Experts

Groundbreaking study gives frogs and reptiles indigenous names

MOIRA MULLER — Thu, 29 May 2025 10:16:52 +0000

Groundbreaking study gives frogs and reptiles indigenous names

MOIRA MULLER Thu, 05/29/2025 - 12:16

Researchers have created a comprehensive list of indigenous names for frogs and reptiles in order to promote inclusive conservation
People are far more likely to protect what they can name
South Africa’s indigenous languages have long been marginalised in science
The inclusion of indigenous names in biodiversity literature is not only good science, but also democratic

Frogs, snakes and lizards rarely take centre stage in the worlds of language policy and biodiversity, but then again, South Africa is no ordinary place. A new study published in the African Journal of Herpetology offers a compelling insight into how indigenous knowledge and scientific taxonomy can coexist to make conservation truly inclusive and effective.

The study, titled Naming South African frogs and reptiles in nine indigenous languages, is a multilingual feat led by Dr Fortunate Phaka of the North-West University (NWU), alongside collaborators from Belgium and across South Africa. It addresses a significant yet overlooked issue in South African science: the near-total absence of frogs and reptiles named in the country's nine official indigenous languages.

The problem is more than linguistic. Scientific names, which are often in Latin or Greek, are intended to be consistent across the globe, but they are largely incomprehensible to the local communities who live among the species and who are often central to their conservation. This disconnect can be more than a minor inconvenience, it can result in miscommunication, poor policy implementation, and a general lack of public engagement with biodiversity efforts.

Phaka's research is groundbreaking in both scope and intent. Using online surveys, social media outreach and field interviews, the team compiled a list of over 4 800 indigenous names for all 543 species of frogs and reptiles officially recognised in South Africa, extending the names originally used to group multiple species together. These names span the country’s linguistic diversity and include languages such as isiZulu, Xitsonga, isiNdebele and Tshivenda. Where no specific name for a species existed, the researchers created new names based on familiar descriptive traits, as scientists do with newly discovered organisms.

Why does this matter? Firstly, it makes conservation more accessible. People are far more likely to protect things they can name, especially if those names are rooted in their own language and cultural understanding. For example, a Xitsonga speaker may not relate to the scientific name Ptychadena anchietae, but the name “Mabhruku”, inspired by the frog’s long legs and springy leap, may inspire a different kind of curiosity and care.

Moreover, the research reveals that indigenous naming systems often reflect an intuitive ecological logic. For instance, the Xhosa and Zulu words Ixoxo and Isele group frogs based on the texture of their skin. While not strictly scientific, this classification still captures a meaningful distinction. This folk taxonomy often aligns with scientific classifications at higher taxonomic levels (family or genus), though rarely at the species level. The mismatch, or “under-differentiation”, as the authors describe it, is not due to a lack of insight, but rather reflects the observational priorities of communities whose engagement with these animals is shaped by cultural, utilitarian or ecological familiarity.

The implications stretch beyond taxonomy into social justice and language policy. South Africa’s indigenous languages have long been marginalised in science, a space still dominated by English and, to a lesser extent, Afrikaans. As Phaka argues, including indigenous names in biodiversity literature is not only good science, but also democratic. It enables speakers of these languages to engage with conservation as informed contributors rather than passive recipients. In short, it is a step towards epistemic equity.

The fact that this project emerged from a collaboration between the North-West University and international institutions such as Hasselt University speaks to the global relevance of local knowledge. While the frogs and reptiles are mostly endemic to South Africa, the model of integrating folk and formal taxonomies and embedding local languages in scientific discourse is exportable. Countries ranging from Brazil to Pakistan have grappled with similar issues, and Phaka’s work could serve as a valuable template.

There is still work to be done. Why do some species have names, while others don’t? What role do cultural taboos, visibility, and perceived usefulness play in shaping folk taxonomy? These are questions for future research. In the meantime, however, the simple act of naming a frog, lizard or snake in a language that has endured generations is a profound act of cultural and scientific synthesis.

Ultimately, it turns out that what you call a frog does matter. Especially when that name could be the key to saving the species.

• Dr Fortunate Phaka can be contacted at 071 463 6065 and mafetap@gmail.com.

