Parliament’s portfolio committee on higher education and training has requested that all 26 institutions of higher learning submit updated statistics on employment of foreign national academics.

This follows outrage over the Central University of Technology (CUT) revealing that it employs more foreign academics than South Africans during their meeting with the committee in April.

In a letter dated May 2, 2025, addressed to Minister of Higher Education and Training Nobuhle Nkabane, the committee requested that all universities make submissions on the matter by May 21.

The committee wants institutions to provide “detailed background about how many foreign nationals are employed at each university; when were they appointed in their current jobs; breakdown by faculty, department, and administration; country of origin of the foreign academics, including their qualifications”.

Last month the CUT came under fire after it disclosed 15% of its workforce consists of foreign nationals while only 1% of faculty positions are occupied by South Africans from Asian, coloured and white communities. The information prompted public discourse and led to debates about employment equity at institutions of higher learning.

The committee believes that new data is required because the last report was released in 2019.

The Report of the Ministerial Task Team on the Recruitment, Retention and Progression of Black South African Academics, released by the higher education department says the national average for international academic staff across the 26 universities was 11.2% in 2017.

While the overall percentage of international permanent instructional/research staff at universities is 11.5%, varying across ranks, with the highest percentages occurring at senior lecturer (13.3%), associate professor (18.5%) and professor (17.4%) levels.

At the time, CUT was just above the average with 11.8% international academic staff. Wits University employed the most foreign nationals at 25.1%, with UCT and University of Fort Hare (UFH) placed second and third respectively.

The study, however, stresses that further steps should be taken if the reliance on international recruits is a result of inability or reluctance to recruit and retain South African academics.

At least 34% of the international academic staff in South African universities were from Zimbabwe and Nigeria, with Zimbabweans accounting for 25%.

“For UFH and University of Venda, large numbers of the international academics are from Zimbabwe and Nigeria, while UCT and Wits appear to be able to attract academic staff from a much wider range of countries,” the report reads.

The report acknowledges that international staff representation adds immense value, but representation needs to be truly broad rather than predominantly from a few countries.

“When the main reason for international staff recruitment is not a purposeful and reasonable internationalisation agenda, but rather a result of an inability to attract, recruit or develop local academics, then the challenges need to be fully understood and addressed,” it reads.

It then raises concerns about recruitment practices that result in disproportionate representation of international staff from one country in specific departments at some universities.

Rather than transform the sector, these companies began bleeding it. Generation capacity hovered between 4,000 and 5,000 megawatts, quite laughable for a country of over 200 million people. Transmission and distribution remained abysmal. Yet, consumers were slammed with arbitrary bills, especially those still caught in the dragnet of estimated billing. Most communities had to contribute money to buy transformers, electric poles, and cables, items that should rightfully be provided by ‘privatised’ DisCos in exchange for their tariffs.

In essence, Nigerians were paying for their own power infrastructure, maintaining it, and still getting blackouts as a reward. The so-called DisCos became nothing more than rent-collecting entities with zero accountability.
A proper metering system is the backbone of a transparent and fair electricity market. But in Nigeria, it has become a game of perpetual pilot schemes and moving goalposts. The Meter Asset Provider, MAP, programme was supposed to address the metering gap, which stands at over 50% nationwide. Yet, years later, millions of consumers still rely on estimated billing, the euphemism for legalised extortion.
Consumers are charged thousands of naira monthly for power they never consumed. Complaints to DisCos are often met with disdain or silence. Even when meters are procured, they are riddled with software issues, mysterious “debt” accumulation on prepaid meters, high tariffs, and unexplained units disappearing like ghosts in the night.

In 2024, the government introduced a new electricity pricing regime, classifying consumers into bands, A through E, with A representing those who supposedly enjoy 20+ hours of power daily and E representing those with four hours or less. On paper, this looked like a clever mechanism to subsidise low-income areas and ensure targeted development. In practice, it has become another bare-faced racket.
Many consumers placed in Band A zones do not enjoy 20 hours of electricity, yet they are required to pay through their noses the heavy unconscionable tariffs for phantom power. With tariffs reaching as high as 225 per kilowatt-hour, comparable to or exceeding some parts of Europe, the irony couldn’t be thicker:
Citizens in darkness paying world-class prices for a stone-age service.
The social contract is broken, and the people have adapted but at a steep cost to health, economy, and dignity.
The rot in Nigeria’s electricity sector is systemic, and cosmetic tweaks like the band system cannot fix it. What’s needed is a surgical overhaul that prioritises transparency, accountability, and consumer justice.
First, the fraudulent privatisation process must be reviewed. Where necessary, licences should be revoked, and new firms with technical competence and performance-based contracts should be allowed entry.

