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DISCLOSE YOUR UK EARNINGS TO SARS?
South African Revenue Service wants you to file a tax return on your worldwide income
by HEATHER WALKER ast week many South Africans living in Britain were outraged to discover that the South African Revenue Service (SARS) expects them to declare their worldwide income. But is this the full story? According to the SA Promo website, SARS this month launched a Five Year Compliance Drive on all South African residents working abroad. This comes after South African Minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan, mentioned in his Budget Speech that SARS is going to target South Africans in foreign countries. “Your foreign income will NOT be taxed in South Africa, however, you are compelled by South African Law to have an Income Tax Number, submit a return to SARS every year and declare your worldwide income,” SA Promo stated. This applies even if: • You live more than 183 days abroad (including 60 continuous working days) • Your income is subject to Income Tax in the foreign country. • You created a Trust/CC/ Company in a foreign country into which the earnings are paid. South Africans reacted to this news with characteristic indignation – they posted comments such as, “That bunch of swindling criminals can go and get knotted. I refuse point blank to
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give them any indication of what I earn, it's because of them that all of us are here trying to earn money because they put us out of the job market because we are the wrong colour.” Another person wrote, “Dream on SARS! Where will you get our phone numbers anyways? And if you do get hold of us, exactly how will you make us face consequences?” We contacted Teresa Seaton, owner of Wordwide Tax, a company that specialises in both SA and British taxation, to find out whether all South Africans abroad need to declare their income. She explained “If you no longer reside in SA, don't have any assets there nor receive any income from SA you don't have to register. If you do have any of the above and don't declare worldwide income you can be severely penalised. However it does not mean that you will be taxed on all this income. Annually on a tax return we will look at days outside SA, double taxation agreements between SA and the country you’re earning income from etc. This rule has in fact been in place since 2001.” The SARS website states, “South Africa has a residence-based system, which means residents are - subject to certain exclusions taxed on their worldwide income, irrespective of where their income was earned. Non-residents are, however, taxed on their income from a South African source.”
INSIDE: SA Power 100 - 2012: Yusuf Timol | p13 Native Capetonian and Mister Economic at the SA High Commission, Yusuf Timol is passionate about building trade relations between Britain and South Africa.
Has SA education improved? | p3 Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, former Deputy President of South Africa and founder of the Umlambo Foundation, addressed the SA Business Club on the successes and challenges in SA education.
South African Property Monthly | pull-out
THE AFRICAN BARD: South Africa’s Isango Ensemble kicks off the Globe to Globe festival in London this weekend with Shakespeare’s ‘Venus and Adonis’ in IsiZulu, IsiXhosa, SeSotho, Setswana, Afrikaans and English. Tom Bird of The Globe Theatre tells us how he sourced 37 plays in 37 languages for this glorious month of theatre. Story on page 7.
Looking to buy property in SA? You’ll want to read our monthly pull-out which features homes for sale, as well as your property questions answered by the experts.
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| 17 April – 23 April 2012 | thesouthafrican.com
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District: Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 April, suspended between Richmond and Turnham Green. Rail replacement buses operate. Bus service: between Turnham Green and Richmond, calling at Chiswick Park, Gunnersbury and Kew Gardens. Overground: Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 April, no service between Watford Junction and Queen’s Park. Use Bakerloo line and replacement bus services; Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 April, no service between Richmond and Willesden Junction. Valid tickets will be accepted on replacement buses. Bus service: Richmond - Kew Gardens (bus stops in Kew Road) - Gunnersbury - Acton Central (also in lieu of South Acton) - Willesden Junction
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April
Action for Southern Africa - Public meeting: Justice for South African Miners Date: 18 April, 6.30pm Venue: TUC, Great Russell Street, WC1B 3LS Hear about the plight of South Africa’s gold miners, many thousands of whom are suffering from Silicosis. Register now by emailing campaigns@actsa.org Details: www.actsa.org Nelson Mandela’s Children’s Fund Volunteers Evening Date: 19 April, 6:30-9pm Venue: Berkshire House Come along and meet the team members of the Nelson Mandela’s Children’s Fund. Find out more about their work in the UK and South Africa and why volunteers are so vital to their UK-based fundraising efforts. It is an informal and relaxed evening with some light refreshments. If you would like to attend please contact Marian at marian.ayo@nmcf.co.uk or call 020 3077 1286 Venus and Adonis by the
Deon Lotz in Skoonheid, which opens in the UK this weekend.
Isango Ensemble Date: 21 April at 2.30pm & 7.30pm and 22 April at 6.30pm Venue: Shakespeare’s Globe, London This award-winning company from Cape Town will open the Globe to Globe festival with their carnival version of Shakespeare’s narrative poem ‘Venus and Adonis’. Their ability to bring native styles of song and dance to modern productions is quickly being recognised as unrivalled. They are also a force for united Africa, involving whole townships in their productions and working to support The Global Fund to Fight Aids.
“Skoonheid” in UK cinemas Date: From 20 April Venue: Screenings across UK Award-winning South African film “Skoonheid” (Beauty), which tells the story of a married man’s affair with a younger man, opens in UK cinemas on 20 April. Dates and venues include: 20 April: Odeon, Covent Garden and Apollo, Piccadilly 12 May: Hyde Park, Leeds 18 May: Duke Of York, Brighton 19 May: ICA, Pall Mall Visit our website at www.thesouthafrican.com/ entertainment for a review and full listings of cinemas.
Please email your events to: editor@thesouthafrican.com. For more listings, please visit www.thesouthafrican.com
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Has SA education changed for the better? Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka shared her vision for the future of public education at SA Business Club event in London so essential to the career. MlamboNgcuka cited lack of respect and professionalism as a key factor for this - a murmur from attendees indicated agreement - and hoped to work towards creating a schools’ workforce that will lead and inspire the children through their commitment, expertise and fervour for education. “Quality education is a collective responsibility,” said Wright, in his closing words, while MlamboNgcuka ended by imploring us to act rather than ‘sit around our tables criticising’. “I’m inviting you to make your hands dirty, and we are here to provide you with some dirt,”, the ex-Deputy President said. “The challenges are not insurmountable, but significant.” The Umlambo Foundation is currently looking for companies and institutions to sponsor schools and needs 200 new supporters to aid its work in the Eastern Cape
and Limpopo. Get your hands dirty today by sponsoring a school to help achieve real, lasting change for children in South Africa.
Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka with South African High Commissioner to UK, Dr Zola Skweyiya, and Deputy High Commissioner Bongiwe Qwabe at the SA Business Club event at Deloitte.
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MADAME Phumzile MlamboNgcuka, former Deputy President of South Africa and founder and executive chairperson of the Umlambo Foundation, addressed the SA Business Club at Deloitte on 4 April. Talking about her vision for the future of the Foundation, which invests in developing the leadership and management skills of principals to improve the quality of public education in South Africa, she was accompanied by Alex Wright from Link Community Development as the charities prepare to join forces in their fight for better education in SA. “In 1976 children died for education,” Mlambo-Ngcuka began, as she indicated the photograph of Hector Pieterson projected onto the wall behind her. “This is not the way today. We have come a long way as a nation, as a people.” But we still have far to go. Education came top of the postapartheid agenda and the 1996 South African Schools Act made schooling compulsory for all children aged seven to 15. The number of children attending school has increased to nearly 100%, but the quality of the education many of these children receive is questionable. Since early intervention programmes have been initiated, children are achieving better, although there is still concern over those in high school who missed out on such measures. Beneficial too have been the implementation of feeding programmes; Sonop Primer in Paarl recently adopted the scheme after realising how many children were coming to school hungry, and has found children’s progress improving because of it, said MlamboNgcuka. Interventions to support siblingheaded families will allow such children better access to education while sharing good practice with other African countries – especially Zimbabwe whose education system can be held up as a beacon despite the country’s troubled history – will help SA learn from her neighbours. But the area Mlambo-Ngcuka and LCD are primarily looking to target is school management and the quality of teachers. Top leaders who can manage, support, train and delegate with a strong understanding of the knowledge and skills needed to run effective educational establishments are the key to helping our children achieve, with the need for high quality educators a given. Many teachers, particularly in the rural communities, remain undereducated themselves and lack the enthusiasm and passion
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| 17 April – 23 April 2012 | thesouthafrican.com
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Sistas from the South turns two
by LINDA HAYES
ULULATION, laughter and clinking glasses echoed inside the Spring Garden Tavern in Hotwells, Bristol on 5 April when the Sistas from the South celebrated their second anniversary. The group blossomed from the idea of Abigail Klopper, a homesick South African expat photographer. Her idea was to establish a supportive networking group for southern African women who lived in and around Bristol, and felt isolated from their home. Abi sought out Kalahari Moon, the southern African shop in Bristol, owned by Rose Watkins. The shop is a colourful spot, not only to pick up favourite treats but also for a lively, inspiring chat. With the help of Rose and her colleague Lynda Marshall, Abi’s seedling germinated, and Sistas from the South was established in March 2010. Soon after the group was established Abi’s husband was offered a job back in South Africa and she returned to Cape Town, but the legacy endures. The group is now organised by Rose and artist Lizette Carter, who runs the group’s Facebook page and regularly e-mails members. Fellow enthusiast Bronwen Potgieter organises social gatherings, and since its establishment, the group has been responsible for the
Sistas from the South celebrate their second anniversary in Bristol.
formation of sound friendships, connections, support and lots of fun! The Sistas welcome all southern African women to regular meetings on the first Wednesday of every month where there is almost always an event or activity planned. Sometimes they also just sommer sit and have a drink and snacks, and a “kuier en gesels”! Guest speakers are welcome and have included those from several local or African charities.
