Unpacking South Africa’s unity government

South Africa's recent formation of the government of national unity (GNU) has sparked concern about the country's economic future. The optimism surrounding the announcement quickly faded as the rand weakened due to worries about the stability of the new administration. Dr. Pali Lehohla, Professor of Practice at the University of Johannesburg, joined CNBC Africa to discuss the critical issues facing South Africa's development and the essential tools needed to address them. Dr. Lehohla emphasized the importance of focusing on the real enemies of development in South Africa: poverty, inequality, and unemployment. While the formation of the GNU brought hope for change, Dr. Lehohla highlighted the lack of effective policy design and planning as a significant obstacle to progress. He noted that addressing these fundamental challenges required a shift in thinking and the implementation of robust systems and scenario-building frameworks. The composition of the unity government, dominated by the African National Congress, raised questions about the continuity of economic policies. Dr. Lehohla stressed the need for comprehensive scenario-building and quantified measures to guide policy decisions effectively. He referenced historical scenarios like the Montfleur and the future we chose, highlighting the importance of rigorous planning for long-term development. In discussing the tools needed to tackle poverty and inequality, Dr. Lehohla drew on the teachings of Modena Mutlomi, a historical figure who emphasized integrated planning and responsible leadership. He underscored the significance of integrated reporting and econometric modeling in shaping effective policy responses. As South Africa grapples with economic challenges and political transitions, Dr. Lehohla's insights serve as a reminder of the critical importance of strategic planning and foresight in addressing the country's pressing development issues. Building on past lessons and embracing innovative tools can pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable future for all South Africans.