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IOL News
3 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Making SA's national dialogue truly inclusive: A Mandela Day blueprint for unity and progress
Dr Nik Eberl is the Founder & Executive Chair: The Future of Jobs Summit™ (Official T20 Side Event) .He will be writing a regular column in Business Report. Image: Supplied When President Cyril Ramaphosa launched South Africa's National Dialogue last week, it reignited a powerful hope - that our fractured nation could come together, once again, to chart a shared path forward. The timing could not be more fitting. As we celebrate Mandela Day, we are reminded of Madiba's unwavering belief that dialogue is the most powerful tool we have to resolve our deepest differences and build a society grounded in dignity, justice, and unity. But to succeed, this dialogue must do more than gather leaders behind closed doors. It must be fully inclusive, reaching every corner of our country and every voice of our society. That's not just a political imperative - it's a moral one. From Soccer to Solidarity: The Lessons of 2010 We've seen before what unity can look like in South Africa. When we hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it wasn't just a sporting event—it was a national movement. I had the privilege of serving as the Head of the Brand Ambassador Program, where tens of thousands of ordinary South Africans became storytellers, hosts, and leaders. Townships, rural villages, corporates, and taxi ranks all felt the electricity of shared purpose. That success wasn't accidental. It was built on inclusive planning, local ownership, relentless communication, and a vision that made every citizen feel like a stakeholder. If we want this dialogue to leave a legacy like 2010 did, it must follow the same blueprint - but with deeper intent. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Begin with a People's Charter for Dialogue As Mandela did with the Codesa talks, we must ground the process in a clear and public mandate. A National Dialogue Charter should be co-created with representatives from all sectors - civil society, business, labour, youth, academia, traditional leaders, and opposition parties. It must outline the dialogue's purpose, scope, structure, and principles - including equity, transparency, and citizen ownership. Let the public comment. Let them shape it. Mandela taught us that process shapes outcome. If we begin with inclusion, we end with legitimacy. Representation Is Not Enough - We Need Participation Inclusion isn't just who sits at the table. It's who helps set the table. To honour Mandela's commitment to grassroots democracy, we must ensure representation from: Youth, through dedicated tracks and forums that centre their future. Women, as equal decision-makers across all levels. Townships and rural communities, through locally hosted forums in community halls, churches, and schools. Labour and informal workers, through platforms linked to Nedlac. Disabled citizens, by investing in accessible venues, interpretation, and transportation. Immigrants, refugees, and ethnic minorities, whose voices are often silenced but whose futures are tied to ours. In 2010, we went out to the people. We brought the event into their spaces. The dialogue must do the same. Multiple Entry Points for a United Conversation Not everyone can attend a summit in Pretoria. But everyone can participate and play a role. The dialogue should follow a three-tiered structure: Community Listening Circles, gathering local concerns and aspirations. Provincial Dialogues, to synthesise and elevate key issues. The National Summit, where diverse voices deliberate and ratify the People's Agenda. Digital engagement must play a core role - using WhatsApp, SMS, and radio call-ins to capture rural and urban insights alike. The 2010 model of Fan Fests and mobile activations can inspire a National Dialogue Roadshow - bringing the conversation to taxi ranks, campuses, and marketplaces. Independent Oversight for Real Accountability Mandela never feared being held accountable - he welcomed it. The dialogue must follow that example. We need a Public Inclusion Council, independently appointed, to: Audit demographic and geographic representation, Ensure fair access, And publish monthly Inclusion Scorecards. This is not window dressing. It is trust-building infrastructure. And without it, the process risks becoming an elite ivory tower. Let Citizens Influence the Outcome The greatest danger is that this becomes another talk shop. Mandela warned us many a time of dialogue without delivery. That is why the dialogue must lead to action: Adopt a Participatory Consensus Model, advancing ideas with broad, cross-sector support. Implement the Top 10 Public Recommendations within government and business reform agendas. Use Citizens' Assemblies to resolve difficult policy impasses. Much like the infrastructure, training, and tourism strategies left behind in 2010, this dialogue must leave a visible legacy - of