Among activities organised so far are gumboot dancing, jewellerymaking, recipe-sharing, Christmas wreath-making and sushi lessons. At the recent anniversary, all the Sistas arrived in African dress. African music played while flags and regalia adorned the venue. A group discussion and quiz were fuelled by traditional food - and a grand evening was had by all. Long may it continue! Details: Rose Watkins info@ kalaharimoon.co.uk
thesouthafrican.com | 17 April – 23 April 2012 | Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/thesouthafrican
The LOCAL ROB BOFFARD
An extraordinary meeting
“OKAY, people, settle down. I now call this meeting of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee to order.” “Comrades! We must rise up against the capitalist oppressors…” “Mr Malema, if you wish to speak, kindly notify the secretary of your intentions, thank you so much.” “I will not be silenced!” “Maybe, but it doesn’t mean anyone has to listen to you. Anyway, to business. First item on the agenda is…secretary?” “Ahem. I believe we need to discuss the South African Olympic mascot, as we’re fast approaching the international deadline. The London committee have informed us that should we not have an appropriate animal mascot and matching kit, our athletes will be subjected to cavity searches at Heathrow.” “A serious matter. And one which we should give long, hard consideration to, and act upon at the earliest opportunity. But first, I propose we adjourn the meeting for tea and biscuits.” “Pardon me, Mr Chairman, but according to my Secretary Code Of Conduct, urgent matters must be dealt with urgently.” “…Fine. Urgent stuff first, biscuits later. Now, kit. I’m told our athletes must in fact wear clothes during the tournament. Now, let me see our budget. Oh dear. This isn’t good. Mr Secretary, exactly how much did we pay for those biscuits?” “I believe we put out a tender for a quarter of a trillion rand, Comrade Chairman.” “Hmmm. Regrettable. This means we might not have any money for kit. Any ideas? Come on people, blue sky thinking! Put the sky outside the box! Whiteboard me.” “Er, chairman, I have an idea?” “Yes, Comrade Semenya?” “Why don’t we just use a few old Bafana Bafana jerseys? It’s
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not as if anyone will know the difference…” “An excellent point, comrade. Mr Secretary, make a note. And Comrade Semenya, if you could please contact SAFA on our behalf. Maybe they’ve got a few old jerseys knocking about at the back of a cupboard somewhere.” “Mr Chairman, that still leaves the matter of the mascot.” “Thank you Mr Secretary, I was getting to that. I suggest something indicative of the transformative nature of our evocative and highly speculative country. Does anybody have a rhino costume?” “I do, Mr Chairman!” “Thank you Comrade Pistorius! You have sprinted to our aid once again. What is it, Mr Secretary?” “Mr Chairman, if I might make a small point? I believe the Olympic Committee guidelines state that the mascot must not only feature the Olympic rings but be indisputably African. A rhino may be mistaken as coming from South Asia, Sir.” “Hmmm, good point. Mr Malema, put your hand down! What are you still doing here?” “But I have an idea! Why don’t we get some coloured bangles from one of the vendors on Sandton Offramp, and put them on the rhino’s horn? Those could be our Olympic rings!” “That…is a surprisingly good idea, comrade. Indisputably African, Olympic-standard and, crucially, cheap. Okay Mr Malema, you can stay.” “Now, I believe that settles matters. About those biscuits…”
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| 17 April – 23 April 2012 | thesouthafrican.com Follow us on Twitter: @TheSAnews
Have you been spotted?
MADIBA ADMIRERS: The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund UK launched Antoinette Haselhorst’s new book Reflections on Nelson Mandela at Chinawhite in London on 29 March. Proceeds from this event went towards NMCF’s dedicated children’s hospital called the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital. See story on page 8.
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The Bard – with an African twist With SA’s Isango Ensemble kicking off the Globe to Globe Shakespeare festival this weekend, Tom Bird tells us about the Bard’s immense impact in Africa and how he gathered 37 plays in 37 languages from across the world
by NICOLE HOLGATE ELECTRIFYING, political, and hilarious: modern interpretations of Shakespeare have more richness and life in them than Big Brother, Coronation Street and Strictly Come Dancing put together. Tom Bird of The Globe Theatre has spent the past year crossing continents to put together Globe to Globe, which presents 37 of Shakespeare’s plays in 37 languages. As the Globe theatre itself wouldn’t exist without the care of South African architect Theo Crosby, we discussed the festival, and how it exemplifies the powerful influence of Shakespeare on Africa. How excited are you? It’s incredible, it’s the most ambitious theatre festival anyone’s ever done, and it’s great to be on the brink of doing something very bold and new, of which everyone said 18 months ago “there’s no way you can do it.” Where did the idea start, and when did you get involved? I’ve been at The Globe for five and a half years, and I began working on this project about 18 months ago. We began thinking about the languages spoken in London, and thought we have to reflect those, so we have Macbeth in Polish for example. Then we thought about the countries Shakespeare is amazingly popular in, even small places like Georgia. Then we began travelling to see groups we hadn’t seen already. Some groups like Isango, from South Africa, have toured here, but otherwise it was a case of seeing the companies’ work. We went out and said “Let's see your vision of Hamlet”. It’s less a case of “Is this a great show” but “Will it work?” Why choose an SA company, Isango Ensemble, to open the festival? We wanted to open with something very old, something electrifying. If we started with something middle of the road you wouldn’t get the
impact. Venus and Adonis is a European premiere, it’s only been shown in Cape Town. It’s also great to get something new, as it’s originally a narrative poem. There are six languages within the play, which is a lovely microcosm of the festival as a whole, it’s excitingly polyglot. What kind of companies were you looking for? Was it a case of finding a company then choosing the language? In terms of matching group to play, it was interesting. Sometimes people had a show already. If they didn’t there was more negotiation. But about a third of the plays existed already. We have the national theatre of China, who don’t have much funding at all, right through to some of the newest theatre companies who are reinventing the way we do and see Shakespeare. It’s great to have that spectrum. Tell me more about the African groups. There are five: even one from South Sudan, which is as inaccessible as you can get. Raz Shaw went out there, did some workshops with them and had a great time. It’s a brand new translation of Cymbeline into Juba Arabic, a world premiere. It’s a massive moment in their cultural life. And they’re a new theatre company: they just combined all the theatre groups in South Sudan and called it the South Sudan Theatre Group. There’s a group from Kenya who are turning the Merry Wives of Windsor into the Merry Wives of Nairobi. The Merry Wives is like a sitcom, in a very West London sort of setting, so it will be interesting to see how it translates to an African one. Did you get a feel for Shakespeare’s influence on Africa? It was huge. Julius Caesar has had a lot of
Tom Bird, Globe to Globe Festival Director. Photo by Bronwen Sharp.
influence. Julius Nyerere, leader of Tanzanian independence, was the first to translate it into Swahili. Shakespeare has always been big in South Africa. We received a letter from a South Sudanese group saying ‘it’s not
well known, but during our civil war, Shakespeare got us through’. They were lying out under the stars waiting for the killing that would happen the next day. Do the companies know what they’re getting into with the setup of The Globe? It’s a messy set-up, you’ve got the audience eyeballing you! A lot of the directors have been here and had a look and thought ‘I can’t do this, or this’. There’s no one coming to it blind, which
is great. Any particularly memorable times? Too many dramatic moments to say! It’s been amazing, so many touching moments. And why should people come? It'd be mad not to! It’s only a fiver to see the best theatre from around the world. Isango’s three performances are on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 April. Tickets: Phone 020 7401 9919 or you can purchase tickets online at www.shakespearesglobe.com
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| 17 April – 23 April 2012 | thesouthafrican.com Follow us on Twitter: @TheSAnews
New book explores the "meaning of Mandela" byJENNIFER MUNRO ANTOINETTE Haselhorst, well-known South African photographer and author, launched her new book, Reflections on Nelson Mandela - Icon of Peace at Chinawhite nightclub in London. The book combines Antoinette’s portraits of Mandela with photos of and quotes from celebrities and ordinary people who all give their responses to the question “What do you think society, mankind and humanity can learn from Nelson Mandela’s values and virtues?” It is published by Titan Books, and some of the proceeds from the book will go towards The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund for the purpose of building a special children’s hospital in Johannesburg. "People always put Mr Mandela on a pedestal," said Antoinette. "This book encourages them to believe that instead of canonising him, we should be emulating him. We can all be like him, as we all have his qualities within us." The function was attended by Richard Taylor, father of Damilola Taylor and head of the Damilola Taylor Trust. His comments on Mandela are included in the book, as are those of Carlos Saint Bean,
21 & 22 APRIL 2012 3 PERFORMANCES ONLY OPENING WEEKEND CELEBRATION
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the DJ who rocked the party at Chinawhite, schoolchildren and a rich mixture of celebrities such as Kevin Spacey, Boris Johnson, Barbra Streisand, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Diana Ross,
Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, Richard Branson, Celine Dion, Whoopi Goldberg, Arnold Schwarzenegger and many others. Buy the book on Amazon or www.titanbooks.com
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Antoinette Haselhorst signs copies of her Mandela book at the London launch.
