By Selloane Ntshonyane
While many support the decision to continue funding the R370 Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant for the unemployed, they say that raising VAT will hurt poor families and small businesses even more.
They believe the government should focus on creating jobs and building industries — not just raising taxes.
“I rely on that R370. It may not be much, but it helps me pay rent or buy food,” said a community care worker.
One small business owner said the VAT increase would hit her customers hard.
“I sell my products for R30, but even that’s already too much for some people. With this increase, I’ll have to charge more — and people simply can’t afford it,” she said.
Another resident said: “The government is punishing the working class. Everything is already taxed, and this just makes us poorer.”
Some compared the new increase to the previous jump from 14% to 15% — which many are still struggling to adjust to.
“The 1% increase will not fix our problems. It just makes life harder for those who are already battling to survive,” said one man.
While they welcome support for the unemployed, many say what they really need are sustainable jobs and long-term solutions — not more tax burdens.
Pictured above: Soweto residents say a 1% VAT hike will hurt the poor more than anyone.�
Image source: Supplied