In the spotlight: Prof Ian Rothmann

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 23 May 2025 09:53:06 +0000

In the spotlight: Prof Ian Rothmann

by Belinda Bantham

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/23/2025 - 11:53

"My greatest hope is that my contributions create ripple effects – opening doors for others, laying foundations for future breakthroughs, and helping shape a more just and resilient world for future generations."

These are the words of Prof Ian Rothmann, director of the North-West University's (NWU's) Optentia research entity, and newly rated B1 researcher by the National Research Foundation (NRF). This rating is reserved for internationally recognised researchers for the quality and impact of their work, and it signals that Prof Rothmann's scholarship is not only current but has also made a lasting contribution to his field.

"An NRF rating reminds you of the value of your work, but it also makes you reflect on your purpose," he says.

For Prof Rothmann, however, the true reward of academic life lies in building the capacity of others and contributing to change.

"I've come to realise that the heart of good research is about empowering others – it's not just about publishing papers, but also about investing in the capabilities of researchers and creating environments where people can flourish."

Reflecting on his tenure as the leader of Optentia, Prof Rothmann highlights the deeply formative experience of guiding an interdisciplinary entity. "My involvement with Optentia has greatly influenced me as a person and researcher," he explains. "Most academics are trained in discipline-related thinking, so to work in an interdisciplinary entity like ours takes a certain kind of maturity. You must learn to appreciate perspectives from various disciplines – and that's not always easy."

He recalls the initial difficulty of explaining Optentia's work to international colleagues. "I knew my field, but I didn't know theirs. Over time, I developed the skills and understanding to represent our interdisciplinary work more confidently. That's the beauty of Optentia – it teaches you that South Africa's major challenges, like poverty, inequality, and unemployment, cannot be tackled from a single disciplinary viewpoint. You have to take hands across disciplines."

He adds: "I hope my efforts have helped strengthen the NWU's reputation as a hub of research excellence that is deeply engaged with the pressing challenges of our time."

Prof Rothmann firmly believes that the foundation of excellent research lies in empowering people. "When we established the entity, we didn't say: 'Let's chase research articles.' We said: 'Let's invest in people and help them become as competent as possible.'"

This vision has guided Optentia's consistent focus on mentoring, skills development, and community-building among researchers. "Being a good researcher isn’t just about reading and writing. You need to be effective in how you do research – and that includes mastering statistical methods and understanding the broader context in which people live and work.”

Optentia is now recognised as a leader in research methodology and statistical training in South Africa. From hosting the country’s first “Stats Camp” in 2019 to recently convening a writing retreat attended by nearly 70 researchers – including 40 PhD students – the entity exemplifies how investing in people yields sustainable research impact.

“Optentia helps you to value the right things, enables you, and helps you achieve. Those three things are crucial for any research environment,” says Prof Rothmann.

Prof Rothmann draws strength from his personal values and relationships. “My friends and family are incredibly important to me,” he shares. “And I love visiting Namibia, where I was born – just being in nature is so revitalising.”

He also cherishes the quiet early hours of the morning. “Around 03:00 or 04:00 am is my favourite time. That’s when I have quiet time to read and immerse myself in academic books I otherwise wouldn’t have time for. It’s incredibly energising.”

Advice for the next generation

To emerging academics, Prof Rothmann offers this advice: “Firstly, get a mentor. There are people who are willing to support you – find them. Secondly, reflect on your purpose. Why are you here as an academic? Define your research vision in five words, but be open to adapting it over time. Life changes, and so should your vision.”

He also highlights the importance of being enabled and supported. “You need to value your work, be enabled to do it, and actually achieve. Sometimes people have the first two, but they don’t publish. That’s where mentorship becomes key – someone to guide you in refining your goals and managing your expectations.”

Looking ahead, Prof Rothmann is driven by a powerful institutional vision: “My vision for the NWU is to continue nurturing collaborative, innovative and socially relevant research that amplifies its impact both locally and globally.”

Much of his recent work explores how to enhance employability in a rapidly evolving world of work. “I want to understand how people can flourish – not only at work but in life,” he explains. “But in a country like South Africa, where 60% of young people are unemployed, we can’t only ask how people flourish at work. We must ask: how do we make people employable?”

His long-term ambition is to continue working at the intersection of employability, sustainability, and resilience. “With the rise of AI and technology, many jobs are under threat. We need to find ways to ensure people remain employable, despite rapid changes. That’s how we escape the trap of poverty, inequality and uncertainty.”

