Save South Africa: More than 100 CEOs from top South African corporations have joined forces in a powerful pledge to address the nation’s challenges and drive sustainable, inclusive economic growth, aiming to create hope and save the country’s future.
Johannesburg, South Africa (28 July 2023) – Over 115 CEOs from South Africa’s leading corporations have come together in a historic show of unity and belief in the potential of their nation. With a shared vision for a better future, they have signed a powerful pledge aimed at tackling the challenges facing South Africa and achieving sustainable, inclusive economic growth.
The pledge resonates with the collective determination of these business leaders to be a force for good and to make a positive impact on the lives of all South Africans. The scale and diversity of the companies represented in this movement are unprecedented, and there is a growing expectation that more CEOs will join this inspiring initiative.
The pledge states: “As South African business leaders, we firmly believe in the immense potential of our country. We are committed to building it and have come together to address the current challenges with the aim of achieving sustainable, inclusive economic growth. Through strategic partnerships and focused interventions, we have the power to make a significant and positive impact on our nation, creating hope for all South Africans. We are resolutely committed to being a force for good”.
South Africa, like any country, faces its fair share of problems – from slow economic growth and crumbling infrastructure to crime and corruption, along with staggering levels of inequality and unemployment. But these CEOs are undeterred. They firmly believe in their country’s potential and are committed to changing its trajectory for the better.
Adrian Gore, Vice President of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) and CEO of Discovery praised the commitment and collaboration shown by his fellow business leaders. He emphasized that this pledge is not just symbolic; it’s a tangible commitment to drive change in vital sectors for economic recovery. By joining forces and translating partnerships into action, they can profoundly impact communities and individuals across the nation.
“The importance of this pledge cannot be understated – it signals the collective belief of some of South Africa’s largest businesses in the country’s future, and highlights the support and resources already mobilised to address our country’s challenges.”
One standout example of this collaborative effort is the partnership between business and government, as recently announced by the President and leading CEOs. This partnership is focused on addressing key fundamentals in areas such as Energy, Transport and Logistics, and Crime and Corruption. By combining resources and expertise, they aim to tackle the socioeconomic crises head-on.
Business Unity South Africa (BUSA), through its structure Business for South Africa (B4SA), is playing a pivotal role in implementing priority interventions. They are determined to bring the necessary resources and capacity to address the challenges their country faces. Various organizations, including BUSA, B4SA, Business Leadership South Africa, and the Resource Mobilisation Fund (RMF), are actively working to secure funding, skills, and expertise to support the government’s efforts.
Cas Coovadia, CEO of BUSA, stressed the significance of collaboration and its role in overcoming obstacles. He highlighted that long-term meaningful investment is essential for sustainable and inclusive growth, which in turn is fundamental to improving the lives of all South Africans.
“The backdrop against which this pledge has been made is clear. South Africa currently faces many obstacles that have hindered our path to prosperity and perpetuated a narrative of decline and hopelessness. Business has consistently said that long-term meaningful investment is a precursor to sustainable, inclusive growth which in turn is fundamental to addressing socioeconomic improvement.”
Martin Kingston, Chair of the B4SA Steering Committee, echoed the shared belief between business and government in the need for substantial and enduring investment. While tangible progress may take time, this approach is essential for addressing the country’s prevailing crises. As a united business community, they are committed to constructive interventions that will bring about positive change – now and for the future.
The CEO pledge represents a beacon of hope for South Africa, showcasing the determination of its business leaders to be a catalyst for positive transformation. Through their concerted efforts, strategic partnerships, and unwavering commitment, they are paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous nation.