In April 2014 South Africans celebrated the 20th anniversary of both the end of apartheid and the creation of the modern Republic of South Africa. These two events highlight just how far South Africa has come in the past two decades, during which the nation’s numerous assets have contributed to its rise as one of Africa’s leading economic and diplomatic players.
Indeed, since the end of apartheid in 1994 South Africa has become a major diplomatic player both on the African continent as well as further afield. Despite the size of South Africa’s economy, the country currently faces a number of major economic challenges.
As of the end of July 2014 the unemployment rate was at 25.5%, according to data from Statistics South Africa, which was among the highest in the world. While the government’s long-term development plans are generally highly regarded, delivery and execution has occasionally been problematic.
While there are major hurdles that must be cleared, given the country’s strong institutions and the rapid pace of economic expansion over the past two decades, South Africa should be able to look forward to 20 more years of peace and steady, sustained economic growth.
OBG talks to President Jacob Zuma
OBG talks to Rob Davies, Minister of Trade and Industry
OBG talks to Angel Gurría, Secretary-General, OECD
OBG talks to Jim Cowles, CEO for Europe, Middle East & Africa, Citigroup
Localising the value chain: OBG talks to Johan van Zyl, CEO, Toyota Africa
OBG talks to Monwabisi Kalawe, CEO, South African Airways (SAA)
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