News Bulletin of 24 April 2025, 8am

The VAT rate will remain at 15% from 1 May 2025, reversing the planned increase announced in March. This decision follows consultations and could lead to a 75 billion rand revenue shortfall. To address this, the Finance Minister will withdraw current budget bills and propose revised spending plans. New versions of the bills are expected in the coming weeks.

Director of Ferndale-based psychosocial and mental health non-profit organisation, Phola, has won three Women Changing the World Awards at a ceremony in London. Ncube-Mlilo, a world-renowned narrative therapist and psychosocial specialist, secured the People’s Choice Award for Non-Profit and Social Enterprise, as well as the Women in Therapy and Counselling Services Award.She also received the Golden Heart Award, recognizing women who serve the world with love and care. The People’s Choice Award was determined by public voting, while the other two were selected by the Women Changing the World judges.

Hasher Family Wines has been awarded "Winery of the Year" at the prestigious 2025 London Wine Competition. The winning wine Ernest Pinot Noir is a proud achievement for South Africas winemaking on a global stage. The London Wine Competition has established itself as one of the world's most respected wine competitions. What makes this achievement particularly special is that wines aren't judged solely on taste – they're evaluated holistically based on quality, value, and packaging, reflecting the real-world factors that wine lovers consider when choosing their next bottle. SOUND