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The OPTIMIST KAREN DE VILLIERS
Am I still going to hell with my friends? THERE are serious clues for a dysfunctional personality when it comes to moi, but none more so than my early religious education. Legally, and on Sundays, I was a member of the fearsome Dutch Reformed Church. Monday to Friday I went to the Notre Dame Catholic School and on Fridays was Shabbat with my closest friend, who happened to be Jewish and went to the Convent with me. We young’uns were a theologian’s dream. Last week, an article by Charles Leonard, entitled ‘The slow and steady death of the Dutch Reformed Church’, appeared in the Mail & Guardian. Most would have given it a cursory glance, but for me, it seemed a slow death of a feared leader. I was terrified of the Dutch Reformed Church. In retrospect, calling it just a church is like calling the Pope a simple man. The Dutch Reformed Church ruled the country - nothing new when you look at church and politics in the world’s history - but this was a doctrine that supported Apartheid, censored the media and told the bullies in the government
FANIE os oppie jas
FANIE VAN DER MERWE
Oor dienslewering. En die gebrek daaraan. ‘N PAAR maande gelede het die ondenkbare gebeur. Hier, in misdaadvrye (!) Engeland, het ‘n skarminkel by my kar ingebreek. Ek bêre gelukkig nie my Rolex-horlosies, diamantoorbelle en Mont Blancpenne in my paneelkissie nie en my totale verliese het neergekom op £1.70 se parkeergeld en ‘n stukkende satnav-stelsel. Vir versekeringsdoeleindes moes dié misdaad egter by die polisie aangemeld word en ek het terstond die toepaslike 0800-nommer geskakel. Die vrouestem aan die ander kant van die lyn was meer as net ‘n tikkie besorg. “Vergeet van die skade aan die kar” het sy gesê, “is jý oraait?”. “Die Metropolitaanse Polisiemag bied gratis traumaberadingsessies vir misdaadslagoffers aan, kan ek jou inboek vir só ‘n sessie?”,
what to do. And I believed everything they told me. Which was all too conflicting for a young girl who played hockey with the nuns and knitted jerseys for Biafra refugees. They never told me not to mix with Catholics and Jews, to worship saints and Mother Mary, even if I did love saying the ‘Hail Mary’ because the word ‘virgin’ was in it. My Jewish friends never denied me a place at their table. Yet it was my church that told me over and over again that all my Catholic and Jewish friends were going straight to Hell with all the black people. One wonders why I hardly slept at night, praying for the salvation of my ill-led friends. Horror of all horrors was the learning of the weekly bible verse: honestly who was going to spend Saturday with their nose in the Bible? And now the giant is sinking into the quicksand. And I feel very strange about that, despite all. For all the lies, the arrogance, the manipulation of some in the Dutch
Reformed Church, there were many more good, humble people who had absolute faith in what was right and tried to steer the moral compass. Trying to justify Apartheid on religious grounds was the death knell for this church. But, as with any religion, do not let the dogma veil the faith. I may be a product of the Dutch Reformed Church, but I believe having the opportunity to mix with other forms of religion, I had eventually discovered the difference between faith and religion. I still have absolute faith in being an Afrikaner, praying in a Catholic Church, sharing Shabbat and honouring others – it is so much bigger than all of us. So much more exciting that the bullies who try to tell us what to think. I was so terrified of my church that I used to hope the teacher fell over the balcony rather than catch me out for not knowing my ‘versie’on a Sunday. That church is dying they say, and hopefully a new, positive faith will rise from the ashes. God knows we need it.
Visit: TheSouthAfrican.com/move-to-australia In association with
wou sy verder weet. Ek het haar verseker dat ek, as ‘n SuidAfrikaner wat daagliks die Nuus24-webblad verslind, oor ‘n hoër traumadrempel beskik as waaraan sy gewoond was en ek het haar aanbod vriendelik van die hand gewys. Dit het nie geklink of sy my glo nie en het as ‘n afskeidswoord my gemaan om tóg maar ‘n glas suikerwater te drink. Op ‘n ander keer het ek onverwags gas geruik. Ek was nie uitermate bekommerd nie, maar het in elk geval op die Nasionale Gasnooddiens se knoppie gedruk. Hiérdie keer was die telefoonoperateur op die rand van histerie. Met militêre presisie is ‘n rits veiligheidsinstruksies afgerammel en is ek verseker dat ‘n ingenieur binne ‘n halfuur by my sou wees. Skaars twintig minute later was die gasman in my kombuis doenig. Tydens die sowat twee ure wat sy besoek geduur het, het hy nie net die gaslekplek opgespoor én herstel nie, maar ook sommer my hele gasstelsel vernuwe deur die stokou boute en moere en pypies en draadjies te vervang. Met sy vertrek het ek my beursie uitgehaal, maar hy het vol genoegdoening gegiggel en met ‘n waai van die hand beduie dat ‘n betaling oorbodig sou wees. Drie weke gelede verneem ek dat die munisipale rekening vir my eiendompie in Pretoria agterstallig
is. Dis ‘n lang storie, maar die kruks van die saak is dis nie my skuld nie. Ek is egter meer as bereid om die keiser te gee wat hom toekom...as die keiser dit net in ontvangs wil neem. Vir die eerste week het ek elke dag die nommer van die Tshwane Munisipaliteit geskakel, maar ten spyte van wat die koerante sê, blyk niemand daar te veel gepla te wees oor die invordering van agterstallige skuld nie. Mens word deurgeskakel na die ‘regte departement’, om dan vir ‘n leeftyd te moet aanhou voordat die lyn bloot doodgaan, of iemand antwoord en sê dat jy deurgeskakel is na die ‘verkeerde departement’. En dan begin die bose siklus van voor af. Te wyte aan my hemelhoë telefoonrekening, stuur ek nou maar elke dag ‘n e-pos getiteld “Ek wil my agterstallige skuld betaal” na die munisipaliteit se kliëntediensadres, maar na 12 probeerslae is die persoon aan dáái kant van die internet steeds grafstil. Dalk kan die Tshwane Munisipaliteit kom kers opsteek (pun intended) by die Britse Nasionale Gasnooddiens en ‘n erns begin maak met die mense wie hulle salarisse betaal. Wie weet, dalk kan die oorspoel van ‘n Arabiese Lente na ‘n SuidAfrikaanse Winter nog dalk net voorkom word.
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Important information for PPS policyholders If you have a PPS Sickness and Permanent Incapacity Benefit or PPS Professional Disability Provider policy and are currently living and working in the UK, you should check whether your policy benefits are still sufficient for your needs. In some cases, higher UK earnings for graduate professionals and the effects of currency fluctuations mean that PPS members could need to purchase more units to maintain their level of cover. However, records show that many members simply maintain their contributions at South African levels. In the event that you should need to draw on your policy, that could mean you will find that your cover does not provide the level of benefit you need.e RSM Tenon has been appointed by PPS to develop it’s UK services for members. Call us now to find out if your policy is still right for you, or find out more at: www.rsmtenon.com/pps
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THREE INSIGHTS INTO: QROPS
by PAUL HARRISON ON moving abroad many South African residents leave their UK private pension arrangements in place. These private pensions remain subject to UK pension laws. As a result, the pension income may be subject to UK income tax (20% deducted at source). Additionally, the UK’s investment restrictions relating to pensions would apply indefinitely and the member payment charges (up to 55%) may apply on death. Under UK legislation effective from April 2006, expatriates or UK residents who have a demonstrable intention to move overseas may transfer the value of their UK pension rights to a non-UK pension scheme and avoid most of the normal restrictions imposed on the pension fund if it remained in the UK. The transfer must be made to a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) that is approved by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). Paul Harrison sat down with Derek Krijger of Fintec
Derek Krijger gives his top tips on transferring to QROPS.
Consultants to get his top three tips on the process of transferring to a QROPS. Who qualifies for a QROPS? When considering transferring your UK pension into a QROPS you need to be confident of your intention to leave the UK and remain a non-UK tax resident. The tax implications of the country you will move to would have a significant effect on the tax you pay on income and capital received from your QROPS. What are the benefits of a
QROPS? A QROPS can reduce the tax paid on your pension income; there is also no requirement to purchase an annuity. They offer increased investment choices and can be paid in any currency. Unlike a UK annuity, you may pass on your QROPS pension lump sum to loved ones when you die with no Inheritance Tax to pay. Currently if you die before 75 you will probably have a 35% tax charge before you can pass on the proceeds to your beneficiaries, but if you die after 75 you will probably have an 82% tax charge! Huge gains can be made on proper Inheritance Tax Planning (IHT) with a correctly set up QROPS Pension Transfer. What should my major consideration be on QROPS? Remember that the fundamental purpose of a pension is to provide retirement income. So, it is vital to ensure that your money does not run out before you do – and to avoid taking unnecessary risks with your income or capital. A regularly updated list of offshore pension schemes that meet the HMRC strict qualifying rules is published on its website.
maximum length of time you can spend in Britain will be limited before UK taxes apply.
