For PPL training the Trevor Thom books are an excellent reference. I used the AVEX notes for the COM and ATPL and they were sufficiently detailed to pass the exams without attending any lectures (that was 11 years ago mind you - couldn't comment on how the syllabus has changed since then).
I would suggest once you have decided which school to do your training at, that you contact them directly - they may have their own notes or preferred reference material.
Lastly - when considering where you do your training an important factor is where you will eventually fly. A JAR licence is relevant to Europe, but many countries in Asia for instance only require a ICAO compliant licence (which the SA licence is). If your intention is to work in SA to build hours you might come up against work permit problems. However, there is hour building work available in other countries in Africa such as Tanzania, Namibia, Botswana etc. were the work permit is less of an issue.
Good luck - SA is a great place to learn how to fly.