President Zuma addresses TOC Africa

News 5 Dec 2017 by WCN Editorial

South Africa’s President, Jacob Zuma, has delivered the opening speech at TOC Africa CSC conference in Durban today (5 December)

𝕏

“The maritime sector is critical for Africa’s rise in global trading,” he told conference delegates. “Over 90% of Africa’s trade is moved by sea and it is, therefore, vitally important that coastal countries continue to expand their ports, develop their maritime industries and improve their infrastructure (road and rail connections) to the continent’s landlocked nations.”

“It is vital that Africa develops its ocean economies further, and we in South Africa are at the forefront of this.

“Our ‘Operations Phakisa’ programme is generating new investment and creating jobs, and will boost our economic growth.”

Mr Zuma added: “Once we get the infrastructure right, our continent will surely see the results in terms of foreign direct investment.

“You will agree with me that, indeed, the continent is an attractive destination for economic investment.”

Finally, the president stressed the need to embrace new technology and digitalisation saying that these “provided opportunities to create more entrepreneurs and for public and private enterprises to work together in building a better Africa”.