Government has launched the 25th World Economic Forum on Africa (WEF-Africa) in Johannesburg today.
Under the theme: “Then and Now: Reimagining Africa’s Future”, the WEF Africa will take place in Cape Town from the 3rd-5th June; and is expected to draw more than 1 000 leaders from politics, academia, civil society and the media.
Speaking at the media breakfast launch Minister in the Presidency, Jeff Radebe said the forum will take stock of the progress made over the last 25 years, share insights on the present landscape and identify innovative approaches to accelerate inclusive growth while bringing about sustainable development in the continent.
Radebe was accompanied by Minister of Economic Development Ebrahim Patel and Telecommunications Minister Dr Siyabonga Cwele who also assured the world that South Africa is open for business and emphasised regional integration.
“The World Economic Forum’s Africa meeting follows the month in which South Africa celebrates Africa Month (May) and Africa Day (25 May) and comes ahead of the bi-annual African Union Summit. South Africa will use these key events to mobilise attention, and action, in support of the African developmental agenda, and particularly Agenda 2063.
“Undoubtedly, this is also an important event to show-case what South Africa has to offer to other countries and business globally. South Africa is open for business! In 2012 South Africa adopted the National Development Plan as our roadmap to the future we want. The NDP is South Africa’s blueprint for economic development and social cohesion and a better life for all its citizens,” Minister Radebe said.
Radebe, who is also the Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration, used the launch to condemn attacks on foreign nationals.
“As a country we stand firmly against all intolerances such as racism, xenophobia, homophobia and sexism,” the Minister added.
Elsie Kanza, Head of Africa World Economic Forum said the forum will host over 90 ministers and other public figures with at least 83 leading international companies.
“The occasion of our 25th meeting allows us an opportunity to see how far Africa has come economically, socially and politically since 1990.
“However, what this meeting is really about is looking forward, to see how we can channel the lessons of the past with the creativity, innovation and resourcefulness that comes from all stakeholders working together to solve Africa’s challenges in the present and future,” Kanza said.
South Africa values the importance and contribution that WEF provides in creating economic opportunities for growth and development in the country and the continent.
Enquires:
Phumla Williams
Acting Cabinet Spokesperson
Cell: 083 5010 139
