By Waldo Marcus

South Africans will be watching this week’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) to see if the government’s long-promised structural reforms will finally be fast-tracked to drive much-needed economic growth. They will also be assessing how the president balances a number of tightropes including concerns that some of the GNU partners have with the Expropriation Bill, NHI and the BELA Act, local government failures including a rapidly approaching water crisis, mixed with global tensions.

Past SONAs have focused on a familiar litany of issues: lacklustre economic growth, high unemployment, failing infrastructure, poor service delivery and a regulatory environment which is not conducive to economic growth. There is little expectation that this year will be any different with many of the same platitudes about a commitment to growing the economy likely be dusted off again.

What will be different this time around is that the president will be balancing an ever more complex environment. Positivity around the GNU has waned with policy differences starting to appear. While the energy crisis has been partially addressed, water is a looming catastrophe. South Africa’s relationship with its largest trading partner is in the spotlight with a threat of tariffs from the United States. Then there are diplomatic issues one being how South Africa plans to extricate its peacekeeping troops from Rwanda.

Locally, the president is under pressure to facilitate a more business-friendly environment. The IMF says South Africa has one of the most restrictive business environments globally. It has recommended a raft of reforms to enhance the country’s business environment, bolster governance, improve labour market flexibility, facilitate trade and achieve the country’s climate goals. The IMF calculates that South Africa could add 1.8% to its growth rate if it can get corruption under control, improve the regulatory and business environment and make government more effective.

The country has also come in for criticism for its competition regulations with Stuart Theobald, chair of research-led consultancy firm Krutham pointing out in a recent Business Day editorial that the government does not appreciate how damaging our competition authorities are to foreign investment and growth. He says South Africa urgently needs to revisit the principles and objectives of how competition is regulated. Large property asset sales are already being slowed due to the Competition Commission’s involvement.

Both national, provincial and local governments need to become more efficient and effective. Operation Vulindlela is an initiative spearheaded by the president and the National Treasury to speed up reforms. Local government in the form of municipalities plays an important role in providing communities with essential services including clean water, proper sanitation, reliable electricity, effective waste management and well-maintained roads and municipal infrastructure.

Of concern is the trend of failing municipalities. According to the Auditor-General’s latest local government and audit outcomes report, many municipalities continue to receive poor audit outcomes with only 13% obtaining clean audits. This has triggered a cycle of low collection rates across municipalities as ratepayers demand value for money but fail to see good governance and leadership delivering on promises. Collectively, municipalities owe Eskom more than R109 billion, putting the power utility under pressure.

Property values in poorly run municipalities typically decline. Well-run municipalities that have maintained their public infrastructure, including well-maintained and safe public areas, on the other hand, will ensure that those areas remain sought after by property investors, tenants and businesses.

The president is very aware that the economy pays a heavy price for the high unemployment rate with less personal tax available to be collected, less consumer spending taking place and sluggish GDP growth.

As far as the property industry is concerned, a robust and secure job market is essential for the long-term health of the residential rental market and to keep vacancies low. Stats SA’s employment survey reveals that the unemployment rate increased in the fourth quarter of 2024 to 32.1% from 31.9% in the fourth quarter. The formal sector lost 128 000 jobs with further job losses expected in agriculture, mining and manufacturing in 2025.

A new study by speciality research publisher Taylor & Francis revealed that none of the eight largest metros in South Africa have experienced appreciable employment growth in manufacturing and tradable goods.

An issue that the president will likely touch on in the SONA is reporting on what the government is doing to reduce logistics constraints and ensure improved efficiencies at Transnet. He may also touch on the government’s draft National State Enterprise Bill which proposes the creation of a centralised holding company to oversee state-owned enterprises. Critics of the bill have pointed out that state-owned enterprises such as Eskom and Transnet are already owned by a centralised agency which hasn’t improved their efficiency or competency and that the proposed bill will simply add another layer of bureaucratic bloat.

The annual SONA is often described as bland. In a constrained fiscal space, there is little expectation that this year’s address will deliver anything more exciting. In a perfect world, President Ramaphosa would be announcing a way forward that includes improved service delivery, more efficient local government, a plan to address the water crisis, and the implementation of a less restrictive regulatory environment while at the same time providing assurance to the country’s major trading partners and investors that their needs were also being taken into consideration.

Waldo Marcus is a Director at TPN from MRI Software

Ever noticed how brands bombard you with discounts in November and December? Then January rolls around, and suddenly, it’s full price everywhere—right when your wallet needs some tender loving care the most.

Let’s face it: The first three months of the new year is for financial recovery. School fees are due, rent is knocking, and that December salary seems to have vanished faster than your New Year’s resolutions. But here’s the real question: Why should amazing deals only happen towards the end of the year?

While other brands are busy recovering from their year-end spending, GOtv is here saying, “Hold up—let’s make the new year interesting.” Here’s a deal that makes actual sense when your pocket needs it most: Step Up Once, Get Twice the Entertainment.

Here’s how the offer works: When you subscribe to a package higher than your current one, GOtv automatically upgrades you to the next tier for free. That means if you’re on Jinja, pay for Jolli and enjoy Max; if you’re on Jolli, pay for Max and enjoy Supa; and if you’re on Max, pay for Supa and enjoy Supa Plus.