laws changed, lives improved, and promises kept. Use Culture and Storytelling to Build Unity Mandela knew the power of storytelling to heal and inspire. So must we. Let this dialogue come alive through art, music, murals, and oral history. Partner with poets, singers, and media producers to make the process tangible and moving. In 2010, the vuvuzela became a national symbol. In 2025, let it be the voice of the people themselves. Conclusion: A Mandela Day Challenge As we reflect on Mandela's life today, we remember not only his words, but his method: 'It is never my custom to use words lightly. If twenty-seven years in prison have done anything to us, it was to use the silence of solitude to make us understand how precious words are and how real dialogue is.' This National Dialogue is our opportunity to listen again. To each other. To our past. To our possible future. Let us honour Madiba's legacy - not with commemorations alone, but by designing a process that restores dignity, inspires unity, and delivers justice. The time for real, inclusive, courageous dialogue is now. Dr Nik Eberl is the Founder & Executive Chair: The Future of Jobs Summit™ (Official T20 Side Event) and author of Nation of Champions: How South Africa won the World Cup of Destination Branding *** The views expressed here do not necessarily represent those of Independent Media or IOL BUSINESS REPORT
IOL News
5 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Airports security breaches allegations prompt Acsa to suspend security chief
nside sources told Business Report that Petros was instrumental in the now backfiring decision made in March to termine contracts with all security providers, including Bidvest, Fidelity, Mafoko, Eagle Eye, Venus Securitas, and G4S in a bid to insource its security requirements by July, which failed due to lack of capacity and a proper due diligence. Image: Armand Hough/Independent Newspapers Banele Ginindza The Airports Company South Africa (Acsa) has temporarily suspended its Group Executive for Enterprise Security and Compliance, Mzwandile Petros, amid growing concerns over potential misconduct linked to a R1 billion tender for Smart Security screening equipment. The suspension, announced over the weekend, follows alarming allegations suggesting manipulation of the X-ray screening contract, which allegedly left the OR Tambo International Airport vulnerable without a tactical response team. Inside sources told Business Report that Petros was instrumental in the now backfiring decision made in March to termine contracts with all security providers, including Bidvest, Fidelity, Mafoko, Eagle Eye, Venus Securitas, and G4S in a bid to insource its security requirements by July, which failed due to lack of capacity and a proper due diligence. "The South African Civil Aviation Authority had to intervene and stop the process as ACSA was not compliant and did not understand how the screener certification process works, they were issued a a R1.5 million fine for non-compliance. Regarding the failed insourcing at KSIA airport, Fidelity was called urgently back to rescue the situation." the sources said. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Acsa insisted in response to enquiries on Tuesday that to preserve the integrity of this process, ensure a fair and orderly process, and not to compromise the investigation, it cannot provide any further information until the investigation is concluded. "Acsa will report back once the investigation is concluded. The day-to-day functions of Acsa will not be affected by this decision. In the interim, Mary-Ann Joubert, has been appointed to act as GE:ESC to ensure continuity and maintain operational stability," Acsa said. Internal strife at Acsa has escalated in recent months, with late 2024 reports revealing allegations of executive misconduct and nepotism. These issues have raised serious questions surrounding irregularities prevalent in procurement processes and tender awards, further fueling public demand for accountability and transparent governance. Particular scrutiny has been placed on the procurement of X-ray and screening equipment, with pictures surfacing of Petros and Group Head for Mechanical Maintenance, Peter Sibanda, visiting a bidder in Europe while possessing control over the tendering process. Such actions have spurred allegations that signal improper relationships between Acsa executives and external contractors. Accusations of Petros, a former Gauteng and Eastern Cape police commissioner, hiring former police colleagues in strategic positions in the Acsa security cluster, as well as the tactical response team, have also surfaced as insiders alleged an improper relationship between Acsa and private security contractor, Eagle Eye Security (ESS). EES national general manager for support services, Johan Badenhorst, told Business Report the company was aware that Acsa has initiated an internal investigation and therefore, considered it both appropriate and prudent to afford Acsa the requisite space and latitude to