doubling down on protectionism in a bid to reinvigorate its manufacturing sector.

The post Trump Escalates 2018 Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum, Betting on Job Creation Despite Inflation Risks appeared first on Alt News Network.

Background on AGOA and Its Importance to South Africa
AGOA, established to strengthen trade between the U.S. and eligible African nations, allows duty-free exports of products such as vehicles and citrus fruits. For South Africa, AGOA has been instrumental in maintaining vital trade flows and supporting its labor-intensive industries.

However, recent developments threaten to disrupt this relationship. Key Republican figures in the incoming Trump administration are advocating for South Africa’s removal from AGOA due to its perceived alignment with adversaries of the U.S., particularly Russia.

The U.S. Perspective
Washington’s discontent stems from South Africa’s military and diplomatic engagements with Russia. This includes joint military exercises, port calls by Russian warships, and training programs for South African officials in Moscow. Furthermore, South Africa’s neutral stance at the United Nations, where it refrained from condemning Russia’s actions in Ukraine, has exacerbated tensions.

A 2023 report by the Center for African Studies at Howard University underscored the requirement for AGOA beneficiaries to align with U.S. security and foreign policy interests. South Africa’s recent actions are viewed as increasingly divergent from these criteria.

Economic Implications for South Africa
Should the U.S. proceed with South Africa’s removal from AGOA, the economic fallout could be severe. Industries heavily reliant on duty-free access to the U.S. market would face increased tariffs, threatening the competitiveness of South African exports. Tens of thousands of jobs, particularly in the automotive and agricultural sectors, are at risk.

Diplomatic Crossroads
South Africa is now at a critical juncture. Reassessing its foreign policy stance could preserve its AGOA benefits and ensure continued economic stability. Conversely, maintaining its current course risks further alienation from the U.S., with potential repercussions extending beyond trade.

As South Africa navigates a complex web of global alliances and economic priorities, the stakes have never been higher. Balancing sovereignty in foreign policy with the need to sustain vital trade relationships will be key in determining the country’s path forward. Will South Africa pivot toward realignment, or will it forge a path independent of AGOA? The coming months will be decisive.

The post South Africa Faces AGOA Threat Amid U.S.-Russia Tensions appeared first on Alt News Network.

While South Africa rejoices over 220 days without blackouts, some of Durban’s poorest face lost income. Sifiso Ntuli (33), part of an informal group directing traffic at busy intersections during power outages, relied on motorists’ coins and notes for daily essentials.

Ntuli, who could make up to R500 daily, says the lights staying on forced him back to scraping by, selling recyclables. Fellow traffic warden Sandile Sibaya, similarly impacted, described the job as a community service, bringing them income and donations from motorists.

As Durban’s jobless population hit 359,000, ongoing issues like poverty, rising crime, and inadequate housing add to the city’s challenges. Local officials continue removing people from public spaces, but experts argue that such measures fail to address the root causes of homelessness and unemployment.

Could this be fueling the surge in crime and infrastructure sabotage?

Source: Daily Maverick

The post From Load Shedding to Job Shedding: Durban’s Informal Traffic Wardens Struggle appeared first on Alt News Network.

For months, Mantashe has floated the idea of lowering fuel prices by up to 30%, largely by removing or reducing the levies and taxes that contribute R6.40 per litre to petrol prices. The levies in question include the general fuel levy (R3.96) and the Road Accident Fund (RAF) levy (R2.18). These charges, according to Mantashe, distort the price of fuel, making it artificially high. Yet, while the idea sounds appealing, it has hit significant opposition within government structures and among economists​ (BusinessTech) (MyBroadband).

Despite these proposals, petrol prices officially climbed in early October 2024, reaching R24.54 per litre—far above the R14 per litre reduction Mantashe suggested was possible​ (BusinessTech). This price hike comes as global oil prices remain elevated and the rand continues to weaken, compounding the financial strain on consumers.

Economists, such as Layton Beard from the Automobile Association and Rand Merchant Bank’s Chief Economist Isaah Mhlanga, argue that while reducing the fuel levy may offer temporary relief, the government would need to find other ways to recoup the roughly R150 billion in annual tax revenue these levies provide​ (BusinessTech). Cutting these taxes without alternative solutions could lead to greater financial instability, prompting even harsher economic measures in the future.

The issue is further complicated by a pattern South Africans are all too familiar with: minor price drops are often followed by significant hikes. For instance, the fuel price fluctuated drastically throughout 2023, offering brief reprieves that never lasted​ (MyBroadband) (The Citizen).

The notion of reducing fuel prices to R14 per litre is likely to remain a political fantasy, as the economic realities of South Africa’s tax system, rising global oil prices, and the weakening rand make such reductions unsustainable. South Africans, already frustrated by erratic fuel price patterns, are left to wonder whether the government’s focus on short-term promises rather than long-term solutions will ever result in meaningful relief.

The post Is Fuel Relief a Mirage? Mantashe’s Promises Fall Flat Amid Rising Prices appeared first on Alt News Network.

In a recent statement, Mampeule emphasised, “Addressing the housing crisis in South Africa requires a multifaceted approach that involves collaboration across government departments and innovative policy solutions.” He argues that without a streamlined process for land rezoning, bureaucratic delays may continue to hinder the realisation of much-needed housing projects.

Mampeule suggests the establishment of a “task force that includes representatives from human settlement and other relevant departments involved in the approval of land rezoning.” He believes that such an interdepartmental collaboration will be crucial in ensuring that policies are aligned and resources are pooled effectively.

Acknowledging the pivotal role of public-private partnerships, Mampeule states, “Public-private partnerships remain a vital component to leverage investment in housing projects. This can include tax incentives for developers who commit to affordable housing.” These partnerships could serve to bridge the funding gap often encountered in housing projects, making space for more affordable options.

In light of these challenges, Mampeule urges civil organisations and NGOs to take proactive measures: “If necessary, we need to initiate court actions to challenge outdated zoning laws or to advocate for land use that supports affordable housing initiatives.” His call to action highlights the need for a robust legal framework to facilitate the development of affordable housing.

Moreover, the entrepreneur stresses the importance of prioritising infrastructure investment. He states, “We must prioritise infrastructure investment in essential areas such as roads, water supply, sewer, electricity, and internet in areas designated for new housing.” By enhancing infrastructure, he argues, these areas will become more attractive for development.

Mampeule also underscores the need to explore various funding options, saying, “It’s important to explore international aid, grants, and innovative financing models like social impact bonds that focus on housing outcomes.” By diversifying funding sources, sustainable solutions to the housing crisis can emerge, supporting both growth and improved living conditions.

By combining these strategies, Rali Mampeule believes South Africa can create a comprehensive approach to tackling the housing crisis. He asserts, “Ultimately, we can improve living conditions and support economic growth.” With his advocacy and insights, Mampeule is paving the way for progressive changes that promise to uplift communities across South Africa.

In conclusion, the call for an amendment of land rezoning processes is not just a bureaucratic concern; it is a vital step towards ensuring that all South Africans have access to safe and affordable housing. As Mampeule aptly puts it, “We need to act urgently; the time for change is now.”

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