Second, the metering gap must be closed within a defined, enforceable timeline. The must be immediate rollout of free prepaid meters for all households. No Nigerian should be subjected to estimated billing after 2025. Technology exists to achieve this if political will is present.
Third, the transmission grid still under government control must be expanded and modernised. Without this, even increased generation will mean little.
Fourth, the regulatory bodies, NERC, REA, etc., must be made independent of political and business influence. Their primary allegiance should be to the consumer, not the cartel.

Yes, it is absolutely possible to operate more than one business in South Africa—both for South African citizens and foreign nationals. However, the process and legal requirements depend on several factors, including business registration, ownership structure, tax compliance, and, for foreign nationals, their visa or permit conditions.

This detailed explanation outlines the legal framework, visa regulations, business structures, and key considerations when operating multiple businesses in South Africa.

1. Legal Framework for Operating Multiple Businesses

In South Africa, businesses are governed by the following acts and regulatory authorities:

• Companies Act, 2008 (Act No. 71 of 2008): Establishes rules for registering and operating companies.

• CIPC (Companies and Intellectual Property Commission): Regulates company registrations and filings.

• South African Revenue Service (SARS): Ensures tax compliance and VAT registration.

• Labour Laws: Govern employee relations, wages, and conditions.

• Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC): Oversees compliance with sector-specific regulations.

Multiple Business Ownership

• An individual or legal entity (such as a company or trust) can own multiple businesses, either as separate legal entities or divisions under one company.

• These businesses can operate in different industries or the same sector.

• Each business may be required to have separate registrations for tax, VAT, and employment compliance depending on its structure.

2. Business Structures for Multiple Businesses

(a) Separate Legal Entities (Multiple Companies)

• Each business is registered as a separate company (e.g., Pty Ltd) with its own registration number and legal identity.

• Suitable for businesses operating in different industries or those needing distinct branding and financial accounts.

• Offers limited liability protection and tax benefits, but requires separate annual filings with CIPC and tax returns with SARS.

(b) Holding Company and Subsidiaries

• A holding company (parent company) owns subsidiary companies, which operate independently but are connected by ownership.

• This structure allows businesses to share resources while keeping operations distinct.

• Ideal for scaling businesses or expanding into new sectors without forming entirely unrelated entities.

(c) Single Company with Multiple Divisions

• One legal entity operates multiple divisions under its umbrella.

• Each division can have separate branding and operations, but profits and taxes are consolidated under the parent company’s tax profile.

• Easier to manage but may lack financial and legal separation, making it riskier in cases of liability claims.

3. Foreign Nationals and Multiple Businesses

Foreign nationals must adhere to immigration laws to operate multiple businesses in South Africa. The following scenarios explain how this can be done:

(a) Business Visa Holders

Foreigners on a business visa can establish and operate only the business specified in their visa application. However:

• They can amend their visa to include additional businesses by submitting a new business plan and proving they meet investment and employment criteria for each business.

• Alternatively, they can apply for a separate business visa for each new venture.

Key Requirements for Business Visa Amendments:

• Minimum investment of R5 million (unless waived by the Department of Home Affairs).

• Proof that at least 60% of employees in the new business are South African citizens or permanent residents.

• A feasibility study showing the viability of the new business.

(b) Permanent Residents or Work Visa Holders

• Foreigners with permanent residence in South Africa are treated the same as citizens and can operate multiple businesses without visa restrictions.

• Foreigners on work visas (e.g., general work visa or critical skills visa) must convert to a business visa to establish or own businesses.

4. Tax and Compliance Requirements

(a) Tax Registrations

• Each business must be registered with SARS for income tax and possibly VAT if annual turnover exceeds R1 million.

• Separate businesses must submit independent tax returns unless operating under a holding company structure.

(b) Financial Records

• Maintain separate accounting records for each business.

• Prepare annual financial statements and file them with CIPC where applicable.

(c) Employment Compliance

• Each business must register with:

1. UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund) for employee benefits.

2. COIDA (Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act) for workplace insurance.

3. PAYE (Pay-As-You-Earn) for employee tax deductions.

5. Practical Examples of Multiple Business Ownership

Scenario 1: Single Entrepreneur with Separate Companies

A foreign entrepreneur opens a restaurant under a Pty Ltd structure and later decides to open a clothing store.

• They register two independent legal entities and manage them separately.