conclude its internal processes without undue external influence or interference. "It is imperative to place on record, in unequivocal terms, that at no point during the subsistence of our contractual engagement with Airports Company South Africa SOC Ltd (ACSA) did Eagle Eye Security Specialists (Pty) Ltd (EESS) vacate the OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) site without the requisite tactical support team being deployed and operationally present," Badenhorst said. According to inside sources, manipulation of the X-ray screening positions and associated services has seen workers struggle for job security as compelled to sign month-to-month contracts to defray benefits, including unemployment insurance, medical aid, bonuses and leave. Sources claim that the manipulation of X-ray screening positions has forced employees into precarious working conditions, often requiring them to sign short-term month-to-month contracts in order for the company to allegedly circumvent paying employee benefits such as unemployment insurance, medical aid, bonuses, and leave. "Because of this improper relationship between Acsa and Eagle Eye, workers are engaged on short-term contracts, which sometimes lead to overlaps in securing workers for the shifts," a source said. "There was a time in late June when the whole OR Tambo International Airport had no tactical response team because Acsa and Eagle Eye could not agree. Eagle Eye pulled out its teams, leaving Acsa's team of retired policemen. This was noted by one minister who was very angry about it." According to workers, since the installation of the X-ray and screening equipment, there has been a systematic shift in the management of security workers as both Acsa and Eagle Eye have their own quotas, which they are allegedly replacing with untrained staff. BUSINESS REPORT
IOL News
11-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Turning tariffs into triumph: How South Africa can turn Trump's 30% blow into a global jobs advantage
Dr Nik Eberl is the Founder & Executive Chair: The Future of Jobs Summit™ (Official T20 Side Event) .He will be writing a regular column in Business Report. Image: Supplied Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump announced a sweeping 30% tariff on all goods imported from South Africa, citing "unfair trade practices" and a lack of reciprocity. While the decision has rattled exporters and drawn sharp criticism from Pretoria, it may well be the catalyst we need to rethink our economic destiny. Rather than respond with indignation or fear, South Africa should view this challenge as an opportunity: to accelerate innovation, create new export markets, and, above all, build jobs for our youth - both at home and abroad. We've faced shocks before. From sanctions during apartheid to the 2008 global financial crisis, from Covid-19 to greylisting - South Africans have shown resilience in adversity. This tariff shock, while painful, could become a turning point, especially if aligned with the outcomes of the recent Future of Jobs Summit™. The time has come to build a youth-powered export economy - not reliant on old trade patterns, but on bold new industries and global opportunity. Here is a 10-step national response strategy - a roadmap to turning Trump's tariff into opportunity for the next generation. 1. Launch a 'Jobs Through Exports' National Task Force The government must move fast to establish a Presidential Jobs and Exports Task Force, composed of trade negotiators, youth employment leaders, industrialists, and tech entrepreneurs. This task force should develop job-led export policies tied to global growth sectors - digital services, AI, agritech, green energy, and creative industries. The goal? To link every trade decision to job outcomes. 2. Expand Global Business Services (GBS) to Absorb Displaced Workers One of South Africa's most promising job creation stories is the GBS sector, which has already created over 150 000 youth jobs by servicing global clients. The Future of Jobs Summit™ referenced the plan to grow this to 500 000 by 2030. Now is the time to double down. Redirect displaced workers from tariff-hit industries like citrus and wine into customer support, legal process outsourcing, and tech support roles targeting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. 3. Establish Export Zones for Youth-Owned Businesses Create Export Opportunity Zones (EOZs) in townships and rural areas, where youth entrepreneurs can produce goods and services for global markets, supported by tax breaks, seed capital, and global mentorship. Focus on e-commerce exports, fashion, crafts, digital goods, and virtual services. These zones can become global brand ambassadors for South African creativity. 4. Fast-Track Youth into High-Growth Export Sectors The sectors of the future are borderless: AI, coding, data science, cybersecurity, climate tech. We must ramp up public-private bootcamps, leveraging platforms like SAP's Educate to Employ and Young Professionals Programmes. These jobs can be delivered remotely from South Africa to the world. 