South Africa strengthens the message that the country and continent is open for business
President Zuma on Thursday 4 June 2015 highlighted at WEF Africa 2015, that a pre-condition required for the growth and development of the continent is a commitment to good governance and constitutional democracy. This will lay the basis for the private sector on the continent and investors, to contribute to national growth and development targets which further contributes to continental growth and development.
South Africa is hosting WEF Africa 2015 under the theme: “Then and Now: Reimagining Africa’s Future.” A future characterised by growth, development and prosperity will be critical to a reimagined Africa.
Team SA on day 2 of WEF Africa 2015 engaged meaningfully and robustly with participants from around the world emphasising that South Africa is open for business.
In this regard, Minister of Tourism Mr Derek Hanekom carried forward the message that South Africa is committed to ensuring an open immigration policy that enables tourists and investors alike to enter the country. The creation of this enabling environment is being addressed by cabinet, as directed by the President, to ensure that the immigration policy takes into account national developmental priorities as well as safety and security of citizens and travelers alike.
Minister of Mineral Resources, Advocate Ngoako Ramathlodi, in a session on the African Mining Vision, reaffirmed South Africa's support for the vision and the extent to which the country has domesticated the vision. Minister Ramatlhodi highlighted investment prospects in requisite infrastructure in the continent to unlock the mineral development potential through the Program Infrastructure Development for Africa (PIDA) of the African Union, chaired by President Zuma. Further, he emphasized that South Africa remains the wealthiest mining jurisdiction in the world, with non-energy in-situ mineral wealth estimated at US$ 2.5 trillion. To deliver on the promise of development of the economy and citizens, this mineral wealth must be supported by beneficiation and industrialisation. This is key to national, and continental growth and development.
Minister of Economic Development, Mr Ebrahim Patel, used the opportunity of WEF Africa 2015 to showcase the South African full-body, low-dose x-ray scanner, called the Lodox scanner to the international community. This scanner builds on technology developed in the mining industry and is now an example of South Africa’s ingenuity and innovation. The scanner has also been profiled on the medical drama Grey’s Anatomy. According to Minister Patel, the scanner is being used increasingly in the public health sector.
Team SA concluded day 2 of the WEF Africa 2015 with a soiree showcasing the country’s arts, culture, music and hospitality.
Team SA will conclude WEF Africa 2015 on Friday 5 June 2015 with the following programmes amongst others:
- Minister Pravin Gordhan will participate in a session on Financial Integrity
- Minister Jeff Radebe will participate in a session on Migration Inside and Outside Africa
- Minister Naledi Pandor will participate in a session on Transforming Africa’s Economies
- Minister Nhlanhla Nene will participate in a session on Africa Economic Outlook
- Minister Faith Muthambi will participate in a session entitled The Big News
Follow Team South Africa’s programme on twitter #WEFAfrica15
Enquiries:
Ms Phumla Williams
Acting Cabinet Spokesperson
Cell: 083 501 0139