Paul Flude is a South African attorney based in London who specialises in Wills, Trusts, Probate and IHT matters. He has clients who need more information on how QROPS work and asked Derek Krijger some questions. Do I need to leave the UK forever to benefit from a QROPS? No. Rising numbers of people who decide to retire overseas can take advantage of a QROPS. You can continue to visit friends and family or return to Britain for any reason, provided you remain a non-tax resident of the UK. So, you can return to the UK whenever you wish but the
What is the minimum value for a QROPS pension transfer? Each specific QROPS Pension Transfer varies. Different schemes have different charging structures. We have found that the minimum required for a basic QROPS Pension Transfer is around £25,000. Remember you can combine more than one pension to reach this figure and you can top it up with other assets or funds. Whatever the value of your pension, there is usually a solution to be found.
Paul Flude, a South African attorney has some questions about QROPS.
Which QROPS jurisdiction should I use? Deciding on the jurisdiction of your QROPS Pension Transfer is one of the most important decisions you will need to make. The QROPS jurisdiction is the country or state where a pension fund is located, and therefore
tax laws, and other laws, affect the fund’s governance. You should ensure that it is in a tax-efficient and secure jurisdiction with strong investor principles similar to the UK. Your choice should offer significant improvement in investment and benefit options available.
APRIL 2012 #77
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MONTHLY
South African property and lifestyle for international investors OWN A PRIVATE KINGDOM AND BE TREATED LIKE ROYALTY FROM R2 995 000
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NEWS/TRENDS >>
Why homes with beautiful gardens sell SA homes getting smaller by DENISE MHLANGA For many property buyers, the decision to finally purchase a home is inevitably swung by emotions, which often seal the property sale deal. Buyers are said to walk into a home during a show house and later when the deal has been signed, say something along the lines of “I just fell in love with the place”. According to Mike Greeff, chief executive officer of Greeff Properties, an Affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estates, property sellers can tap into this phenomenon in a number of ways – from a cosmetic lick of paint, to more fundamental remedies necessitating blood, sweat and renovations. He notes that in the currently heavily stocked buyer’s market, the property for sale has to shout much louder than the others if it is to be noticed, and what better way to do it than investing in the garden, which ultimately sets a tone for what the home has to offer. “First impressions are vital and gardens can make or break a deal.” Greeff explains that when buyers view homes, they start at the front gate and an appealing garden is often the ticket to getting a potential
buyer through the front door. Gardens are so often an afterthought and many people don’t budget for them while others run out of time and just throw money at the problem, according to Gwen Gower, managing director and owner of EarthWorx Garden World in Hout Bay. Gower says while a beautiful garden requires an investment, blowing a fortune on plants at the nursery does not guarantee an Eden. People tend to get carried away and buy like crazy when they love how a plant looks in the nursery, forgetting that it’s growing under ideal conditions. They then rush home and plant it without any forethought or planning as to position, the soil in their own garden and general maintenance, and
disappointment invariably follows, says Gower. Gower says homeowners need to get expert advice and extensive consultations on gardening particularly if they wish to sell their homes at some stage. “A well-researched and thoughtfully landscaped garden will mean a significant saving in money and time in the long run.” Greeff Properties estate agent Debbie Woods points out that while it is difficult to quantify how much monetary value a beautiful garden adds to a property, wellkept, landscaped grounds do attract far more offers than a standard run-of-the mill garden. “Neglected and dull gardens undoubtedly detract from property values,” she says. Property24.com
BAROMETER
Repo rate remains unchanged at 5.5% by DENISE MHLANGA The South African Reserve Bank Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has decided to keep the repurchase rate unchanged at 5.5 percent per annum. Announcing the decision, the Reserve Bank Governor Gill Marcus says holding interest rates steady is an active decision and not a default one. The MPC’s decision is guided by global economic trends, their implications, how these affect South Africa’s economy and in what timeline, she explains. Marcus says the world is
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faced with uncertainty and the bank cannot afford to be complacent about South Africa’s economic outlook as the country is also affected by these uncertainties. According to Adrian Goslett, chief executive officer of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, the repo rate has remained unchanged since November 2010 in the hopes that the low and steady rate would help stimulate the economy. He notes that low interest rates and major banks’ more relaxed lending approach have done just that. “The property market
continues to see a marked improvement with more buyers entering the market thanks to affordability. He says bond origination companies have reported as much as 63 percent growth in the volume of bond transactions processed during February 2012, compared with the same period during 2011. For the first time, reports have shown that January was a better month than December, which is good news for the property sector and points to the market moving in the right direction, he says. Property24.com
www.sapropertymonthly.co.uk
by STAFF REPORTER The South African residential property market has radically adjusted to tough economic conditions and land shortages over the past four years. This is according to Lanice Steward, managing director of Anne Porter Knight Frank. She explains that a great deal has been said about homes being more realistically priced as sellers react to current market conditions. Steward notes that the latest FNB Property Barometer reveals that new residential stands, which in 1970 to
1974 averaged just over 1 000 square metres, dropped by 2010 to just over 500 square metres, meaning they have literally halved in size on new developments. Similarly, average building sizes have dropped from 203 square metres in 1970 to 1974 to 146 square metres in 2010 to the present and this figure is still declining. Also affected have been sectional title units, where the average size of new units today is a mere 90 square metres, she says. Steward explains that it has to be remembered that sectional title units have always been relatively compact – the bigger units with 160 square metres or more mostly date from the 1950s to 1960s. However, the FNB figures show that by 2000 to 2004, on new projects the average had in fact crept up to nearly 130 square metres - the drop to 90 square metres is therefore significant, she says.
Another big change can be seen in the fall-off in domestic quarters and swimming pools. In 1955 to 1959, half of new houses had domestic quarters. Since 2010, this figure has dropped to 11.5 percent. In 1980 to 1984, 40 percent of new houses had swimming pools, today the figure is down to 9.1 percent. Garages are now more frequently seen as a luxury extra, she points out. Since 2010 only half of new homes have been given these and this is 10 percent below the previous figure of 69.5 percent, says Steward. She notes that there has also been a big decline in four bedroom homes and a big rise in two bedroom homes. The good news from the property sector is that
house prices are now beginning to stabilise in all the sought-after areas and banks are increasing the number of loans granted, she adds. Property24.com
APRIL 2012
<< NEWS/TRENDS
SA expatriates looking to buy homes by STAFF REPORTER Returning South African expatriates could be a key pillar in the recovery of the market for higher-priced homes. According to Ronald Ennik, chief executive officer of Ennik Estates, SA expatriates - particularly those who have been living in the UK - could help the market recover. “In the wake of the eurozone debt crisis, and the employment and other uncertainty it has created, living and working abroad has lost its lustre for many expats,” says Ennik. Ennik says this is clearly mirrored in the uptick in buy enquiries they are receiving from South Africans wishing to come back home. While no statistics are officially available, Homecoming Revolution, a Johannesburg-based non-
profit organisation that encourages and assists expats to return, says it is receiving 120 enquiries a month from South Africans living abroad who wish to come home. “One of our partners, who specialises in car imports to South Africa has noted a 30 percent increase since August 2010 in the number of South Africans wanting to ship their vehicles back to South Africa,” says Brigitte BrittenKelly, managing executive of Homecoming Revolution. Most of the returnees are leaving the UK where they have lived for the past 10 years or more and are now finding the economy a strain. Many are also coming home from Australia and Dubai, she says. Britten-Kelly says they are generally aged between 30 and 40, with young families, and are looking for a better
standard of living for their children. “Luxury homes in South Africa are well-priced right now from a foreign investment perspective,” says Ennik. Ennik says given that returning expats are bringing hard foreign currency into
a favourable exchange rate climate, they are generally spoilt for choice in an upper home price band that offers them high value and potential return for the pounds, euros and dollars they invest in their new homes here. Among the biggest factors
driving their return to South Africa is the explosive economic growth taking place in sub-Saharan Africa, with South Africa not only its gateway, but also the region’s leading investment destination, he adds. Property24.com
<< ADVERTORIAL
Rent with an option to buy property by STAFF REPORTER There are several good reasons to pay a deposit when you buy a home - among them the fact that you will have a smaller bond repayment to make each month and that you will save a mint in interest over the life of your home loan. However, with property prices and interest rates at their current lows, many buyers who feel they can comfortably afford a monthly loan instalment really don’t want to wait until they have saved up a deposit before getting into the market. So what should they do, especially when most banks are still very sticky about granting 100 percent bonds? “Well, one answer is to rent a home now from an owner who is prepared to give you an option to buy it later at a pre-agreed price,” says Berry Everitt, MD of the Chas Everitt International property group. This is not so unlikely as it sounds, he says, as many homeowners are only renting out their properties at the moment because they have
APRIL 2012
not been able to sell. “There are those who would be very happy to have the prospect of a sale at the end of a lease with rental income in the meantime from financially-sound tenants who also have an incentive to keep the property in good repair because it is going to become their own. Everitt says the advantage of such an arrangement for the prospective buyer/tenant is that the contract will usually provide for him to buy the property at a pre-agreed price at the end of the lease or sooner – therefore fixing the price while allowing sufficient time to save up a deposit. In addition, he says landlords looking forward to a sale at the end of the lease period might charge a lower rental or perhaps even allow a portion of the monthly rent to be offset against the agreed purchase price. This, he adds, would provide the tenant with a ‘readymade’ deposit at the end of the lease if he purchases it. Property24.com
The Taj Residences boasts bedrooms with attached terraces that lead out to stunning views of Table Mountain.
