The ANC government has never had a credible, labour-intensive growth policy
The ruling party’s economic mantra of inclusive growth is a fairy tale, and it is time to say so unequivocally
The problems facing SA in the post-apartheid era have always been obvious: structurally high unemployment and inequality and poverty. And the policy response imperatives have also been very obvious: sustainable labour intensive and inclusive growth strategy and policy. The philosophical conviction to pursue such a strategy and policy was wired into the DNA of the ANC as it prepared to assume power following the transition negotiations. The shape and state of the economy inherited by the ANC-led government dictated a need to ensure sustained and shared economic growth to deal effectively with the challenges of structural unemployment inequality and poverty. But the reality we have experienced is that economic growth has been consistently low, and below the targets set in all the government’s growth plans. The blame has often been attributed to external and global exigencies on which we had very little control. But this has been a deflective excuse rather than the whole truth. The fun...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.