The world is changing fast and to keep up you need local knowledge with global context.
André de Ruyter uncovered many issues in his bestseller. And despite what his detractors suggest, he provided plenty names.
This week I received my invitation to the World Economic Forum’s Summer Davos meeting in China at the end of June. The economics of modern publishing being what they are, drinking in the knowledge that will be abundantly ditributed at the event is only possible if we find a sponsor.
After 2021’s rebalancing, which raised the economy’s official size by 11%, South Africa’s GDP is now $420bn. The world’s GDP is over $100 trillion. This means SA accounts for just 0.4% of global economic activity – for every $1 000 spent anywhere on earth this year, only $4 will be on the southern tip of Africa.
Former Eskom CEO André de Ruyter reminds me of politician Gayton McKenzie. Both were very obviously passed over when diplomacy genes were handed out.
With geopolitics so critical for open economies like South Africa’s, it behoves someone in my line of work to access various international sources.
Anyone who has read Andre de Ruyter’s book, would be deeply disappointed that Ramaphosa gives a higher priority to his Ukraine War Peace Mission than addressing the Eskom mess.
Despite chaos elsewhere, since 1994 South Africa’s Treasury has established a reputation as a centre of excellence.
The ANC is trying to downplay SA’s full-blown crisis caused by the ruling party’s arms-to-Russia debacle. Big League countries, however, aren’t buying it.
Our partners at the Financial Times in London offer a window into how the world sees South Africa. It’s currently with little affection.
Alec Hogg highlights the notable commentary from South African leadership as outrage over SA’s diplomatic relations with Russia flares.