Luxury in Cape Town city: Taj Residences on sale by STAFF REPORTER One of Cape Town’s most exclusive luxury hotels, the Taj has unveiled a number of studio, one and two bedroomed residences for sale with Seeff appointed as the sole agent. The units are priced from R2.99 million for a studio to R6.35 million for a two bedroomed residence. Each is spacious and opulently furnished to the Taj Group’s highest international standard and attention to detail. There has been significant
www.sapropertymonthly.co.uk
interest in the hotel suite market, says Seeff City Bowl managing director Ian Slot, and since unveiling these in mid-2011, a number of units have already sold. The fully serviced apartments are spacious with en-suite bathrooms with oversized bath tubs and showers as well as a living and dining area and kitchenette. Sit-out balconies offer views of Table Mountain or St Georges Mall, he adds. Owners have access to hotel facilities such as a spa, fitness
centre with a heated pool, three restaurants and a cigar lounge. Chauffeured airport and city transfers, welcome drinks, evening canapés and cocktails, daily international newspapers, use of a boardroom, a 24-hour butler service, in-room dining, daily housekeeping and laundry services are further benefits for owners. For further information please contact Seeff City Bowl, Warren Emett on +27 82 749 7166 or you can email development@seeff.com
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nooRDHoek
R6 750 000
cape town cbD
THE PRIDE OF BELVEDERE Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 Garages 4 WEB 262670 In a quiet cul-de-sac. Unobscured sea and mountain views and an abundance of accommodation! Suits a large and or extended family. Separate flatlet. [O] +27 21 785 2035 DALE GREMELS +27 82 539 9393 noordhoek@seeff.com
simon’s town
R4 250 000
TICKS ALL THE MOST FASTIDIUOS ''BUYERS'' BOXES
LIFE OF LUXURY
Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 2 Garages 2 WEB 260322 Mini Kirstenbosch garden. Double Plot. Awesome sea vistas. “Out of Africa” stoep. Permitations of usage. North-facing. Walk to Boulders and town square. [O] +27 21 786 5393 BRETT M COOPER +27 72 277 3308 simonstown@seeff.com
1 and 2 Bedrooms with Parking 10 Spectacular residences available in the Taj Hotel. Full of heritage, these beautiful apartme
knysna
R2 400 000
[O] +21 423 9146 WARREN EMETT +27 82 749 7166 citybowl@seeff.com
plettenbeRg bay
R5 975 000
KNYSNA CENTRAL
SPACIOUS AND ELEGANT WITH STUNNING VIEWS
Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 Garage 1 WEB 242281 Golden oldie with great views. Wooden beams, sash windows, open-plan gourmet kitchen, large lounge with fireplace, study, extra room as TV/family room. + Full flatlet. [O] +27 44 382 5919 LIVIANA AUDIBERT +27 82 500 2259 knysna@seeff.com
Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 5.5 Garages 2 WEB 259106 Sea and Robberg views from all three levels. Modern, with beautiful finishes. Spacious bedrooms and bathrooms (all en-suite). Secluded garden, Lock-up driveway. [O] +27 44 533 0311 MONTY PEET +27 83 444 3310 plett@seeff.com
SA s preferred home of more than 33 000 properties for sale and rent.
FRom R2 995 000
DainFeRn valley
R7 800 000
OPULENCE PREVAILS IN THIS BEAUTIFUL MAJESTIC HOME Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 5 Garages 3 WEB 262106 2 930m . Overlooking a greenbelt park, Bali prevails, double volume entrance, 4 formal receptions, lounge with fireplace, diningroom room, TV room, guest suite, scullery etc. [O] +27 11 784 1222 NICOLE COTTLE +27 72 412 3698 sandton@seeff.com
HuRlingHam
R5 250 000 neg
FOR A WONDERFUL FAMILY LIFE WEB 245760
ents are convenient and well sought-after.
la lucia
R9 750 000
Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 3 Garages 3 WEB 262249 Light & bright, easy flowing contemporary. On over half-acre. Pool and court. 4 Upstairs bedrooms, downstairs guest suite. Private & secure. [O] +27 11 784 1222 DOUG MCMEEKING +27 82 549 1248 | GARETH ROBERTSON +27 79 318 6733 sandton@seeff.com
pRetoRia
R2 900 000
FOR THE DISCERNING BUYER WITH IMPECCABLE TASTE
LYNNWOOD - BREATHTAKING CLASSIC
Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 4 Garages 2 WEB 131852 Magnificent home of 600m2. Large entertainment areas including a formal dining-room and large bar area. Spacious bedrooms with breath-taking sea-views. Finishes of the highest standard. [O] +27 31 561 1090 BRETT BOTSIS +27 84 583 1961 umhlangarocks@seeff.com
Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 3 Reception Rooms 5 Garages 3 WEB 254277 Superb position, “work from home”. Study, library for teaching academy, medical practice etc. All rooms lead to patio, pool, jacuzzi etc. + 40m² flat. Excellent security. [O] +27 12 452 2500 BIXIE VAN SCHALKWYK +27 82 553 0084 lynnwood@seeff.com
SA s preferred home of more than 33 000 properties for sale and rent.
LIFESTYLE >>
Lighting for living rooms by ANTONELLA DESI Using light to create atmosphere and set the mood is one of the most affordable and effective means of transforming a well decorated, but otherwise lifeless room. Make the most of ceiling lights Usually, living rooms are equipped with a central lighting point in the ceiling. Using a traditional halfshade in this position creates a harsh, monotonous light that does nothing to show off the attractive features of a space nor to disguise any less attractive features. There are a number of ways to avoid this problem without having to spend a great deal of money. For instance, try extending the central flex and looping it through a ceiling hook – this will give you scope to hang a pendant light wherever you choose, perhaps over a dining table or in a corner over a sofa for example. Downlights are another good solution – basically a downlight is a fixed, downward-pointing spot that is most often recessed into the ceiling. A central group or a linear row of these will provide excellent, even illumination. Downlights are especially
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useful for visually lowering a high ceiling and, if you can position them more freely, they can be used to highlight various features and artworks in your living space. Spotlights and track lights are also a very affordable solution – they are versatile and if you fit a cluster of them in place of one central light, they can be angled to direct the light where it is most needed. Spots can be aimed directly at an object for a dramatic effect. They can also be angled at walls, ceilings or mirrors to make a small room seem larger or a dark room seem brighter, and are great when used for task lighting. An incredibly inexpensive way of softening the effect of a single central light is to use one of the many shapes of large, paper lampshades. These create a virtually glare-free, two dimensional light. Light shining from the hole at the top of the shade bounces off the ceiling, forming a pool of brightness, while light through the shade diffuses gently over the room. However, if the effect is to be maintained the shade will need regular dusting. Ceiling light systems can be made even more flexible by installing a dimmer switch at
the main control. These are simple and inexpensive to fit, and they allow the light to be adjusted from full strength to a cosy glow with many subtle moods in between. Wall lights and sidelights More flexible than ceiling lights, a combination of wall and portable lights can be tailored to suit the whole family’s needs. Wall lamps provide good background lighting, but are best installed when you are redecorating, as the supply wires will need to be chased into the wall behind the plaster. Concealed strip lights in wall units, above and below book shelves, under pelmets or alcoves for example, are a subtle source of background lighting and provide an attractive carpet of light down the wall. Mounted strip lights can also be used to highlight pictures or wall ornaments. Freestanding table or shelf lamps can also help create a well-balanced lighting design, especially when used in conjunction with standard pendant, wall or floor lights. If you want to avoid highlighting the wall, choose one of the low-level lamps with a translucent “mushroom-shaped” shade – these cast pools of warm,
www.sapropertymonthly.co.uk
subdued light down onto the table for alternating the mood of a room. Portable lights There is no need to lose the subtle effect of your noncentral lighting scheme when one of the family want to read, sew or do anything that
requires a more direct light source. Portable or standard lamps can provide a good directional light that is perfect for task lighting. These lights can also be moved around easily, which makes them incredibly versatile. Property24.com
APRIL 2012
<< ASK THE EXPERT
Buyers’ rights for new developments
I
would like to purchase a new development in Johannesburg that will be completed next year. As the apartment isn't complete yet, I was interested in what rights I have if the developer includes or omits fixtures that were not originally listed.
