If I were President: Naledi Pandor outlines vision for South Africa’s future

Former Minister Dr Naledi Pandor, Chair of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, shared her vision for South Africa’s future if she were president, highlighting the primacy of economic growth and social inclusion. 

Speaking to IOL on Thursday after delivering this year’s Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (MISTRA) Lecture at the University of Johannesburg, Pandor stressed the urgent need to generate revenue through growth to fulfill government obligations.

“If I were president of South Africa, I would focus on economic growth because when you have growth, you generate revenue that allows you to do what the government should do,” Pandor said. 

“Secondly, it’s about inclusion, especially young people, and giving black South Africans the confidence to believe they can make an impact. Over time, we have not done enough to build that confidence - self-assured confidence and belief in our own agency.

She pointed to a shift in mindset necessary for South Africa’s future, saying, “We’ve created an image that the government is the solution. I think individuals and organisations are the solutions, so I would work at showing people you can make it happen.”

Pandor’s lecture addressed the theme, “Has the world moved under our feet? Analysing shifting geopolitical dynamics, notably the tense US-China relations, and their impact on global peace and economies”.

“The world is indeed shifting,” Pandor noted. “With policy changes in the US under President Trump, South Africa must strengthen relations with new and growing trade partners, especially on our continent, in Africa, East Asia, and, of course, China. 

“Our past benefits from American companies employing thousands in the automotive sector have helped develop crucial skills, but future partnerships should be based on mutual interest rather than unequal power.”

The former Minister also referred to the upcoming G20 summit, with South Africa currently holding the G20 presidency as a strategic platform, arguing that ​​it embodies solidarity, equality, and sustainability.

“The G20 creates an excellent opportunity to showcase our country and continent. South Africa’s theme confirms our commitment to positive values of diversity, shared prosperity, and inclusion.

“Hosting over 100 meetings efficiently highlights Africa’s capacity to manage large events and reinforces links with Europe and the world’s leading economies.”

In a media briefing on Wednesday last week, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Ronald Lamola laid out the country’s dynamic foreign policy engagements, spotlighting key accomplishments and ongoing priorities ahead of the G20 summit.

The Minister hailed South Africa’s foreign policy momentum, saying it was most visible in its stewardship of the G20 Presidency - a historic milestone as the first African nation to hold this role. 

“These events will showcase Africa’s voice and priorities in global economic governance, reinforcing the connection between peace and prosperity.”

Lamola said the summit, which is scheduled for November 18-20, aims to broaden civil society participation beyond traditional engagement groups.

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

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