Ramaphosa Calls For Enhanced Business-Govt Ties To Address Unemployment, Growth Challenges

President Cyril Ramaphosa said that while the partnership between business and government has made progress in areas like energy and logistics, more collaboration is needed to tackle South Africa's biggest issues - unemployment and economic growth.

Speaking at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) on Wednesday, the president praised Youth Employment Service and the SA Youth National Pathway Management Network programs, supported by businesses, to increase work opportunities.

"With our far-reaching reforms gaining momentum, the second phase of our partnership with business requires a firm focus on employment creation. This is where we need to strengthen the partnership," he said, SA News reported.

He added, "Business continues to support programs like the Youth Employment Service and the SA Youth National Pathway Management Network. These initiatives connect young unemployed South Africans with opportunities for work experience, jobs and skills. But there is much more we need to do."

Ramaphosa noted that both government and business agree on several areas where they can work together to boost economic growth and create jobs. He emphasized the need to speed up changes to the visa system to attract essential skills, investment, and tourism.

He also highlighted the importance of seizing opportunities in tourism, business process outsourcing, and the digital economy. Ramaphosa stressed the importance of equipping the workforce with digital skills for the modern job market.

The president also pointed out the need to use private sector funds to help small businesses grow, especially in underserved areas like townships and rural regions.

"As the Government of National Unity, we seek to deepen this partnership [with business] so that we can together build a conducive environment for investment, growth and job creation," he said.

At the BUSA AGM, Ramaphosa said that the government is working hard to fulfill its promise to boost the economy, adding that the top priority of his administration is to promote inclusive growth, which is crucial for creating jobs.

The president mentioned that the government is concentrating on sectors with great potential for growth and job creation, including technology, manufacturing, agriculture and renewable energy.

Ramaphosa emphasized that the government is dedicated to working with BUSA to boost economic growth and improve the quality of life for all South Africans. He also noted that it's important to keep engaging actively and regularly to maintain this partnership.