30 years of democracy in South Africa provides an opportunity for reflection

South Africa’s 30 years of democracy provide an opportunity to reflect on how far the country has come, while also providing an opportunity to chart a path that will promote economic growth and nation-building.

“Thirty years of democracy is a key turning point, prompting reflection on how far we have come and, most importantly, where we are heading in the near future and over the next 30 years as a nation.

“In my opinion, I believe we can all play a role in creating the country of our dreams. Not just the government, but all sectors of society, including politicians, the public sector, policy professionals and academia, must work together to create a path for our country that promotes economic growth, overall prosperity and nation building,” said Vice President Paul Mashatile.

On Friday, the Vice President spoke at the BBQ Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner at Kempton Park.

READ | Deputy President Speaks at BBQ Awards Ceremony

After South Africa held elections on May 29, the Vice President said: “Once again, just as in 1994, we have the opportunity to build a united and prosperous South Africa under the rule of the GNU (Government of National Unity).”

He added that the nation-building process is extensive and the government’s vision is to create a society based on the highest aspects of human civilization, including political and civil freedoms, socio-economic rights, value systems and identity.

“The 2024 election results truly provide us with an opportunity to return to the task of building a South Africa that is not defined by race, class or gender.

“However, we cannot ignore the structural and systemic inequalities that persist in all sectors of our economy, particularly in business and industry, if we are to build a truly united South Africa. Our commitment to racelessness and cooperation does not mean we are unaware that the legacy of apartheid continues to systemically disenfranchise individuals based on race, gender and class 30 years later. However, we must remain positive about the future of our nation,” he explained.

He added that the government remains committed to investing in people through education, skills development and high-quality healthcare.

“We aspire to improve the spatial prospects of our communities by building inclusive cities and delivering services. We call on all segments of society to work with us to ensure that our democracy is stable, efficient and effective, connecting all people.

“The Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for black, youth and women-led businesses to thrive.

Changing the trajectory of South Africa’s economic growth

As a government, we are leveraging the black-owned business sector to help us recover from the global economic crisis and COVID-19 pandemic. We stand ready for important conversations about how the informal economy can contribute to building our economy.”

He stressed that the increase in the number of unemployed people in the South is a cause for concern.

“The rise in the number of unemployed South Africans, particularly among the youth, requires more immediate action to help us fundamentally change our growth trajectory. We must therefore have an open and inclusive conversation about the recovery that will lead to increased economic activity.

“We need to recognize that there is a more urgent need to support aggressive measures and forms of economic integration for black-owned businesses, especially in historically underserved sectors of the economy. We need to pay special attention to how governments at all levels can create supportive policies and regulatory environments that support the informal economy.”

Hope and the Eradication of Poverty

He added that given the current discussion on the country’s economic situation, there is room for growth, development and hope.

“Government efforts to restructure the economy through Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policies, legal frameworks and other interventions have made progress, but more needs to be done. Despite the obstacles faced since the B-BBEE Act was passed two decades ago, our government remains steadfast in its mission to strengthen and expand economic empowerment and inclusion across all sectors.

“It will continue to be like this, even under the Government of National Unity.”

The Vice President also appealed for cooperation to eliminate poverty.

“If we don’t work together, government alone will not be able to create stability or achieve the National Development Plan and Vision 2030 goal of eliminating poverty. We need to work together to expand the scope of black-owned businesses beyond convenience stores like spaza shops.

“Our economy has a lot to offer, and the informal sector, which is dominated by black-owned businesses, should capitalize on this reality.”SAnews.gov.za