By Johnathan Paoli
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing infrastructure development, enhancing service delivery and expanding investment opportunities to position South Africa not only as a continental leader, but also as a gateway to Africa’s economic growth.
Speaking ahead of the Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa’s active role in strengthening intra-African trade and investment partnerships.
The annual gathering, which brings together nearly 3000 CEOs, heads of state and global investors, serves as a strategic platform for showcasing South Africa’s investment potential and deepening regional economic cooperation.
“We are determined to use the longstanding presence of South African companies on our continent to expand trade and investment with fellow African nations. South African business must be at the forefront of the transformation of African industry,” Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter on Monday.
The president emphasised that the structural reforms initiated during the sixth administration and expanded under the current Government of National Unity aimed to create a more competitive and inclusive economy.
These include initiatives to streamline public services, attract skilled workers and foster innovation through regulatory frameworks.
Central to these reforms is the launch of the Digital Transformation Roadmap, part of the next phase of Operation Vulindlela, which seeks to modernise government services and boost public sector efficiency.
Led by tech entrepreneur Melvyn Lubega, the newly established Digital Service Unit will oversee the rollout of real-time payment systems, digital ID verification and data-sharing mechanisms across departments.
The president underscored this initiative as a cornerstone of its economic reform agenda, aimed at driving growth and job creation through digital innovation.
During the Forum, Ramaphosa will participate in high-level discussions on building closer collaboration between governments and businesses, especially in areas of infrastructure and industrial development.
South Africa currently ranks second in sub-Saharan Africa on the Global Innovation Index, a testament to its vibrant tech ecosystem and commitment to research and development.
As chair of the G20 this year, South Africa is expected to continue to spotlight African interests on the global stage, advocating for inclusive cooperation and sustainable recovery, while remaining committed to its own internal reforms aimed at unlocking long-term growth.
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