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South Africa's government has made progress in resolving an impasse over a new national medical-insurance plan, which critics argue will impact patient and health-care worker rights and sideline the private sector. The National Health Insurance Act, signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa, aims to provide universal access to healthcare through a government-managed fund that purchases services from public and private providers. A compromise has been reached to amend provisions that would have affected private medical-insurance companies, with some members of the coalition government opposing the legislation. Health insurers have responded positively to the news, with Discovery Ltd. seeing a rise in stock value and expressing the importance of private sector collaboration in achieving a sustainable and effective NHI. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa's ruling coalition, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, has managed to overcome internal conflicts by forming a government of national unity with the Democratic Alliance and eight smaller parties. While disagreements persist on issues like healthcare, land expropriation, and education, recent compromises have been made, such as dropping a provision in a health-insurance law that threatened private medical-insurance companies. The coalition aims to prioritize economic growth and job creation, with the DA playing a key role in the government to prevent alliances with populist groups. Despite challenges, the coalition is working well, as indicated by positive feedback from ministers and analysts. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa's government has made progress in resolving a dispute over a new national health insurance plan, which critics argue could impact patient rights and the private sector. President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the National Health Insurance Act shortly before the recent elections, where the African National Congress lost its majority. The legislation aims to provide universal access to healthcare through a government-managed fund, but some coalition members oppose it, leading to potential revisions to the law. The public healthcare system currently serves 84% of the population, while the remaining 16% with private insurance have access to high-quality care. [Extracted from the article]

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has been making decisions independently, despite his party losing its parliamentary majority. This has caused tension within the ruling coalition, particularly with the Democratic Alliance, over policies such as land expropriation and national health insurance. While the DA has raised concerns and called for a reset in the relationship, Ramaphosa remains committed to implementing his party's agenda. The potential withdrawal of the DA from the coalition could have significant economic implications, as seen in the recent market reactions to the rising political tensions. [Extracted from the article]

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed a new law that allows the state to expropriate land for public interest purposes, with equitable compensation. The Expropriation Act replaces old legislation and aims to promote inclusivity and access to natural resources. The African National Congress proposed constitutional changes in 2017 to address land ownership disparities, but later opted for legislative measures after facing opposition. The Democratic Alliance has expressed opposition to the law and plans to challenge it. [Extracted from the article]

The sentiment among South African manufacturers declined for a second consecutive month in December due to weak domestic demand, falling export sales, and logistical challenges. The Absa Group Ltd.'s purchasing managers' index dropped to 46.2 from 48.1 in November, with business activity and new-sales orders also decreasing. Despite these challenges, there is optimism for a recovery in 2025, as reflected in the index on expected business conditions in six months. [Extracted from the article]

Full praise to Annette Dittert for exposing our shameless huckster of a Prime Minister ('The politics of lies', 23 July). Over the years the NS has catalogued in myriad insightful [...]

South Africa's government is implementing a plan to offer early retirement to senior civil servants in an effort to reduce its wage bill. The National Treasury has allocated 11 billion rand over the next two fiscal years to fund the program, which aims to cut costs while retaining critical skills and bringing in younger talent. This move is seen as crucial for the government to meet its goals of reducing state debt and the fiscal deficit, as personnel costs currently account for a significant portion of total government expenditure. [Extracted from the article]

The 2024 medium-term budget policy statement released by South Africa's Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana forecasts a consolidated budget shortfall of 5% of GDP for the current fiscal year, with projections for narrowing deficits in the following years. The debt trajectory is expected to worsen due to a tax revenue shortfall, with gross debt peaking at 75.5% of GDP in 2025-26. Economic growth is anticipated to average 1.8% over the next three years, with increased infrastructure investment contributing to a more stable outlook. Additional spending allocations include funding for civil servant early retirement, toll road project debts, and a peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa has announced significant changes to its work permit regulations in an effort to attract more professionals and boost its tourism industry. The new rules, which include a points-based system for work visas, aim to make the process faster and easier for applicants with critical or scarce skills, a job offer, and proficiency in one of the country's official languages. Additionally, individuals earning at least 650,796 rand ($36,894) per year will be eligible for general work visas valid for up to five years. The reforms are expected to address concerns from foreign-owned companies about the country's complex permitting system and the lack of skilled workers. [Extracted from the article]

Pravin Gordhan, a prominent figure in South African politics, has passed away at the age of 75 after battling cancer. Gordhan was known for his anti-apartheid activism and his role in transforming the South African Revenue Service into a world-class organization. He served as finance minister under President Jacob Zuma, but their relationship was strained, with Zuma repeatedly undermining Gordhan's authority. Despite facing fraud charges, Gordhan received widespread support from civil-rights groups and ANC leaders. After retiring from politics, Gordhan kept a low profile. [Extracted from the article]