5. Negotiate Tariff Off-Ramps in Exchange for Youth Empowerment Commitments Use the upcoming trade negotiation window not to beg for mercy - but to offer bold solutions. Propose a phased tariff rollback in exchange for youth-focused trade reforms, including reducing red tape on US imports that create jobs here (e.g. agri-tech, solar kits, education tech). 6. Diversify Export Markets with a Youth Lens The US is important - but not irreplaceable. We must move faster into Africa, the Middle East, India, China, and Latin America. But not just with commodities - with young entrepreneurs offering services and solutions. Government trade offices should target youth buyers abroad - young consumers, startups, digital platforms - and match them with SA youth suppliers. 7. Global Youth Placement Programme: Export Our Talent Why not treat our talented youth like our avocados and wine? Launch a Global Youth Work Placement Programme to partner with allies (Germany, UAE, Singapore, Canada) and place 50 000 South African youth per year into global internships, apprenticeships and service opportunities. 8. Create the SA Youth Export Accelerator Build a digital platform, backed by public and private funding, that matches youth-owned products and services with global demand. Think 'Shopify meets LinkedIn meets Alibaba.' Provide fulfilment, logistics, marketing and translation support—so our youth can export their skills, crafts, code, and creativity directly to global buyers. 9. Use the Future of Jobs Summit™ Blueprint as a Global Proof Point The recent Future of Jobs Summit™ generated a national blueprint for job creation through public-private action. This document must now become South Africa's economic diplomacy tool - used at the G20, World Trade Organisation, and Agoa renegotiations - to show the world we are not protectionist, but future-ready. 10. Rebrand the Nation Around Youth Potential Finally, South Africa must reposition itself globally - not as a victim of tariffs, but as a nation of youthful problem-solvers. Let's launch a bold campaign under the 'Made by SA Youth' banner. Show the world our coders, our storytellers, our green builders. Make every export, every service, every job part of a greater story: that South Africa is young, gifted, and open for global business. In Conclusion President Trump's tariffs may appear to be a heavy blow. But history teaches us: pressure creates diamonds. We have two options - retreat into victimhood or rise with purpose. The second path is not easy. But it offers something greater than avoiding a 30% tariff: a shot at economic self-determination, powered by our youth. If we play this right - turning this crisis into a coordinated, youth-driven export revolution - South Africa could emerge not just as a nation that endured Trump's tariff war, but one that outsmarted it and created a million new pathways into global world has thrown us a challenge. Let's answer it - not with anger, but with action, ambition and audacity.
IOL News
06-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
The Economic Impact of Cricket in South Africa: Insights from CSA
Cricket South Africa (CSA) said the sport of cricket plays a huge role in contributing to the South African GDP, tourism, and economy. Image: AFP Cricket South Africa (CSA) said the sport of cricket plays a huge role in contributing to the South African GDP, tourism, and economy. Speaking to the Business Report, CSA said that India's tour to South Africa in the 2024/2025 season created a big economic boost. CSA believes that the Proteas' recent victory in the ICC World Test Championship will further elevate the sport in the country. The Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (FEDHASA) has also welcomed the role of cricket in growing hospitality and tourism. Edward Khoza, Executive, Domestic Cricket (CSA), said that cricket plays a vital part in our economy, especially in transport, playing equipment, maintenance of infrastructure, and keeping individuals employed (especially coaches who operate one-on-one coaching and private academy landscapes). 'With the results that the Proteas Test Team has attained, there will be an enhanced positiveness towards the game, which will benefit all these markets.' Wanele Mngomezulu, Chief Marketing Officer (CSA), said that cricket plays a huge contribution in drawing international fans to South Africa, contributing to sports tourism. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading 'According to BDO, the direct, indirect, and induced economic impact was approximately R218 million for the recent SA vs India inbound tour. The total contribution to the national government via various taxes amounted to R14 million.' Mngomezulu added that the total number of full-time equivalent employment created/sustained was approximately 405. 