Barbara Ludman SA 98-99: SOUTH AFRICA AT A GLANCE (Editors Inc)
This slim little volume is a publishing success for its owners – former Star editors Harvey Tyson and Richard Steyn; Rex Gibson, last editor of the Rand Daily Mail; and George Trail, a former United States diplomat. This is its fourth edition; there are plenty of advertisements, to keep the cost low, and a note in the front points out that the book sells worldwide and is used by government departments, NGOs and corporations.
Such organisations will find it extremely useful, as it gives a quick overview of everything from the state of the nation to economic indicators generally, South African public holidays and useful phrases (like “howzit” and “bonsella”. It offers the year just past in review, important dates in South African history, a brief look at each province, a glance at major industries and some issues (land reform, safety and security) and much more.
It has probably been designed for the overseas businessman looking to invest here: the section on the economy is extensive, with a table on comparative corporate tax rates (we’re pretty average).
The book is full to bursting with colourful graphs and some amazing statistics, like average rainfall in Johannesburg (more than London, but restricted to 80 days a year) and it’s up to date; the Maputo Corridor is mentioned under “infrastructure” and this year’s Budget is explained.
Although the book begins with a disclaimer (the views expressed are those of the editors and not organisations that use this book for promotional purposes), there’s nothing particularly controversial in it. All in all, it’s the sort of reference book one would expect from editors who spent so many years in the Argus/ Independent group.