Johannesburg, South Africa – President Cyril Ramaphosa convened ministers and senior business leaders today, January 16, 2025, to reaffirm the Government-Business Partnership’s shared ambition of driving significant economic growth in South Africa.
AfricaHeadline Reports Team
editorial@africaheadline.com
The focus for 2025 is centred on accelerating critical reforms, operational enhancements, and targeted interventions in energy, transport, logistics, crime prevention, and youth employment. Building on the achievements of Phase 1 of the partnership—most notably the reduction of load shedding—key milestones highlighted included the recent promulgation of the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act (ERA) and the release of Transnet’s Network Statement in December, showcasing the government’s commitment to tangible policy action.
These reforms, coupled with ongoing initiatives under Operation Vulindlela, have the potential to elevate GDP growth above 3%, a crucial threshold to reduce unemployment and foster economic resilience. However, realising this vision requires substantial investment to drive inclusive and sustainable growth.
The partnership is anchored on principles of exceptional governance, clear delineation of roles between government and business, and a results-driven approach to reform implementation. Leaders acknowledged that while significant progress has been made, accelerated efforts are essential to deliver on their ambitious agenda.
As South Africa prepares to host the G20 and B20 summits, the partnership will be positioned as a model of public-private collaboration. It demonstrates how the business sector can leverage its expertise and resources to support the government’s policy agenda, offering a compelling case study for both emerging and developed markets.
The year ahead presents a pivotal opportunity to redefine the “SA Inc” narrative, attracting investment, driving economic growth, and creating jobs. Stakeholders underscored the urgency of seizing this moment to ensure meaningful progress and solidify South Africa’s position as a leader in innovative partnerships for development.