• Each business has unique tax profiles and financial statements.

Scenario 2: Parent Company with Subsidiaries

A South African IT consultancy establishes a parent company and creates subsidiaries for software development and hardware sales.

• Profits are consolidated at the holding company level.

• Subsidiaries have operational independence but share branding and administration resources.

6. Challenges of Operating Multiple Businesses

1. Administrative Burden:

o Separate businesses require multiple registrations, tax filings, and compliance audits, which can be costly and time-consuming.

2. Visa Limitations for Foreigners:

o Foreigners on a business visa must comply with investment and employment criteria for each business, increasing costs and delays.

3. Risk Management:

o Operating unrelated businesses under one entity can expose all divisions to legal risks if one business faces lawsuits or insolvency.

4. Labour Compliance:

o Employing workers across multiple businesses requires strict adherence to South African labour laws, including contracts, benefits, and workplace safety regulations.

7. Conclusion

Yes, it is possible to operate more than one business in South Africa, whether as separate legal entities, subsidiaries, or divisions under a single company.

For South African citizens and permanent residents, the process is straightforward, while foreign nationals face additional visa requirements. Foreigners holding a business visa may need to amend their visa or apply for a new one to include additional businesses.

Proper tax registration, labour law compliance, and financial management are essential when operating multiple businesses to avoid penalties and legal complications. Consulting a legal advisor or immigration consultant is recommended to navigate these requirements effectively.

How can we help you , please email us to info@samigration.com or whatsapp message me on: +27 82 373 8415, where are you now? check our website : www.samigration.com

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South Africans respond to Donald Trump's claims about Afrikaner refugees.

Forty-nine Afrikaners departed South Africa for the United States on Sunday, May 11.

US president Donald Trump repeatedly said that this group was fleeing racial persecution in the country and would welcome them into the US with open arms.

This unprecedented process, however, has seen some South Africans in disbelief over Trump's 'folly'.

Activist Pieter Kriel told IOL that the 49 people who left the country are escaping equality not violence. "You are not refugees; you are just a case study of white flight dressed up as martyrdom," he said. "South Africa didn't send you away, you ran...Violence affects all communities, not just white farmers."

Kriel attributed the nation's violence to a breakdown in safety and rubbished claims of white genocide. "You are part of a 7% minority but somehow still manage to control over 70% of the country's wealth. That is not persecution, that is privilege on a guilt trip.

"If we tried to relocate just half of the Afrikaans population, it would take decades and billions in logistics and you'd still culturally homeless in a country that doesn't want your apartheid baggage. You're not brave. You're not victims. You're scared of a world where you don't get to be in charge."

*David, a man from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal told IOL that Trump speaks without thinking of consequences nor investigating whether claims are true.

"I don't think much of what he says can be taken seriously. He just says things to get a rise out of people, without thinking it through properly. I'm hoping that the people here in South Africa don't take him seriously."

The founder of Amerikaners, an informational platform for those who want to resettle in the US, Sam Busa, disputed the numbers of those who are planning to 'flee'.

"Just Amerikaners has a database of 42,000 who will be going, and that does not include the people who have expressed interest outside of our network. We expect many more to follow. Our feedback is that the vast majority of South Africans have taken a wait-and-see approach, saying they will apply when the information about the programme becomes clearer," said Busa.

However, a woman from Durban called Trump is both a purveyor and a victim of disinformation.

"He has sown a lot of disinformation in the country. Farmers are not attacked on such a big scale as he is implying. He is stirring up unnecessary trouble for the country. The grass is not greener on the other side. They will find out when they get there," she said.

The Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation stated that the resettlement of South Africans in the United States under the pretext of "refugees" is completely political in nature and is intended to bring South Africa's constitutional democracy into question.

"We reiterate that allegations of discrimination are unfounded. The South African Police Service statistics on farm-related crimes do not support allegations of violent crime targeted at farmers generally or any particular race.

"There are sufficient structures available within South Africa to address concerns of discrimination. Moreover, even if there are allegations of discrimination, it is our view that these do not meet the threshold of persecution required under domestic and international refugee law," the ministry said in a statement.

examines whether utilizing the services of a professional immigration agency offers advantages during the retired visa application process. Below is an in-depth analysis.

1. Understanding the Retired Visa Application Process

The retired visa application process requires compliance with South African immigration laws and regulations. The process includes:

• Completing detailed application forms.

• Compiling and submitting supporting documentation.

• Meeting financial and medical requirements.