B
efore you buy a home “offplan” from a developer or a speculative builder, you must make sure that your sale agreement is individualised and specifies all the fixtures and fittings you want in as much detail as possible – and be prepared to perhaps pay more for any items that are not on the “standard” building plan on offer. For example, if you want to add a shower to a bathroom where there was only a bath on plan, your contract must say so, and you may have to pay for it. Other variations that buyers often request are additional plug points and light fittings, tiles instead of carpets in some areas and additional built-in cupboards. In other words, it is essential that you study the building plans and basic specifications very
carefully before you decide to buy into any new development - and that you do not rely on what you see in a show home, as these are often bigger and finished to a higher standard than the actual units to be built. On the other hand, if the developer or someone representing him (like an estate agent) makes promises to you in order to induce you to sign a sale agreement, you do have rights in terms of the Consumer Protection Act which came into effect last year. You may be promised, for example, that certain items that you don’t like will be removed or exchanged for something else, or that certain things that you do want will be provided, “no problem”. If these promises are then not kept, you can report the matter to the Consumer
Commission, which has the power to order the developer to rectify things and even to impose a fine for misleading marketing. However, unless you have
've heard that I could face difficulties buying a property in South Africa without a credit rating in South Africa. What kind of issues are likely to arise and what are my potential solutions?
criteria and we recommend that you contact an expert in home finance such as ooba (www.ooba.co.za) for further assistance. If you are a cash buyer, however, there will be no difficulties.
better to rely on a detailed, individualised sale contract. Berry Everitt CEO of the Chas Everitt International property group www.chaseveritt.co.za
Run by South Africans
Buy UK Repossessed Properties Property Investment Key Features • Buy UK Investment Properties for as little as £9,995 • Achieve returns from 250% to 400%+ over 5 years • Create an additional income stream • Discounts from 15% to 30% off today’s bank valuation • All properties qualified by reputable ARLA letting agents • Rental Guarantees option available • Properties managed by UK’s Largest Letting agent • Our experienced team handle the entire process for you
Credit ratings for foreigners
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things in writing, it could be very difficult for you to prove that the developer or agent actually did give you any undertaking to vary the standard plan, so it is still far
Track Record
QI Properties has sold over 280 UK residential investment properties at an average discount of 25%. This equates to over £32 million worth of property sold. There are many more that can be viewed on request. Testimonials are also available from investors on request.
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assume from the question that you are living abroad and would require an element of finance in order to purchase a property. Most South African mortgage lenders that look at applications for finance will look for the following: Non-Resident clients not residing or working in South Africa, South African Citizens working abroad, as well as Non Residents purchasing jointly with South African Citizens. There are various criteria required by the lenders and the maximum loan to value is on average 50 percent. Each bank has different
APRIL 2012
Limited Opportunities Available! Email enquiries@qi-properties.co.uk to book a call back
Billy Rautenbach Chief Operating Officer Seeff Atlantic Seaboard, City Bowl, V & A Marina and CBD www.seeff.com
Earlsfield Business Centre, 9 Lydden Road, London, SW18 4LT Tel: +44 (0) 208 875 2070| Fax: +44 (0) 207 160 9333 enquiries@qi-properties.co.uk | www.qi-properties.co.uk Robby Du Toit
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Cape Town: A city with a vision If South African cities are to surf the imminent wave of global investment they need to have finely tuned visions for their future. One example is Cape Town, which through initiatives such as Accelerate Cape Town has reversed a trend of companies leaving the city - and even attracted new companies by DAN SWINHOE
was their identification of the crucial cooperation of the ‘triple helix’ of business, government and academia.” Lundy asserts that in Cape Town a fourth strand, that of the NGO (non-governmental organisation) sector, is equally crucial. One of the initiatives of Accelerate Cape Town is ‘Connect’d Cape Town’ a business-led platform aimed at providing links between local and international businesses with networking events. Keynote speakers at these events have
NOT so long ago, Cape Town wasn’t in good shape. Companies like BP, Old Mutual and Shell were moving their head offices to Johannesburg. The knock-on effect of this trend was that small and medium-sized suppliers were losing large chunks of their business. This trend was largely a matter of perception, with Cape Town seen as a coastal town with tourist potential, but Johannesburg the real economic powerhouse. To reverse the trend, members of the private sector formed “The key lesson learned from an independent Barcelona was their identification initiative called ‘Accelerate Cape of the crucial cooperation of Town (ACT).’ the ‘triple helix’ of business, The goal was to government and academia.” devise a long-term plan, extending included Boris Johnson and Helen to 2030, to make Cape Town a Zille. Connect’d Cape Town is more business-friendly city. This one of the outputs of Vision 2030, plan became known as Vision bringing together stakeholders 2030”, Guy Lundy, CEO of ACT, in the Cape Town region to help explains, “The primary aim of implement sustainable economic Vision 2030 was to provide a growth. coherent business strategy for the Encouraging businesses not to region, both in the public and the relocate seems to be working. private sector.” “Both Philip Morris and Johnson The idea of a long-term vision & Johnson have made strategic takes its cues from the likes of decisions not to leave or close Barcelona and Dubai. “The key their Cape Town operations,” lesson learned from Barcelona
City with Vision Accelerate Cape Town’s Vision: ‘To transform Cape Town into Africa’s Global City, a city of inspiration and innovation.’ 8 targets set out by Accelerate Cape Town to transform Cape Town: Iconic & Emulated | Global African Gateway Creative & Cultural | Green & Beautiful Connected & Vibrant | Welcoming & Caring Safe & Efficient | Educated & Trained Progress: Cape Town has won the bid to be World Design Capital 2014
The Cape Town International Convention Centre has partnered with Accelerate Cape Town to attract business to the Cape.
explains Libby Ferrandi, Marketing Manager for ACT. And the campaign has actually begun to attract more international companies to Cape Town. For example Steinhoff have moved their head office to the Cape and DHL Express have established
Accelerate Cape Town partners with the following organisations with Connect’d Cape Town: Business Western Cape, Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town Tourism, The Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry, The Cape Town Partnership, Wesgro Companies sponsoring Vision 2030: Nedbank, Santam, British American Tobacco, Webber Wentzel, Chevron, Deloitte, Ernst & Young. Websites: www.acceleratecapetown.com www.connectdcapetown.com www.vision2030.co.za
Africa is filled with opportunities. Speak to the experts on how best to manage them.
their sub-Saharan head-offices in Cape Town. The global recession has also had a positive effect. “The financial crisis has significantly changed perceived risk-reward ratios, forcing world markets to look outside the developed world for opportunity,” says Ferrandi. “This has meant that Africa in general, and certainly South Africa, have benefited from increased interest from investors.” Very significantly, the City of
Cape Town has begun developing the ‘Cape Town 2040’ plan. This is an extension of the work done by Vision 2030, and incorporates many of Vision 2030’s goals and ideas Lundy concludes that “our approach of cementing partnerships and working around an agreed vision, can certainly work in other cities. The enquiries we receive from around the world indicate that real progress is being made here.”
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Business: News
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Legally Speaking: Spouse probation
Q
: You recently mentioned in your column that the probationary period for spouses is set to increase. Do you have any news on when this change is set to take place, as it might affect me? : Yes, it seems that the rumours were true. A leaked cabinet letter from UK Home Secretary, Theresa May, to Nick Clegg has revealed some stringent
proposed immigration changes. In the letter a new income of £25,700 per year is proposed for anyone looking to bring a spouse, partner or dependant to the UK from outside the EU, from June 2012. This income threshold is a drastic rise from the current threshold of £13,700. This minimum income threshold is also set to rise with
A
| 17 April – 23 April 2012 | thesouthafrican.com
PROMOTION
every dependant brought in. It is further proposed in the letter that the current probation period for spouses and partners must be increased from two years to five years, before they can apply to live permanently in the UK. BIC would like to advise all clients who want to make use of the family migration route to do so as soon as possible.
JP Breytenbach – Director of Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants Ltd www.bic-immigration.com or info@bic-immigration.com
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Moneygram launches UK online transfer site by STAFF REPORTER LAST Wednesday at a packed press conference at the Hilton Waldorf in London, Moneygram unveiled their new online money transfer site. "While we have the largest 'bricks and mortar' network of money transfer sites in the world, this new website will allow our customers in the UK greater choice as to how they can transfer funds, at comparable, highly competitive rates," said Oluwaseyi Oke of Moneygram. Moneygram is aimed at those who want to transfer money to friends or relatives abroad, but can’t afford the big-business rates banks offer. The service is limited to £650 per transaction and the fees start at £4.50. The site is designed with a very
simple and secure user interface, which not only will save your details for further transactions, but will indicate very clearly any charges you incur before you approve the transfer. The website aims to do transfers in super-fast times (typically within 10 minutes) and notify you when the funds are collected and received. You can now transfer or receive money in 189 countries. Moneygram are quick to allay any fears of the reduction of their street level service. Despite the new online services available, the number of existing branches such as the Post Office, Thomas Cook, Going Places, UAE Exchange, and many other independent businesses will not be reduced. Visit www.moneygram.com or www.moneygram.co.uk
Rand weakens amid renewed Euro worries by STAFF REPORTER THE South African Rand traded between 7.86 and 7.99 to the US Dollar during the period between 9 April and 16 April 2012. The Rand also traded between 12.48 and 12.69 to the British Pound during the same period. The ZAR weakened towards the end of last week with poorer than expected Chinese growth, as well as continuing Euro debt worries coming out of Greece and especially over Spain now. The Rand closed off the week at R7.90 and R12.58 to the US Dollar and Pound respectively, from their previous days close at R7.87 and R12.55. "Along with most other commodity currencies, it has retreated this morning, Standard Bank analysts noted. The hangover
from this morning's data is likely to weigh on the Rand ahead of the weekend, with the bias stacked towards further weakness. Going into the last day of the week, the Rand was expected to follow Thursday’s trend and weaken further. This was partially true, as the Rand slipped a bit against the US Dollar, to finish Friday at R7.93. During Monday morning trading, the Rand crept back over the key R8/1USD threshold, pushed by risk averse investing due to fresh worries over the Euro Zone debt crisis. GBP / ZAR: 12.62 EUR / ZAR: 10.41 USD / ZAR: 7.99 Composed by Matthew Cridge
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thesouthafrican.com | 17 April – 23 April 2012 |
Business: SA Power 100
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Yusuf Timol
Read interviews with other SA POWER 100 achievers... on our website: TheSouthAfrican.com/Business/SAPower100
Minister Economic at the South African High Commission
by GORDON GLYN-JONES
BULLET BIOGRAPHY • Born: Cape Town • School: Bishops • Tertiary: UWC, MBA Stellenbosch Business School • Career trajectory: • New Africa Technology Holdings, Business Analyst • Kaiser & Associates, Principal consultant, economic development projects in South Africa, Dubai and India. • Director in the South African Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in 2003, ‘ICT and Electronics’ industry. • ‘Economic Counsellor’ Foreign Service, the South African Embassy in Iran, establishing DTI office in Tehran. • Currently ‘Minister Economic’ at the South African High Commission, a position he assumed in June 2011.