Prof Ian Rothmann

Unemployment level raises red flag about weak growth performance

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 14 May 2025 06:43:12 +0000

Unemployment level raises red flag about weak growth performance BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 05/14/2025 - 08:43

The 1% rise in the unemployment level in the first quarter of 2025 raises another red flag about South Africa’s weak growth performance.

Prof Raymond Parsons, economist from the North-West University (NWU) Business School, says with the gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecasts for 2025 having been progressively reduced by various institutions and economists to about 1,5% and below, it is not unexpected that this should now be reflected in higher unemployment levels.

“The overall total unemployment level is now where it was a year ago and youth unemployment in particular remains of an unacceptable magnitude.”

Prof Parsons says the latest rise in unemployment again confirms that economic growth in South Africa has been too low for too long.

“There is no magic wand to create jobs overnight, as the disappointing unemployment picture is the cumulative outcome of seasonal, cyclical and structural factors. However, the deteriorating employment outlook nonetheless reinforces once more the fact that the third Budget on 21 May must be a growth-driven one.”

According to Prof Parsons, the Budget needs to create a policy environment that promotes economic expansion and boosts investor confidence.

He says the Budget must be dedicated to policies and projects that demonstrably support the commitment of the Government of National Unity to at least 3% GDP job-rich growth in the medium term.

Predicted growth not good enough for South Africa

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 10:00:42 +0000

Predicted growth not good enough for South Africa BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 04/23/2025 - 12:00

The bad news from the latest assessment by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) of the impact of trade wars and policy uncertainty on the world economy is not unexpected. It nonetheless highlights the extent of the economic damage anticipated by recent unbridled United States of America (US) protectionism and its wider consequences.

In commenting on the latest update by the IMF on the world economic outlook, Prof Raymond Parsons, economist from the North-West University (NWU) Business School, says in cutting its 2025 global growth forecast from 3,3% to 2,8%, the IMF has warned that it nonetheless hides big variations across countries and is universally negative.

“While a global recession is unlikely, the IMF expects both emerging markets and developed economies to experience much slower growth, including the two biggest ones, namely, the US and China. The world economy is therefore clearly now less supportive of domestic economic growth. Moreover, the IMF has two forecasts of particular significance for South Africa’s growth prospects.”

Prof Parsons says the IMF has reduced South Africa’s 2025 gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast from 1,5% to 1%, but is also projecting South Africa reaching a growth rate of only 1,8% by 2030.

“This is simply not good enough for South Africa, given its socioeconomic challenges. It falls far short of the target of the Government of National Unity (GNU) of wanting 3% inclusive growth in the medium term. High investment and job-rich growth require confidence in the future. There needs to be a renewed emphasis on accelerating key structural reforms.”

Prof Parsons says a strategic pivot in growth policy is urgently required to create the extra economic buffers and resilience needed to decisively deal with external shocks, and to ensure that tailwinds outweigh headwinds in 2025.

Prof Tyobeka reappointed as member of South African Council for the Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

MARELIZE SANTANA — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:56:44 +0000

Prof Tyobeka reappointed as member of South African Council for the Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction MARELIZE SANTANA Tue, 04/01/2025 - 13:56

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) principal and vice-chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, has been reappointed as a member of the South African Council for the Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction for a period of five years from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2030.

This announcement was made by Mr Mpho Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, on 31 March 2025.

The university congratulates Prof Tyobeka on his reappointment, and reiterate Mr Tau's sentiment: "I wish you well in your reappointment and trust that you will continue making a valuable contribution towards the work of the Council and fulfilling its mandate."

NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka.

Back to the future from North Carolina State University

MOIRA MULLER — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:41:21 +0000

Back to the future from North Carolina State University

by Bertie Jacobs

MOIRA MULLER Fri, 03/28/2025 - 15:41

There is a small brick building on Watauga Club Drive here in Raleigh, North Carolina. There is something different about it, something that distinguishes it from the other academic structures on the campus of the North Carolina State University (NCSU). It is old, very old. Primrose Hall was originally opened in 1896 and now houses the Office of Global Engagement.

Our delegation from the North-West University (NWU) was there on a very crisp Thursday morning to meet with Dr Amy Conger, vice provost for Global Engagement. “Watauga” is a Native American word that means “beautiful water” or “whispering water”. The significance of this was not lost on me. Is that not what global engagement is all about?

