Budget speech winner Xolani Mazomba

Xolani Mazomba, a recent graduate from the University of Johannesburg, emerged victorious in the annual Budget Speech Competition hosted by Old Mutual and Nedbank. The competition, designed to foster fresh and forward-thinking ideas from young professionals in the fields of economics and finance, aims to spark dialogue on economic development on a national scale. Mazomba's success in the postgraduate category was a result of his innovative proposals on funding the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme, which caught the attention of the judges and set him apart as the standout winner. Mazomba sat down with CNBC Africa to share insights on his competition journey and his perspectives on the government's fiscal policies. Reflecting on his past participation in the competition as a semi-finalist in 2014, Mazomba expressed gratitude for the opportunity and underscored the growth and learning he experienced over the years. Mazomba delved into his research on the NHI funding model, commending the government's commitment to advancing the policy despite the challenges it faces. He highlighted the importance of economic growth in expanding the tax base to support the NHI financially. Mazomba emphasized the need for a robust public-private partnership to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of the NHI, acknowledging the valuable expertise present in the private sector that could benefit the public healthcare system. Looking ahead, Mazomba, who recently completed his master's in financial economics, is eager to leverage his expertise in the economics and finance sector, as he embarks on the next phase of his career. With a passion for contributing to the development of South Africa's economic landscape, Mazomba is actively seeking opportunities to make a meaningful impact in the field. His dedication to promoting sustainable economic growth and fostering collaboration between different sectors underscores his commitment to driving positive change in the country's economic trajectory. As Mazomba sets his sights on the future, his innovative ideas and fresh perspectives position him as a promising talent in the realm of economics and finance, poised to make a lasting impression in the industry.