'Skills level breakdown (Skilled – 61; Semi-skilled – 137; Unskilled / low – 67; and Informal – 140). The total direct expenditure generated by the event amounted to R75 million. In total, i.e., the direct, indirect, and induced economic impact of the event for South Africa was approximately R218 million.' Enoch Nkwe, Director: National Teams and High Performance (CSA), said that every tournament that a South African team wins and becomes world champions has a huge positive impact on South Africa. 'The team's achievements have helped restore belief and confidence in the country and have also provided a foundation for the 2027 Cricket World Cup. We hope this success will give us an opportunity to attract more Test matches in the next FTP cycle (2027–2031).' Khoza added that the impact of the win was felt immediately by those who were in London to support the team and those who received the team at OR Tambo upon their return. 'Many school-going kids participating at various levels of our pathway shared how the win inspires their desire and commitment to the game. The national players are now regarded as heroes and role models for the game – they have inspired people who follow cricket to take up bat and ball in a positive way with the long-term ambitions of following in their heroes' footsteps.' Rosemary Anderson, Fedhasa National Chairperson, said that cricket is immensely important to tourism. 'Events like the recent South Africa vs India tour bring in large numbers of international visitors who spend on accommodation, dining, transport, and experiences - directly benefitting thousands of businesses across the tourism value chain. The figures from the BDO are compelling numbers that show how cricket can be a job creator and a revenue booster. But the impact goes even further. International visitors often come for the cricket and stay for South Africa. Our country has one of the highest tourism return rates globally. Visitors fall in love with our landscapes, culture, and hospitality. It's not uncommon for someone who first visits to support their team to return later with family or friends for a broader leisure holiday. ' Anderson added that more international cricket fixtures are directly linked to more inbound travel. 'Hotels fill up, restaurants are booked, transport companies benefit, and tour operators see increased activity. But just as importantly, the media coverage of these events gives South Africa positive exposure on a global scale - showcasing our stadiums, cities, and natural beauty to millions of viewers. This kind of destination marketing, coupled with actual visitor arrivals, creates both short-term and long-term returns. Globally, the value of sports tourism is immense, contributing over 10% of global tourism spending according to UNWTO estimates. Anderson said that their recent win boosts national pride and positions South Africa as a cricket powerhouse - encouraging more international tours and tests here. 'Hosting the 2027 World Cup is even more significant. It offers us a golden opportunity to package and promote our country to a global audience, drive up arrivals, and attract investment in tourism infrastructure.' Following the conclusion of the third season of the Betway SA20 cricket competition in South Africa in February, League Commissioner Graeme Smith said that Season 3 of the Betway SA20 has been an absolute game-changer. 'This is the third year running that we have seen unprecedented growth across broadcast, attendance, and digital platforms; we have really made a mark as one of the leading sport and entertainment brands in the country. Globally, our numbers continue to increase and support our vision of being the biggest T20 cricket league outside of India.' BUSINESS REPORT Visit:
IOL News
04-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Turning G20 into a job-creation engine: Lessons from India's one million jobs project
Dr Nik Eberl is the Founder & Executive Chair: The Future of Jobs Summit™ (Official T20 Side Event) .He will be writing a regular column in Business Report. Image: Supplied As South Africa is gearing up to host the world's leaders at the G20 Plenary Summit in November 2025, one question looms large – how can we leverage the world's attention to boost job creation and grow the economy inclusively? There are many lessons to be applied in leveraging the G20 presidency for job creation - in particular India's 2023 hosting offers a compelling job creation blueprint for South Africa. By focusing on infrastructure, tourism, foreign investment, SME development, and workforce upskilling, India created over one million jobs before, during, and after the summit. South Africa can replicate and refine this model to leave a lasting economic impact. Here's how South Africa can maximize the G20 opportunity for job creation. 