Water enriches, and it allows for growth. Water transforms. Through our internationalisation drive, the NWU is following a stream of global engagements that keep us afloat and competitive in a fast-changing world. And we are hearing the “whispers” of expertise from our colleagues across the globe. They are music to our eager ears.

The day before, we were privy to an orchestra of information as we met with Dr Chris Frey, associate dean for Research and Infrastructure at the College of Engineering; Dr Mark Schmidt, associate vice-chancellor for Partnerships at the Office of Partnerships; as well as Dr Michelle Hayford and Dr Stuart Benkert from the Department of Performing Arts and Technology. Our day concluded with a very illuminating discussion with Dr Paola Sztajn, dean of the College of Education. There are so many potential collaborative projects.

Thursday’s encore saw us meet with Dr Bayram Suha Aksoy from the Minerals Research Laboratory, Chanelle Gobena McArthur and David McNeill from the Global Training Initiative, and Dr Igor Bolotnov and his colleagues from the Department of Nuclear Engineering.

On Friday, we were hosted by Dr Kathryn Boys from the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics before we had a tour of the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics.

We have a lot to think about and even more to digest. It is our responsibility to take what we have learned and to implement it. We will do that together.

I want to leave you with one last thought. The NCSU’s mascot is a wolf, and their sports teams are called the Wolfpack. It is also what their supporters call themselves. You can see the “wolf” emblem plastered everywhere in this enterprising city, from buildings to buses. Their motto is: “Strength in the pack’”.

Do you know what a group of eagles is called? It is called a “soar”. As impressive as a pack of wolves is, imagine how inspiring a soar of NWU Eagles can be!

Now, we are heading back home to our loved ones. Equipped with new knowledge and a clearer vision, we are going back to where a new future for our NWU awaits.

Warm regards
Prof Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka
Principal and Vice-Chancellor

The fragile state of South Africa’s political and economic landscape: What to do?

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 13:09:45 +0000

The fragile state of South Africa’s political and economic landscape: What to do?

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 03/06/2025 - 15:09

Uncertainty springs eternal in the South African political landscape, or so it would seem. The Government of National Unity (GNU) has yet to find its feet, and cohesion has not been one of its hallmarks.

According to Professor Kedibone Phago, Director of the School for Government Studies at the North-West University (NWU), there is much to be done if the country is to be defined by its successes rather than its failures.

The state of SOEs: A broken backbone

State-owned enterprises are the backbone of the South African economy, but that backbone is fractured. Nowhere is this more evident than at Transnet, which suffered severe damage from the era of state capture under former President Jacob Zuma.

“There is no doubt that the government needs to focus on reviving SOEs to fix the economy,” says Phago. He stresses that one of the first steps should be a comprehensive skills audit, followed by a clear roadmap for skills development.

“A structured partnership with universities and TVET colleges is crucial for medium- to long-term planning. This would ensure a steady pipeline of technical expertise feeding into both SOEs and local government structures.” Phago also suggests that collaborations should extend to the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA).

Will the GNU be a short-lived alliance?

How long will the GNU last? That remains the burning question. The current unity government, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, was a necessary response to the ANC’s failure to secure an outright majority in the last elections.

“It is in South Africa’s best interest for the GNU to hold until the next elections,” says Phago. “With Ramaphosa at the helm, there’s a chance that the GNU could endure, but the real threat lies within the ANC itself.”

The party’s elective conference, expected before 2029, could be a turning point. If Ramaphosa decides not to run for a third term as ANC president, history suggests that internal party battles could bring his tenure to a premature end. “We have seen this before. Both Thabo Mbeki and Jacob Zuma were ousted due to ANC leadership struggles,” Phago notes. Leftist opposition forces, particularly the EFF and MK parties, are watching closely, waiting for an opportunity to unseat him.

What kind of governance does South Africa need?

With a diverse population and a young, vibrant workforce, South Africa needs pragmatic governance. However, the ideological tug-of-war between left-wing and centrist policies continues to shape the country’s political landscape.

“A pragmatic approach must be entrenched,” Phago argues. “The left may call it neoliberalism, but the reality is that South Africa has to align itself with global financial systems such as the World Bank and the IMF.”

