As we start the week, desensitized – is the adjective I think best describes all of us right now. We have taken so many blows this year, and it isn’t surprising at all that the first week of April had many punches lined up. To recap, #JusticeForCwecwe launched us into a heavy news week. The 2025 budget was finally passed, but we will be paying more VAT. On Thursday morning, we all woke up to the 31% tariffs imposed on South African imports by US president Donald Trump.

#JusticeForCwecwe

The rape of 7-year-old Cwecwe, reportedly at her school in the Eastern Cape, has sparked outrage throughout the country. This comes after the victim’s mother went on a podcast to raise awareness and demand justice for her child. It has been 6 months since the mother opened the case and she has been sent from pillar to post allegedly by SAPS.  It is only now after public outrage that the police ministry deployed a specialised police force led by the national commissioner to thoroughly investigate the matter. The investigation continues.

Budget 2025 Passes

Members of Parliament (MPs) voted in favour of passing the National Budget as 194 supported the proposed 0.5% increase in the value-added tax (VAT) while 182 opposed it. According to the South African Revenue Services (SARS), ”This means that from 1 May 2025, all taxable goods or services supplied by vendors, goods imported, as well as certain services supplied by non-residents to residents for non-taxable or private use (imported services), are subject to the VAT rate of 15.5%”

This is still a bone of contention in the government of national unity as major political parties such as the Democratic Alliance are threatening to challenge this budgte vote in court.

Trump imposes 31% Tariffs on South African Goods

In another shocking move but expected, US president Donald Trump imposed 31% tariffs on South African goods. What does this mean? Americans will be paying more for goods imported from South Africa. Ultimately, this means there will be a drop in demand for our goods. This situation will weaken the rand.

CNN reports that Trump has treated Tariffs as an economic magic wand. He believes it can restore America’s manufacturing prowess. He aims to bring foreign nations to heel on key disputes. Tariffs should restore the balance of trade. They are seen as bringing in gobs of money that can help pay off the US deficit. This might also reduce Americans’ tax burdens. This is really about putting America first, but at what cost?

As we reflect on the past chaotic week, it’s clear that we’ve become numb to the constant crises. Each one lands harder than the last. The weight of the #JusticeForCwecwe is immense. I must say, I am proud that South Africans are taking a hard stand against this horrific incident. The rise in VAT, and the tariffs paints a picture of a country already battered and bracing for more. Yet, despite the tumult, there’s a sense of quiet resilience beneath the surface. We’re desensitized, yes. However, we are determined to continue fighting for justice. We are committed to fairness and the well-being of our nation.