The leader of South Africa's Democratic Alliance (DA) party, John Steenhuisen, downplayed the possibility of the party leaving the ruling alliance if President Cyril Ramaphosa approves a controversial new education law. Steenhuisen stated that the DA will not exit the government unless it is detrimental to the economy or violates the constitution. The DA, which holds 22% of the vote, wants its priorities implemented but is open to compromise. The unraveling of the ruling alliance could create political uncertainty and concern investors. The DA may resort to court action if a compromise on the education bill cannot be reached. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa's new 10-party coalition government is aiming to increase agricultural exports to China in order to strengthen ties with the country, boost the economy, and address high unemployment rates. The Agriculture Minister, John Steenhuisen, stated that they are working to ensure that South African agricultural products meet China's phytosanitary and biosecurity requirements. Currently, South Africa already exports citrus and beef to China and is looking to expand its range of goods. China has become South Africa's largest trading partner, surpassing the European Union, and both countries are part of the BRICS bloc. Steenhuisen believes that the relationship with China will benefit South Africa. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa's ruling coalition, consisting of 10 parties, is expected to remain intact despite their differences because there are no other viable alternatives to govern the country, according to Helen Zille, the chairwoman of the Democratic Alliance. The coalition was formed after the African National Congress lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years. The new government has prioritized economic growth to address the high unemployment rate and has seen positive responses from the currency and stock markets. The Democratic Alliance, although making compromises, aims to distinguish itself and ensure its electoral support remains strong. [Extracted from the article]

Israel's parliament has adjourned for a three-month recess, providing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with a temporary respite from criticism over the war in Gaza, calls for early elections, and a recent Hezbollah attack. World leaders are calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, with demands for the release of Palestinian prisoners and hostages. Netanyahu has taken a hard-line stance, stating that the war will continue until Hamas is defeated. There is growing public pressure within Israel for Netanyahu to resign, but it is unlikely that early elections or a change in government will occur before the parliamentary break ends in October. [Extracted from the article]

Israel's parliament has adjourned for a three-month recess, providing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with some respite amidst criticism over the war in Gaza, calls for early elections, and a deadly Hezbollah attack. World leaders are calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, with demands for the release of hostages. Netanyahu has taken a hard-line stance, stating that the war will continue until Hamas is defeated. There is growing public pressure for Netanyahu to resign, but organizing early elections would be difficult while parliament is in recess. [Extracted from the article]

Hundreds of thousands of people in Israel, Lebanon, and Gaza have been displaced and are living in temporary accommodations due to the conflicts between Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah. The Israeli government is providing food and accommodation for evacuees, but the living conditions are challenging. The possibility of an all-out conflict between Israel and Hezbollah is a concern, as it could have devastating consequences for both countries. The number of people housed in hotels has decreased, but the hotel industry is still struggling due to the war's impact on tourism. In Lebanon, the government is unable to provide support to the displaced due to the country's economic crisis. In Gaza, the situation is dire, with a majority of the population lacking access to sufficient shelter, food, medical services, and clean water. The fighting in Gaza has shown some signs of slowing down, but civilians are still being ordered to leave certain areas for military operations. The displacement has had a significant impact on individuals' lives, including disrupted education and limited access to basic necessities. [Extracted from the article]

Hundreds of thousands of people in Israel, Lebanon, and Gaza have been displaced and their lives upended since Hamas-led militants invaded southern Israel in October. Israel's retaliatory actions and ongoing assault have resulted in thousands of deaths in Gaza, while Lebanon-based Hezbollah has also launched attacks on northern Israel. The domestic pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to allow evacuees to return home has raised concerns about the potential for a devastating conflict. The displaced individuals face challenges in finding shelter, food, medical services, and clean water, with many homes damaged or destroyed. The situation is particularly dire in Gaza, where the majority of the population lacks access to basic necessities. [Extracted from the article]

The South African rand experienced a significant drop in value against other emerging-market currencies following a report by local media outlet IOL. The report stated that the African National Congress (ANC) had recommended the establishment of a government of national unity. The ANC's national working committee held discussions on the matter, with a media briefing scheduled for later. The report, which mentioned collaboration with other parties, could not be independently verified. [Extracted from the article]

The leader of South Africa's main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), expressed optimism about the possibility of forming a coalition government with the African National Congress (ANC), despite their differences. The ANC lost its parliamentary majority in the recent elections, leaving the country in a state of political uncertainty. Many investors are hopeful that a coalition between the DA and ANC would bring stability to the country. However, there are obstacles to such a partnership, including disagreements over key policies. The DA is open to talks with the ANC, but will not work with certain leftist parties. The DA is also willing to support the ANC from outside the government if necessary. [Extracted from the article]