The challenge, he says, is that leftist rhetoric in South Africa often lacks substance. “To sustain social grants, free education, and other welfare programmes, the government needs to broaden its tax base. Without this, left-wing policies become little more than empty slogans.” Corruption scandals such as the Arms Deal, Travelgate and State Capture have further exposed the hypocrisy of some so-called progressive leaders.

The ANC’s prospects for 2029

With declining support, the ANC faces an uphill battle ahead of the 2029 elections. However, Phago sees some signs of stabilisation. “Early polls suggest that both the ANC and the DA have maintained their support base since the formation of the GNU.”

The 2026 local government elections will be a crucial test. “The black middle class in urban centres will be a key demographic to watch,” he notes. In addition, the ANC’s elective conference in 2026 will provide insights into the party’s internal power struggles.

The rise and fall of opposition parties

The MK Party, founded by Zuma loyalists, is still in its infancy and its leadership instability threatens its future. “The rift between its secretary general and Duduzile Zuma could determine whether the MKP retains its 14% support base,” Phago predicts. Without internal cohesion, the party’s future is uncertain.

Meanwhile, the EFF appears to be in decline. “The departure of Floyd Shivambu and Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has left a significant leadership vacuum,” Phago observes. “So far, Julius Malema has not demonstrated a clear strategy to keep the party viable.”

The DA, on the other hand, has adopted a two-pronged strategy within the GNU. “By staying in government while simultaneously challenging policies in the courts, the DA seeks to retain white voters who might drift to the Freedom Front Plus, while also appealing to the black middle class,” Phago explains. If the ANC elects a controversial or corruption-tainted leadership at its next conference, the DA could gain further traction among urban voters.

The emergence of a centrist force?

Given South Africa’s current political fragmentation, could a centrist force emerge as a viable alternative? Phago believes such forces are already visible within the GNU, but their survival is uncertain.

“The challenge is to sustain them,” he warns. “Paul Mashatile, the current deputy president of the ANC, does not represent this centrist shift. Until we see who succeeds Ramaphosa, it’s too early to say whether a pragmatic governance model will take hold.”

For now, the so-called progressive forces remain weak and divided. “If they were a real threat, we would have seen them take control of a municipality in Gauteng or KwaZulu-Natal by now,” says Phago.

The road ahead

South Africa’s political and economic landscape remains volatile. The survival of the GNU depends on Ramaphosa’s leadership, while the ANC’s ability to reverse its declining fortunes will be tested in the coming years. As Phago puts it: “The next few years will determine whether South Africa moves towards pragmatic governance or remains mired in ideological battles that do little to address its pressing economic challenges.”

Professor Kedibone Phago

South Africa is at a crossroads: Time to restore faith

MOIRA MULLER — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 08:01:34 +0000

South Africa is at a crossroads: Time to restore faith

by Bertie Jacobs

MOIRA MULLER Wed, 03/05/2025 - 10:01

South Africa is at a breaking point. The political landscape is shifting, economic pressures are mounting, and trust in government is waning. Dr Sysman Motloung, a political analyst and academic at North-West University (NWU), has spent years studying the nation’s fractures: how power is won, wielded, and too often squandered. His research spans electoral behaviour, constitutionalism, and the politics of water, an issue he argues is central to the country’s long-term stability. In a candid and unflinching conversation, Dr Motloung dissects the nation’s biggest challenges, from coalition politics to economic distress, and presents a stark choice: reform or decline.

The nature of power and politics

Dr Motloung’s research is deeply rooted in interpretive qualitative methods, focusing on electoral behaviour and political development. His latest work has explored topics as diverse as the fragile state of constitutionalism, the impact of the 2024 elections on women in politics, and the often fraught relationship between Members of Parliament and their constituencies.

His most recent publication in 2025 explores the impact of a lack of mentorship on the career progression of young black women, while his latest studies examine the politics of water in South Africa – an area he believes is critical to the country’s long-term stability.

“At the heart of my research is the fusion of classical political theory with contemporary policy issues,” he explains. “Understanding how governance works - or doesn’t work - is central to ensuring that democratic institutions serve the people.”