How have you found adjusting to the UK? I have been lucky enough to take delegations all over the world and experience many cultures and business styles. You develop quite a healthy world view in the process, so adjusting to the UK has been relatively easy for me. My wife lived here for many years so it was like coming home for her. You've been in the post of Minister Economic since June last year, what's the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? What is really tough is trying to get UK business people who have never engaged with South Africa to realise the extent of its maturity. Often when I do convince them to go and see, they are surprised and half of my job is done. How much time do you spend calming the nerves of international investors who hear disturbing headlines about the South African political landscape? We have a fair number of businesses looking to engage
partners in South Africa who do so with apprehension. Our country is a democracy, which has evolved significantly and continues to evolve. I keep on telling people, it is my country and I have never felt that it is more politically secure than right now. We're honest and I expect the business community to respect and appreciate that honesty. Is nationalisation essentially off the cards at the moment? There was a recent government report to answer the questions of the masses who wanted to know if we should go down that route or not. The report found two reasons why they cannot afford to follow this road. Firstly, it would cost the economy about R3 trillion. We would have to pay out all the mining houses if we nationalised the mines, and we cannot afford that as a country. Secondly,
we could not follow the route of countries who nationalised and told the multi-nationals to leave, because we'd lose face in the international investment environment. We need the investment to create more jobs. At the moment there's a resurgence of energy within the UK SA business community, which you have responded to very positively: in economic terms how is this community viewed by the government? The office here is not resourced adequately to cover the entire scope and we focus on UK businesses; we have a small team here, five people within the commercial section. However, since I've come to the office I've made an effort to try to understand the extent of the South African British community and how we can work with them, because in the past they have not been duly recognised. The community can also come to me saying: "This is how we want to be assisted." How can they engage with you most effectively? We are currently setting up a separate website from the commercial section of the commission, and we're going to incorporate social media to have a community that will be able to interact very easily. We shall take our cues from there. If you'd like to achieve one thing in your four years as minister, what would it be? What would be great is if we could land a few very big sustainable projects in the oil and gas industry. Right now we are trying to position South Africa as the regional service hub for the oil and gas industry, which is booming in West
Njabulo Madlala
John Paul de Freitas
Africa and picked up significant discoveries in East Africa, Mozambique, Uganda and eastern Africa. We'd also like to attract UK companies that are experts in offshore oil technology, and have thought of setting up in Cape Town. There have been significant shale gas discoveries in the Karoo area and Shell is playing a major role. At the moment they are doing the environmental impact assessment, but as a country we cannot afford not to exploit this resource.
What about your future Minister of Finance at some point? No! I wouldn't want any other job because I would never see my family. After this I want to return to SA, as I've spent enough time outside to have a good global view. At the moment the Department has very limited expertise in oil and gas, so while I'm here I'd like to gain experience and make a contribution at the policy level back in South Africa. But you never know, nine months ago I was in a different country and now I'm in the UK.
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Business: Careers
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THE GRAFT IS GREENER Justin Doherty Stock trader
by PAUL HARRISON
Born: Cape Town How long in the UK: Since October 2011 Mottos: “Sleep is for the weak” and “Utilise all opportunities to increase success”.
How did you get into forex trading? After school I studied fitness and health and became a personal trainer before deciding to pursue a commerce career. I was doing my articles as a chartered accountant before moving to London and have now switched to a more finance-orientated approach, doing investment trading and financial management. In addition, recognising the flexible and unusual trading hours, I have taken up a contract as an area manager for fitness agents in central London. This diversity fits in with my lifestyle so essentially from early morning to late afternoon I concentrate on my Forex trading and after that I help the fitness agents set up their businesses and advise them on all aspects of running a successful enterprise. I get great satisfaction out of both endeavours for different reasons. First, the stock/Forex trading is constantly challenging me to improve my skills so that I can enhance my expertise and become a highly successful trader, while the
management contract allows me to guide and assist others to build their own businesses. Does being South African help you in your work? I do think that in the United Kingdom it helps coming from South Africa - our approach to business is more direct and our approach to personal interactions is very straightforward, unlike the more reserved British. In my experience this intrigues the English and provides openings to take up new opportunities. Do you have any future goals? I have set myself both short and long term goals. The short term goals relate to achieving the returns I have set myself for the coming year. In the longer term I want to diversify into new businesses, potentially the property market as well as invest in some small businesses to ensure different income streams. My aim is to eventually return to Cape Town. Being in a different environment has helped me focus my goals and find new opportunities that would otherwise not have ordinarily appeared to me.
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thesouthafrican.com | 17 April – 23 April 2012 |
Business: Classifieds
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| 17 April – 23 April 2012 | thesouthafrican.com
Travel
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Big Five safari in KwaZulu-Natal Nambiti, a private game reserve on the edge of the Zululand escarpment, is a rare find for wildlife spotters and history buffs alike
by MARIANNE GRAY THINKING of heading home to South Africa for a little holiday and, perhaps, a safari? The first safari places that spring to mind are Kruger if you’re on a budget, or Londolozi if you’re rolling in it, but there is also a gem of a reserve in KwaZulu-Natal called Nambiti, which comes as a gift from the gods of wildlife. A private game reserve, it is made up of six former cattle farms on the edge of the Zululand escarpment in the heart of the Anglo-Zulu and Boer War battlefields. If you get bored with discovering the difference between a red hartebeest and a tsessebe and can’t be bothered to pick up the binocs to see yet another twotoed, double-breasted purple tit in breeding plumage, you could go and see where Isandlwana, Rorke’s Drift and Blood River battles
were fought or check out the Elandslaagte military cemetery. Nambiti, at the top of the Tugela River, has 10 camps. It is in a malaria-free zone, and there are 700 species of trees, 280 different kinds of birds, the Big Five, the small five and about 50 other species. Their safaris are definitely not flat-out Ferrari Safaris – the only time we bombed around like speed-freaks was when a very grumpy male buffalo, covered in mud and snorting like a maniac, set his sights on our Jeep. Apparently he’d been eating datura, a hallucinogenic plant which turns their eyes red and makes them freak out. Tales of what he’d done to the general manager’s bakkie earlier that day were enough for us not to linger. This particular buffalo had recently caused the people at Nambiti to build an electric-fenced
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paddock for small private planes to be parked as he had chewed the wings off several. Apparently, there is no insurance against a buffalo eating your plane and he’s just one of the many buffaloes who herd around this airstrip. Nambiti Falls Lodge is the smallest of all the camps and is a rare find. Originally a family homestead, it has a pool and the chef was once chief chef at Meikles Hotel in Harare. Zebra, buck, elephants and rhinos graze all day on the other side of the surrounding fence and sometimes at night the leopards and the lions come close enough to hear their tummies rumble. This lodge is hidden in more than 20,000 acres of plains and bush held in trust for conservation. On the twice-daily game drives you pass through verdant savannah, thorny acacia woodland, along the ravines of the Sundays River and over landscapes that look like Pierneef paintings. Gorgeous! When I was there in January they had a special rate of R995 per person per day, all in. That’s 80 quid to you and me. It would be cheap at twice the price. How to get there: Nambiti is 23 kms east of Ladysmith. By car: From Johannesburg: 3.5 hours. From Durban: 2.5 hours. www.nambitifalls.co.za
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thesouthafrican.com | 17 April – 23 April 2012 | Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/thesouthafrican
Zimbabwe Community
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The Gentleman wows London The stars came out for the UK premiere of Zimbabwean film The Gentleman in Leicester Square on 24 March
by MARY ISOKARIARI THE Prince Charles Theatre was swamped with curious spectators as I arrived at the London premiere of Zimbabwean action film The Gentleman in Leicester Square on Saturday 24 March. Photographers hovered beside the red carpet taking pictures of the cast that included Presley Chweneyagae of Tsotsi fame and Munya Chidzonga from Big
Brother Africa as well as director and writer Joe Njagu and executive producer Sylvia Chimhina. Among the crowd of Zimbabweans were prominent figures from the business and entertainment worlds, and film fans eagerly awaiting the film. The premiere signified how far the Zimbabwean film industry has progressed. Where other productions have failed in the
The Gentleman stars Presley Chweneyagae (left) and Munya Chidzonga (right).
past due to the lack of support, The Gentleman has overcome this obstacle, as the first Zimbabwean movie to ever premiere in the UK. The Gentleman tells the story of Tawana, a soon-to-be father whose life is turned upside down when his twin brother Takunda resurfaces after eight years of silence. Burdened with his brother’s criminal past and vengeance, Tawana is also faced with financial worries, throwing him into a web of corruption and deception. The film began slowly, taking a while to build up the story and introduce the conflict and turmoil around the two brothers. A few scenes, such as the one between Mr Rogers - played by Zimbabwean business tycoon Philip Chiyangwa - and his receptionist, could have easily being left on the cutting room floor. The fight scene between Tawana and Takunda lacked the impact needed to make it more convincing. However, Munya
Chidzonga played the role of both brothers well, switching from good twin to bad twin with ease. At times the sound was inaudible, making it easy to miss the odd joke. However, the picture quality was good, with dramatic
camera techniques capturing the action elements of the film. Overall, The Gentleman is a decent effort, clearly demonstrating what Zimbabweans can achieve when they come together.
