South Africa is facing unprecedented challenges, but a spirit of collaboration and unity between the government and organized businesses is helping to overcome obstacles and mobilize resources. This partnership is aimed at fostering inclusive economic growth and job creation across the country.
Successful Collaboration in Response to COVID-19
The successful collaboration between the government and businesses in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has paved the way for more opportunities to work together in addressing South Africa’s challenges.
Priority Areas for Collaboration
Under the oversight of Business for South Africa (B4SA), the CEOs of the country’s largest companies have pledged to pool their skills and resources to address obstacles to economic growth and job creation. These efforts will focus on three priority areas: energy, transport and logistics, and crime and corruption.
Government-Led Committees
These workstreams will be directed through government-led committees, namely the National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM), the National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC), and the Joint Initiative to Fight Crime and Corruption (JICC). The Joint Strategic Operations Committee will oversee these initiatives, ensuring the success of this vital collaboration.
Energy Security
Energy security is at the forefront of this partnership, with NECOM working to close the current energy capacity gap and end load shedding. Business leaders will support these efforts by further capacitating NECOM and developing a national communication plan that is credible, transparent, and bolstered by visible actions.
Transport and Logistics
Efforts in the transport and logistics sector will focus on stabilizing and improving operational performance on key trade corridors. This will involve mobilizing private sector resources and accelerating the implementation of the National Rail Policy. Private sector integration into government initiatives will help develop work plans, deliverables, and timelines.
Fighting Crime and Corruption
In the battle against crime and corruption, the government is working to restore the rule of law by strengthening the Investigating Directorate (ID) in the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and implementing reforms in response to recommendations from various state inquiries. Business leaders will provide support on an arms-length basis, offering expert resources to further capacitate the NPA and the ID. The establishment of the JICC will serve as the delivery mechanism to implement related interventions.
Additional Focus Areas
As the partnership progresses, additional focus areas such as water and infrastructure may be incorporated. Success in these priority interventions will create an environment conducive to economic growth and job creation.
Positive Impact on Stakeholders
The commitment from South African business leaders to contribute their skills and resources to addressing the country’s priorities highlights the importance of this partnership. The collaboration between government and businesses promises to have a significant impact on GDP growth, job creation, and overall confidence among stakeholders.
Shaping a Brighter Future
This new chapter of collaboration between the South African government and organized businesses demonstrates the power of unity in facing the challenges of today. Both government and businesses will continue to explore ways to advance cooperation on the jobs agenda, identifying areas of collaboration or existing programs that can be scaled in the short term. As they work hand in hand, this partnership serves as a shining example of the potential for positive change when stakeholders come together in pursuit of shared goals and a brighter future for all South Africans.