• Dealing with South Africa's Department of Home Affairs (DHA), which can have variable processing times and strict requirements.

Even though applicants can apply on their own, the complexity of the process makes many consider professional assistance.

2. Role of an Immigration Agency

An immigration agency specializes in assisting clients with visa and residency applications. Their services often include:

1. Pre-Assessment: Assessing the applicant’s eligibility for the retired visa.

2. Document Preparation: Guiding applicants on the required documents and ensuring accuracy.

3. Compliance: Ensuring all submissions meet legal and regulatory requirements.

4. Submission and Follow-Up: Managing the application process with DHA or South African consulates abroad.

5. Problem Resolution: Handling potential complications, such as delays or rejected applications.

3. Benefits of Using an Immigration Agency

Here’s why it might be beneficial to use an immigration agency:

A. Expert Knowledge

• Immigration agencies are well-versed in South Africa’s Immigration Act and regulations.

• They stay updated on policy changes that could affect visa applications, such as changes to financial thresholds or documentation requirements.

B. Time Efficiency

• Agencies streamline the process by ensuring applications are complete and error-free, reducing the likelihood of delays or rejections.

• They manage communication with DHA, which can save the applicant significant time.

C. Navigating Bureaucracy

• Dealing with DHA or South African embassies can be challenging due to inefficiencies and backlogs. Agencies often have experience navigating these issues effectively.

D. Reducing Risk of Rejection

• Visa rejections are often due to incomplete documentation, errors, or failure to meet specific criteria. Agencies mitigate this risk by ensuring all requirements are met.

E. Personalized Guidance

• Agencies provide tailored advice, such as alternative options for meeting financial requirements (e.g., proving a lump sum vs. monthly income).

• They guide applicants on additional endorsements, such as the ability to work or study if applicable.

F. Support for Foreign Applicants

• Non-South African nationals may find the process particularly complex due to unfamiliarity with local laws, language barriers, or challenges in obtaining South African police clearances. Agencies provide critical support in these areas.

4. Potential Drawbacks

While there are significant advantages, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

A. Cost

• Immigration agency services come with additional fees on top of government visa fees. Applicants need to weigh this cost against the benefits provided.

B. Reliability of the Agency

• Not all agencies operate at the same level of professionalism. Choosing an unqualified or unethical agency can lead to complications.

C. DIY Alternative

• For applicants who are confident in navigating bureaucratic processes and have straightforward applications, hiring an agency may not be necessary.

5. Key Scenarios Where an Agency is Especially Beneficial

• Complex Financial Documentation: For retirees with diverse income sources (e.g., pensions, annuities, investments), agencies can ensure proper documentation and presentation.

• Past Visa Rejections: Applicants with prior rejections can benefit from professional guidance to address the underlying issues.

• Time Constraints: Applicants on tight timelines benefit from the efficiency and expertise of an agency.

• Language Barriers: Applicants who are not fluent in English may struggle to complete forms or communicate with DHA.

6. How to Choose a Reliable Immigration Agency

• Accreditation: Verify the agency is registered with professional bodies like the Forum of Immigration Practitioners of South Africa (FIPSA).

• Track Record: Research client reviews and testimonials.

• Transparency: Ensure they provide clear information about fees and services.

• Specialization: Choose an agency experienced specifically in retired visa applications.

7. DIY Application vs. Agency Assistance

Aspect DIY Application With Immigration Agency

Cost Lower (only government fees) Higher (agency fees added)

Time Investment High (self-managed) Lower (agency handles process)

Risk of Rejection Higher (errors or incomplete application) Lower (agency ensures compliance)

Knowledge Requirements High (research required) Low (agency provides expertise)

8. Conclusion

Hiring an immigration agency to assist with the retired visa application in South Africa can be highly beneficial, especially for applicants who:

• Are unfamiliar with South African immigration laws.

• Have complex financial situations or limited time.

• Face potential challenges, such as language barriers or past rejections.

The decision ultimately depends on the applicant's comfort with the process, financial capacity to pay for agency services, and willingness to handle the bureaucracy independently. For those seeking a smoother, more efficient process with reduced risks of rejection, engaging a professional immigration agency is a valuable investment.

How can we help you , please email us to info@samigration.com or whatsapp message me on: +27 82 373 8415, where are you now? check our website : www.samigration.com

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Sa Migration Visas

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How can we help you?
Please email us to info@samigration.com
Whatsapp message us on: +27 82 373 8415

Where are you now?
Check our website : www.samigration.com

Please rate us by clinking on this links :
Sa Migration Visas
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