Why This Deal Is a Game-Changer

Perfect for The New Year Blues: The festivities are over, and everyone’s indoors more, making this the ideal time for quality entertainment.

Family Time Is Back on Track: With the kids back to school and routines resuming, this deal ensures your family has more options and great shows to bond over after a long day.

Smart Financial Choice: Let’s be honest—January is about budgeting smarter, and this offer gives you maximum value for less.

While others are nursing their financial December hangovers, you could be levelling up your home entertainment, making a wise money move, and creating meaningful family moments.

So, what are you waiting for? Step up now to unlock a world of exciting and entertaining programs. To upgrade, subscribe, or reconnect, simply download the MyGOtv app or dial *288#. To catch up and for on-the-go viewing, don’t forget to download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.

Valentine’s Day is almost here, and let’s be real – it’s practically a Hallmark holiday wrapped in chocolates, flowers, and candlelit dinners. No matter how much we try to dodge it, we can’t escape the reminder that love is in the air. And while we’re all wrapped up in celebrating the love we share with partners, friends, and family, there’s one kind of love that often gets shoved in the backseat, and that’s self-love.

It’s the one we often forget to shower with the same enthusiasm. But honestly, if you don’t love yourself first, how can anyone else?

In a world where everyone’s relationship status is practically flashing in neon lights, it’s easy to get sucked into the idea that being in a relationship is the ultimate goal. That finding “the one” is the magic ticket to happiness. We’ve all been sold this story that being with someone else is what completes us, like we’re some sort of puzzle missing that one last piece.

But here’s the plot twist: the real secret to happiness isn’t about someone else – it’s about what’s already inside you.

This Valentine’s Day, why not give yourself a little extra love? Temu is an affordable way to shop for all the goodies that bring your self-care vision to life. Temu is known for offering quality products at competitive prices by cutting out middlemen and their markups. Since its U.S. launch in September 2022, the direct-from-factory marketplace has expanded to 90 markets worldwide, becoming one of the most visited e-commerce sites and a top Apple recommended app of 2024. From candles to journals, and everything in between, you’ll find a wide range of quality products to create a space that celebrates you. After all, self-love isn’t just a feeling – it’s something you can nurture with every choice you make.

The secret ingredient

In a world where the hustle never stops, self-care has gone from a nice-to-have to an absolute must. It’s not just some trendy buzzword. It isn’t selfish, it’s vital.

Ladies, show yourselves some love with a pampering routine. Unwind with a refreshing cooling gel eye mask to soothe tired eyes, followed by a mani-pedi to give those nails some much-needed attention. Treat your feet to a relaxing soak with essential oils, and complete your at-home spa experience with a gift basket filled with delightful treats

Men, remember self-care is for you, too. Prioritise your well-being with a dedicated grooming routine. A grooming essentials kit provides everything you need for a polished look, from trimming tools to skincare must-haves.

It’s about taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical well-being, because how can you pour from an empty cup?

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated

Self-care doesn’t have to mean expensive spa days or hours spent meditating  (though if that’s your thing, go for it!). It’s really about checking in with yourself and taking small steps to nurture your well-being. It’s about being intentional in the way you care for your mind, body, and spirit.

Here are a few simple self-care practices to try this Valentine’s Day (and beyond):

1. Take time for yourself

Whether it’s 10 minutes with a cup of tea or an hour curled up with your favourite book, make sure to carve out time for yourself. Moments of solitude are where you can recharge and reconnect with your inner peace.

2. Move your body

Exercise is a game-changer. It doesn’t have to be a full-on workout session; the key is finding something that feels good to you. Whether it’s a leisurely walk in the park, a calming yoga flow, or even dancing around your living room like nobody’s watching – just move!

3. Set boundaries

One of the most loving things you can do for yourself is set boundaries. Protect your time, energy, and peace by learning to say no when necessary. You don’t have to please everyone. Your well-being is worth protecting.

4. Practice gratitude

Take a few moments each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Gratitude shifts your perspective and helps you focus on the positive in your life.

5. Invest in your growth

Whether it’s diving into a new hobby, enrolling in an online course, or simply taking a moment to reflect on your goals, doing things that light you up and challenge your mind will leave you feeling empowered and oh-so-fulfilled.

And here’s a little pro tip: a self-care daily planner from online marketplaces like Temu is like having your own personal cheerleader, waving pom-poms every time you make time for yourself. It helps you carve out those precious moments, inspires you to be mindful, and gently reminds you that your well-being deserves the spotlight. With a trusty planner by your side, self-care goes from a random afterthought to a fun daily ritual.

Go on, fall in love with yourself

This Valentine’s Day (and beyond), focus on nurturing the most important relationship you’ll ever have: the one with yourself. You are the star of your own life, and you absolutely deserve to put your happiness and well-being front and center.

Self-care is about showing up for yourself, being kind to your soul, and making choices that set you up for long-term happiness. When you do that, not only will you feel amazing, but your relationships  (romantic or otherwise)  will thrive because you’re coming from a place of strength, self-love, and authenticity.

So, go on, give yourself the love you deserve.