The challenges of 2025: Democracy under pressure

According to Dr Motloung, the most immediate political and economic challenge facing South Africa is the consolidation of its democracy in an era of coalition governance. The country’s political landscape is shifting, with weakened opposition parties and a polarised civil society. The fragmentation has stifled efforts at national unity, he argues, and created space for interest groups such as AfriForum to push “parochial agendas.”

Perhaps even more concerning is the growing loss of trust in government. “People no longer believe in the political process,” he says. “Declining voter turnout is a symptom of deeper discontent. If government performance does not improve and politicians cannot demonstrate that they are working in the public interest, the erosion of trust will accelerate.”

Beyond politics, economic distress is exacerbating instability. The soaring cost of living has placed even middle-class households under strain. “Service backlogs are growing because many residents cannot afford municipal charges. This forces people to seek private alternatives, doubling their financial burden.”

And then there is corruption, an entrenched force that, Dr Motloung notes, breeds a “society of contempt.” From government tenders subverted for personal gain to the theft of electricity and water, these systemic failures weaken state legitimacy. “Even residents who can afford municipal rates are refusing to pay,” he observes, citing ethical decay as a major societal crisis.

South Africa’s place in the world: A balancing act

On the global stage, South Africa faces an increasingly polarised geopolitical environment. Dr Motloung believes the country must exercise assertive non-alignment while safeguarding its sovereignty. “BRICS offers South Africa a vital platform to challenge arrogant foreign policy practices,” he says. But while the country must maintain its partnerships, it cannot afford to neglect African geopolitics.

“South Africa must take its role on the continent seriously,” he argues. “As a leading African nation, it should actively promote development across the region, fostering a united and prosperous continent.”

The fragile social fabric

Dr Motloung views social instability as one of South Africa’s greatest threats. With unemployment soaring, service delivery protests on the rise, and crime syndicates tightening their grip on communities, the government faces an uphill battle. “The murder of school principals, extortion rackets in businesses – these are symptoms of a deeper governance failure,” he warns.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach. Strengthening law enforcement is crucial to curbing crime and corruption, while enhanced border security can help regulate economic migration. Ensuring that township residents who can afford municipal rates pay them is equally important, alongside scrutinising the indigent register to ensure social assistance reaches those who truly need it. By tackling these issues systematically, South Africa can begin to restore trust in governance and build a more stable society.

The road to 2035: A blueprint for reform

Looking ahead, Dr Motloung outlines key reforms essential for national stability. Chief among them is fostering national cohesion. “White and Afrikaner communities must make a concerted effort to integrate and work toward a common nationhood,” he asserts. “South Africa cannot move forward if segments of society seek to exist in isolation.”

At the municipal level, he urges a shift in how local governments engage with communities. “When residents take the initiative – whether by patching potholes or fixing infrastructure – municipalities shouldn’t see this as competition. The ANC has long said, ‘working together we can do more.’ It’s time to make that a reality.”

Economic reform must also be prioritised, particularly job creation and fair wages. “Certain jobs should be reserved for South African citizens, while education should be restructured to produce graduates with real-world competencies,” he suggests.

Finally, safety and security remain fundamental. “People need to feel safe at home and in the streets,” he insists. Without that, social trust and economic prosperity will remain elusive.

A call for pragmatism and urgency

As South Africa grapples with the weight of its challenges, Dr Motloung’s insights provide a sobering yet hopeful assessment. The country stands at a crossroads, and the path forward will depend on decisive leadership, structural reform, and a willingness among citizens to contribute to a national project greater than individual interests.

“In the end,” he says, “it’s about restoring faith, not just in government, but in each other.”

GNU Budget should support growth-enhancing measures

MOIRA MULLER — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 06:53:26 +0000

GNU Budget should support growth-enhancing measures

by Willie du Plessis

MOIRA MULLER Wed, 03/05/2025 - 08:53

The fourth quarter (4Q) gross domestic product (GDP) growth figures that were released on 4 March are positive, but the mild recovery in the GDP in the 4Q of 2024 again confirms that the Government of National Unity (GNU) is right to have set much higher inclusive growth and stronger job creation as South Africa’s key overarching economic priorities.

In commenting on the growth figures, Prof Raymond Parsons, economist from the North-West University (NWU) Business School, says the latest data again emphasises that growth in South Africa has been too low for too long and that the situation must be remedied by maintaining the right economic environment for investment and growth.