Investors in South Africa are facing uncertainty in the financial markets following elections that did not produce a clear winner. The African National Congress (ANC) fell short of a parliamentary majority for the first time in three decades, with its supporters expressing dissatisfaction with poverty, unemployment, and crime. The centrist Democratic Alliance, former President Jacob Zuma's new uMkhonto weSizwe Party, and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters all gained significant support. The possibility of these parties joining the government and advocating for populist policies is impacting the country's currency and debt. A coalition with the Democratic Alliance would be the most favorable outcome for the markets, but negotiations are expected to be challenging. The uncertainty has caused the rand to weaken and the cost of insuring the nation's debt to rise. The outcome of the elections and subsequent coalition talks will have significant implications for South Africa's future. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa's recent elections have left investors uncertain about the future of the country's financial markets. The African National Congress (ANC) did not secure a parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years, with the party winning 40.2% of the votes. Ongoing coalition talks make the outcome highly uncertain, and the possibility of parties favoring increased state spending and nationalization of key industries joining the government is causing concern among investors. The rand has already slumped against the dollar, and the cost of insuring the nation's debt has risen. The most market-positive outcome would be a coalition with the centrist Democratic Alliance, but reaching an agreement will be challenging and could strain ANC cohesion. The leaders of the main parties have yet to begin negotiating with each other, and it may take several days before any agreement is reached. The ANC's internal dynamics will also play a significant role in determining the outcome. Even if a power-sharing accord is agreed upon, there is no guarantee it will hold, as seen in the instability at the municipal level. Additionally, former President Jacob Zuma's allegations of inconsistencies in the vote count and the possibility of a recount further add to concerns about stability. [Extracted from the article]

The African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa is facing a significant loss of support in the recent election, potentially losing its majority for the first time since apartheid ended. The ANC may have to form a coalition government with one of its main rivals, such as the Economic Freedom Fighters or the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, which has caused concern in financial markets. Alternatively, the ANC could partner with the business-friendly Democratic Alliance, but their adversarial relationship may complicate this option. The outcome of the coalition negotiations will have implications for the markets and the country's policies. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa is heading into its closest election in the post-apartheid era, with the African National Congress (ANC) facing the possibility of losing its parliamentary majority for the first time. The ANC's support has declined due to high unemployment, crime rates, and the collapse of government services. The party may still retain power by forming alliances with smaller parties, excluding its main rivals. Financial markets are optimistic that economic policy will remain intact, and the country has seen positive sentiment with the rand gaining against the dollar. The election results are expected to be announced over the weekend. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa is holding an election that could potentially end the African National Congress's (ANC) three-decade-long dominance. The ANC's support has declined in recent years due to high unemployment, crime rates, and government service failures. While the ANC is expected to win more than 45% of the vote, it may need to form an alliance with smaller parties to retain power. The financial markets are optimistic about the country's economic policy and stability. President Cyril Ramaphosa is popular but faces competition from other party leaders. Voter turnout is uncertain, and there are concerns about potential election unrest. [Extracted from the article]

The mayor of Cape Town, South Africa's second-largest city, has warned of potential negative consequences if populist parties are included in a coalition government after the upcoming election. Opinion polls suggest that the ruling African National Congress (ANC) will lose its parliamentary majority and may need to form alliances with smaller parties to retain power. The business-friendly Democratic Alliance (DA) is aiming to secure a significant share of the vote to have more bargaining power in post-election negotiations. The mayor expressed concern about the possibility of a far-left government and suggested efforts should be made to prevent it. The leader of the DA has indicated a potential tie-up with the ANC to avoid the scenario of the far-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) being in government. However, the leader of the small GOOD party downplayed the likelihood of no party winning the election outright. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa is heading into national elections in which an outright winner is not apparent. Opinion polls show that the ruling African National Congress (ANC) risks losing its majority and may have to form a coalition government. The key players in the election include President Cyril Ramaphosa of the ANC, John Steenhuisen of the Democratic Alliance, Julius Malema of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Velenkosini Hlabisa of the Inkatha Freedom Party, and former president Jacob Zuma of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party. Each party has different promises and policies, addressing issues such as job creation, poverty reduction, healthcare, and energy. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa is strategically positioning itself as a leading voice of the Global South by playing all sides in foreign policy. President Cyril Ramaphosa's efforts to secure vaccines for Africa, broker an end to Russia's war in Ukraine, and bring a genocide case against Israel at the International Criminal Court have enhanced South Africa's international profile. While the country maintains a non-aligned position, its close ties with China, refusal to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and anti-Israel stance have raised concerns in the US and EU. However, South Africa's growing international sway has not yet resulted in repercussions due to its importance as an export destination and source of minerals. [Extracted from the article]

South Africa has canceled the sale of a majority stake in its national airline, South African Airways (SAA), after three years of negotiations. The government had planned to sell 51% of SAA to the Takatso group, but the talks fell through due to disagreements over value and terms. The decision means that SAA will remain 100% state-owned, and the government believes the airline can sustain itself without further financial assistance from the state. The collapse of the deal is a setback for the government's efforts to privatize state entities and manage state debt. [Extracted from the article]