Panelists spell out hopes for Africa
THE final panel discussion at WEF Africa 2017, fittingly, shares a title with this year’s theme; achieving inclusive growth.
Moderated by Bronwyn Nielsen, editor-in-chief and executive director of CNBC Africa, the 30-minute panel was a robust session in which delegates were asked to first imagine themselves as the president of Africa.
They would then need to explain what steps they would take to achieve inclusive growth, and then, to prioritise these steps.
Inclusive growth is a concept that advances equitable opportunities during economic growth, with every section of society reaping the benefits.
Siyabonga Gama, group chief executive of Transnet, said: “I think the key issues lie not with strategic planning, but action. It requires a sense of urgency. The implementation of bold decision making, keeping in mind that overregulation slows down progress.”
Winnie Byanyima, executive director of Oxfam International said: “I know I sound pessimistic but I have a right to fight, because it’s my continent. In a tribute to Ahmed Kathrada at WEF by Pravin Gordhan, I was reminded of a quote by Uncle Kathy, ‘freedom is not a gift, you have to fight for it’. It is our ubuntu.”
Ulrich Spiesshofer, chief executive of ABB, echoed Byanyima, said: “We need to move from ‘I’ and ‘me’ to a joint effort and a common vision. We need to look to Singapore as an example of that togetherness and then operationalise that togetherness. We need a free movement alliance so that money and people can move more freely. On the job side we need to act now, create jobs and get people moving.”
Frederick Lemons, Wendel’s chairperson of the executive board, said “in spite of the progress Africa has made, there is a lack of quick action. There is a lack of predictability for the rest of the world. If I were president I would minimise my role and be an ambassador as I try to attract the kind of global companies needed to invest and grow our opportunities.”
All panellists said they were optimistic about Africa’s prospects and emphasised the role of the youth. Gama said: “I think we could unlock the vast potential Africa possesses.”
Byanyima added Africa was in a better place than 10 years go. “Our youth are already better educated and healthier. We need to reduce and manage the risks.