“With the figures coming on the eve of the presentation of the postponed Budget, the modest 4Q 2024 GDP growth of 0,6% must therefore also inform the tough choices facing the GNU in finalising an amended Budget. The GNU’s Medium Term Development Strategy itself has set an overall growth target of 3%, which is about the minimum needed for South Africa to begin to make a big dent in its unemployment levels and help to alleviate poverty.”

Prof Parsons says the GNU Budget on 12 March must therefore show a policy mix that carefully calibrates fiscal consolidation, avoids a negative tax-and-spend fiscal cycle, and supports growth-enhancing measures.

“Accelerated growth-friendly structural reforms, especially in infrastructure development, need to be implemented urgently to lift South Africa’s medium-term growth to 3%, say by 2027.”

According to Prof Parsons, fixed-capital formation remains a weak link in South Africa’s slow and uneven economic recovery, as it is still only at about 15% of GDP instead of the NDP’s target of 25% to 30%.

“Household spending has done most of the heavy lifting in South Africa’s economic upturn so far. Higher sustainable growth also helps to create the economic buffers and resilience needed to mitigate any external shocks caused by elevated global uncertainty,” he concludes.

Achievement of SONA targets will depend on faster implementation of growth-friendly policies

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 07:36:04 +0000

Achievement of SONA targets will depend on faster implementation of growth-friendly policies BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 02/07/2025 - 09:36

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s wide-ranging State of the Nation Address (SONA) agenda that confirms the tangible commitment of the Government of National Unity (GNU) to faster and higher job-rich growth is positive.

In commenting on the SONA, which was delivered on 7 February, Prof Raymond Parsons, economist of the NWU Business School, says the South African economy is indeed eventually capable of even much higher economic growth than 3% if the right choices are made.

“The present slow and uneven economic recovery nonetheless illustrates the extent to which accelerated structural reforms are urgently needed if South Africa is to even reach a 3% gross domestic product (GDP) growth by 2027.”

Prof Parsons says achieving the socioeconomic targets outlined in the SONA will therefore depend heavily on the accelerated implementation of growth-friendly policies and projects, better governance and less corruption at various levels, and ensuring that the country’s vulnerable public finances are properly stabilised.

“The SONA recognises that it will indeed also be essential to harness the participation of the business sector on an even bigger scale to reach much higher job-rich growth. Stricter timelines would be helpful to expedite the delivery of the much higher infrastructural spending emphasised in the SONA.”

Prof Parsons says on the global front, the SONA recognises the extent to which 2025 is going to be a roller-coaster year of change for many economies, including South Africa. As a small open economy, South Africa needs to play its cards smartly and, in particular, make its economy as “Trump-proof” as possible.

“South Africa’s economy needs to remain globally competitive in order to deal with both the risks and opportunities of a shifting geopolitical scenario. The SONA emphasises the extent to which South Africa’s hosting of the G20 this year is a big opportunity to ‘showcase’ the South African economy.”

Prof Parsons explains that the SONA thus seeks to advance the progress made by the Government of National Unity (GNU) to date.

“The overall challenge for GNU policy is now to build on the existing better short-term business confidence and convert it into long-term investor confidence. It is elevated investment that enables more growth. A clear and predictable policy environment and a high degree of policy certainty from now on will encourage business to take a long-term perspective on growth and development in South Africa,” he concludes.

Experts

Groundbreaking study gives frogs and reptiles indigenous names

Researchers have created a comprehensive list of indigenous names for frogs and reptiles in order to promote inclusive conservation

People are far more likely to protect what they can name

South Africa’s indigenous languages have long been marginalised in science

The inclusion of indigenous names in biodiversity literature is not only good science, but also democratic

In the spotlight: Prof Ian Rothmann

Unemployment level raises red flag about weak growth performance

Predicted growth not good enough for South Africa

Prof Tyobeka reappointed as member of South African Council for the Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

Back to the future from North Carolina State University

The fragile state of South Africa’s political and economic landscape: What to do?

South Africa is at a crossroads: Time to restore faith

The nature of power and politics

The challenges of 2025: Democracy under pressure

South Africa’s place in the world: A balancing act

The fragile social fabric

The road to 2035: A blueprint for reform

A call for pragmatism and urgency

GNU Budget should support growth-enhancing measures

Achievement of SONA targets will depend on faster implementation of growth-friendly policies