1. Infrastructure Development: A Boom for Construction and Urban Jobs Hosting the G20 required significant investments in infrastructure across major cities, including New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Varanasi. The Indian government fast-tracked projects such as: Expansion and beautification of New Delhi's Pragati Maidan, the primary summit venue. Airport upgrades, including Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, to accommodate global leaders. Smart city enhancements, including better waste management, green spaces, and street lighting. Job Creation Impact: Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Over 200 000 direct jobs were created in construction, engineering, and urban planning. Indirect employment opportunities emerged in cement, steel, logistics, and real estate. The hospitality sector also saw job growth, with hotels hiring additional staff for maintenance and event hosting. Long-Term Impact: Many of these infrastructure developments continue to benefit the economy, boosting real estate values and improving urban living standards. South Africa's Job Creation Opportunity Hosting the G20 provides a strong business case for accelerating infrastructure projects that will create thousands of jobs in: Transport & logistics – Road and rail expansion to improve trade routes. Energy sector – Renewable energy projects to tackle power shortages. Smart cities – Upgrading urban centers with better roads, housing, and tech hubs. By aligning G20 investments with South Africa's infrastructure development plan, we can create sustainable jobs at scale and boost investor confidence. 2. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) India strategically positioned the G20 Summit as an opportunity to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and expand corporate presence in key industries. The government: Held high-level investment summits alongside G20 meetings. Showcased India's manufacturing, digital economy, and green energy sectors. Launched the Invest India G20 Initiative, promoting India as a prime investment hub. Job Creation Impact India secured $100+ billion in investment pledges from global corporations. Expansion of foreign companies in India, particularly in EV manufacturing, fintech, and semiconductors, leading to 50 000+ high-skilled jobs. Indian startups gained visibility, attracting venture capital funding and supporting employment in the tech and digital sectors. Long-Term Impact: The influx of foreign investment strengthened India's industrial base, creating sustainable employment in automobile manufacturing, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence (AI). South Africa's FDI Opportunity The G20 is a powerful platform to attract investors in: Mining and Green Energy – A push for critical minerals like lithium and green hydrogen. Technology & AI – Positioning SA as a tech hub for Africa. Agriculture & Food Processing – Scaling up agribusiness to create jobs in rural areas. Job Impact: If South Africa secures just $10 billion (R175bn) in new investments, it could create 50 000+ direct and indirect jobs across these sectors. 3. Empowering Local Businesses & SMEs To ensure that small businesses benefited from G20 spending, the Indian government implemented a "Vocal for Local" procurement strategy. This included: Prioritising Indian manufacturers and suppliers for event-related procurement (furniture, decorations, and catering). Promoting regional cuisines and local textile industries during G20 events. Encouraging women-led and rural enterprises to provide handcrafted gifts for G20 delegates. Job Creation Impact Over 150 000 MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) gained new contracts, securing jobs for artisans, weavers, and food producers. Gig workers and freelancers saw increased demand in areas like content creation, marketing, and logistics. The growth of digital payment systems enabled small businesses to scale up and expand post-G20. Long-Term Impact: The G20 reinforced India's Make in India initiative, positioning local businesses for continued export growth and job sustainability. South Africa's SME Opportunity The G20 should be structured to benefit township businesses, informal traders, and local SMEs through: Local supplier contracts for catering, event planning, security, and transport. Promoting African-made products to delegates and investors. Digital platforms to connect global buyers with South African SMEs. Job Impact: If even 20% of G20 spending goes to SMEs, this could create tens of thousands of jobs in the informal and small business sector. Final Thoughts: The G20 as a Job Creation Catalyst for South Africa India's G20 presidency was not just a diplomatic success - it was an economic and employment driver. By focusing on infrastructure, tourism, investment, small businesses, and workforce upskilling, India created over one million jobs during and after the summit. With high unemployment and global economic shifts, South Africa must think big and act strategically. The G20 presidency is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create jobs, attract investment, and position South Africa as a leader in Africa's economic future. Dr Nik Eberl is the Founder & Executive Chair: The Future of Jobs Summit™ (Official T20 Side Event) and author of Nation of Champions: How South Africa won the World Cup of Destination Branding BUSINESS REPORT
