In this Issue
“Our Heritage. Our Future. Our Difference.” This Heritage Month Special Edition of Accountancy SA explores how the legacies we inherit shape the institutions, businesses and communities we leave behind. Through stories of leadership, governance and public sector transformation, the issue examines how purposeful action today creates a sustainable legacy for tomorrow.
The cover story,“Heritage in Action: Strategy, Governance and the Sustainable Legacy We Build,” profiles Craig Lai King CA(SA), whose career spans development finance, infrastructure investment, sustainability and entrepreneurship. Drawing on his experiences across Africa and internationally, he reflects on the importance of governance, long-term investment, environmental stewardship and developing future talent. The key message is that legacy is built through intentional decisions that create lasting value beyond immediate returns.
The Profile feature,“Holding the Door Open,” follows Cyril Madiba CA(SA), whose appointment as CEO of the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation brings his journey full circle from bursary recipient to leader. His story highlights the power of opportunity, mentorship and giving back, demonstrating how individual success can be leveraged to create wider social impact.
The Feature article,“Rebuilding Trust Starts with Better Governance,” explores the role of ethical leadership, accountability and strong institutions in restoring confidence in South Africa’s public and private sectors. Through the work of the Wiseman Nkuhlu Centre for Innovation, Thought Leadership and Governance, the article emphasises how professional integrity and governance excellence can strengthen institutional resilience and economic development.
The edition’s Focus section,“Public Sector Reform,” examines South Africa’s journey towards building capable, accountable and citizen-focused institutions. Contributors explore procurement reform, public finance professionalisation, municipal transformation, digital innovation, artificial intelligence and performance-driven governance. Collectively, the articles argue that sustainable reform requires moving beyond compliance towards implementation, capability and measurable public value.
The Recommend section,“Improving Your Firm’s Profitability,” provides practical insights for accounting firms seeking to enhance performance, strengthen profitability and increase long-term business value through strategic planning, productivity improvements and effective performance management.
Overall, the September issue presents heritage as more than a reflection on the past. It is a call to action to build stronger institutions, invest in people, lead with integrity and create sustainable value. The edition reinforces that the choices leaders make today become the legacy future generations inherit.
The issue concludes with Integritax, featuring expert commentary on major tax, VAT and regulatory developments, including the ABSA v CSARS judgment, Voluntary Disclosure Programme requirements, VAT implications of the creator economy, provisional tax challenges, residential property allowances, international tax developments and emerging compliance considerations affecting finance and tax professionals.