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Oriel past pupils reunite in Wimbledon byJENNIFER MUNRO THE Slug in Wimbledon was the venue for a gathering of more than 40 ex-pupils of Oriel school for girls and Oriel school for boys in Harare, Zimbabwe. Some of the guests had not seen each other for forty years! The function was organised by Shirley Davel via Facebook.
0808 168 2600 Tracey Edwards, Jane Willis, Colette Capell and Annick Belsky.
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Ali Petersen, Richard Bell and Liz Bell.
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Lionel Davel, Tom Wall and Peter Huges.
Mike Banfield and Shirley Davel.
Anne Wright and Susan Wolsey.
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29/03/2012 14:16
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| 17 April – 23 April 2012 | thesouthafrican.com
Sport
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TEAM SA @ THE LONDON OLYMPICS BY NICOLE HOLGATE
KATHRYN Meaklim, a 22-yearold from Kloof, won the women's 200m individual medley guest event at the British Gas Swimming Championships in London on 5 March. This week she competes in her final trials to ensure qualification for the Olympic team. How long have you been interested in swimming? Since I was very young: 11 or 12 years old. It’s been one of my dreams for a long time. At 13 I went abroad to compete, so for almost nine years now I’ve been competing. You meet so many awesome people and we all love swimming, and travelling. What events do you compete in? I swim the 200m and 400m individual medley, which is all strokes combined. There’s a qualifying time you have to beat, which I managed last month in the British nationals. I just missed it in the 200m medley, so am a bit unhappy about that.
Why the medley? I chose the medley because I wasn’t particularly brilliant at one stroke! I decided to do the medley because it's always changing, and I enjoy changing strokes, it’s a lot more interesting than one stroke. Why did you come to London to train? Mainly for the Olympic Pool. The squad wanted to check it out, and to get used to it and the feel of the pool, the atmosphere. The surroundings are awesome. What did you think of the Olympic park? Obviously the site isn’t finished yet, but the Olympic pool is awesome, and English people love sport so much so the atmosphere is going to be insane. I know all the South Africans are keen to come over here and do our country proud as well. How much training are you doing at the moment? We train anywhere from three to five hours a day, usually for about two and a half hours in the pool,
and then an hour and a half of land training a day. My squad don’t train on Sundays. But at the moment we’re preparing for our nationals from 16 to 22 April, and the South African rules state we have to qualify in 400m there. At the end of the day if you don’t do the nationals, you’re not going to the Olympics. You also have to do the qualifying time twice. Do you stick to a special diet? I'm supposed to! With the amount of exercise we do, you can eat quite a lot and not worry about weight. I eat quite a lot, I love food! Some people follow a strict diet, but when you're training really hard and your body wants something, I think you should give it what it wants. Where are your favourite places for competing? I get to see a lot of places: America and Rio were awesome. Meets in Australia were great because they love swimming so much, so it’s one of my favourite places to
Kathryn Meaklim Swimmer
Kathryn Meaklim at the British Gas Swimming Championships. Photo by SWpix.com
compete. What are your plans for the next few months until the Olympics? There are our SA Nationals in April, then Europe for some meets, then the SA team will be based in Monaco until the Olympics. In a few months we'll be looking to do some sightseeing, all the
castles and stuff. I mainly like to shop; we've been eyeing up the big shopping centre opposite the Olympic site! Maybe when we get back to London, a bit of shopping will be nice! Read more Olympic profiles on www.thesouthafrican.com/sport
thesouthafrican.com | 17 April – 23 April 2012 | Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/thesouthafrican
MIND THE RUCK ROB FLUDE
Schalk who?
CAST your mind back to Saturday 25 February 2012, to Newlands, the Stormers against the Hurricanes. One of South Africa’s most popular rugby figures, Schalk Burger, damaged ligaments in his left knee after twisting his leg in a tackle in the 14th minute of the opening fixture. Stormers fans instantly held their breath; last year a horror run of injuries threatened to derail the team’s campaign and probably led to them losing momentum and stumbling at the semi-final stage. It was a horrid coincidence that the indefatigable Stormers’ skipper had injured his knee ligaments in his team’s opening Super Rugby match in two consecutive years. Talk about wretched luck. Chester Williams, the fabled icon and former Springbok wing, also suffered similar ill-fate when he tore his ACL in the first game of the 1996 season and then in 1997, on his return in the season opener, did exactly the same to his other knee. Chessie bravely made it back to the playing field eventually, donning the Bok jersey again in 2000. Initial estimates were that Burger would be absent for four to six weeks, which, in a 21-week long tournament, is not that grim. However, the conclusion of that six week period was only at the midway point of the Stormers’ tour, so it would be silly to risk flying a non-match-fit Burger across all those time zones, only for him to play off the bench. Sensibly, his layoff was extended, and he will grace the Newlands turf again for the Stormers’ game against the Cheetahs on 12 May, equating to an 11-week layoff – probably much-needed for the Springbok flanker who seems to play well above a pain threshold at which mere mortals (aka his peers) would be wincing. He would also have been grateful to spend some time with his wife, who is expecting Mini-Burger in September. What’s startling is that Schalk’s name has hardly even been an afterthought since that potentially fateful day in February. His replacement, young firebrand ball-poacher Siya Kolisi, has been
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but hey, how can we be blamed a revelation in his debut Super when the new kid on the block is Rugby season, with his tackle providing such regular joy and count fifth on the list with an when the Stormers sit second on incredible average of 15 per match, the log? and a high rate of turnovers, many It does make one wonder if this of which have resulted in penalties could be for the the end of Cape side. People have seemingly the road for Burger’s been oblivious as to Burger. His replacement long-time as captain, Schalk’s return date, or back-row Jean de indeed how his rehab is buddy Juan Villiers, even going. It’s almost as if Smith has has also already led the side he has been forgotten. canned this more than season and is toying with the idea admirably. of hanging up his battle-weary People have seemingly been boots permanently. Something tells oblivious as to Schalk’s return me otherwise for Burger though, date, or indeed how his rehab is and I for one can’t wait to see the even going. It’s almost as if he Incredible Schalk once again being has been forgotten, given Kolisi’s the human wrecking-ball we adore breathtaking form. It does show so much. what fickle supporters we are,
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17 April – 23 April 2012
TEAM SA @ THE OLYMPICS: KATHRYN MEAKLIM
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NEWS FOR GLOBAL SOUTH AFRICANS
MIND THE RUCK: SCHALK WHO?
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MORE SPRINGBOKS IN UK RUGBY TEAMS
Sharks lock Alistair Hargreaves joins Saracens while Cheetahs no 8 Ashley Johnson joins London Wasps Alistair Hargreaves signed a twoyear deal with Saracens.
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by STAFF REPORTER rugby hemisphere already swollen with South African players will be graced with more this summer as two 25-yearolds join London Premiership sides. Alistair Hargreaves will sign a two-year deal with Saracens and will leave the Sharks at the end of June – just in time for the start of the 2012/13 Aviva Premiership season. The former ‘Baby Bok’ skipper played for the Springboks in the 2011 Tri-Nations against the All Blacks and the Wallabies. A foot injury has prevented him from proving his worth in this season’s Super Rugby campaign. Hargreaves said he was looking forward to joining Saracens. “Everybody in South African rugby knows there is something special happening at Saracens, and I can’t wait to get stuck in and make a contribution to the continuing development of the club. This is a fantastic opportunity for me at a crucial stage of my rugby career.” Mark McCall, Saracens Director of Rugby, added, “Alistair has a fantastic pedigree in SA rugby, and we are confident he will flourish in our environment.” Free State Cheetahs and ex-Springbok no 8 Ashley Johnson has signed a two-year contract with Aviva Premiership side London
Wasps. Johnson, who started his career as hooker before moving to the back row, has been a constant in the Cheetahs Super 15 and Currie Cup franchises for the last few seasons. His excellent performances for the Cheetahs in the last few campaigns earned him his first Springbok cap in 2009. He went on to earn two more international caps in the 2011 TriNations but was unlucky not to be selected for the World Cup squad the same year. Johnson, a crowd favourite down in Bloemfontein, has been sparingly used by Naka Drotske this season and will look to further his career overseas, a choice which will come as a blow to the Cheetahs who have already seen inspirational skipper Juan Smith sidelined for the season. Johnson is one of four new signings made by Wasps which include Welsh Grand Slam winner Stephen Jones, fellow Welshman Will Taylor and former England youth tighthead Phil Swainston. The signings come as a surprise to most people due to the financial difficulties London Wasps currently find themselves in. Wasps are in grave danger of going into administration following the breakdown of takeover talks. Johnson will join his new team at the end of this year’s Super Rugby tournament.
Ashley Johnson will join the London Wasps.
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