Accelerating public-private partnership in S.Africa’s economy

South Africa's top government and business leaders gathered at a Pre-World Economic Forum Annual Meeting breakfast in Sandton where the focus was on accelerating public-private partnerships in the country's economy. CNBC Africa spoke with Adrian Gore, Group CEO of Discovery, who expressed optimism about the unique construct of public-private partnerships as a model that emerging markets should adopt. He emphasized the power of collaboration between the private and public sectors, highlighting areas such as transport, logistics, crime, and corruption as key focuses for partnership efforts. Gore highlighted the significant progress made within just a year of establishing these partnerships, particularly noting the impactful role they played in addressing challenges like load-shedding. He commended the goodwill and trust that underpins these collaborations, emphasizing the need for sustained governance and unity to drive economic growth. Addressing concerns about South Africa's economic outlook, Gore remained steadfast in his belief in the country's potential, citing the quality of its people and the importance of strong leadership in leveraging opportunities for growth. While acknowledging the challenges and uncertainties in the global economy, including geopolitical tensions and trade risks, Gore emphasized the need for South Africa to maintain a positive and confident stance in navigating the complexities of the international landscape. Despite uncertainties surrounding South Africa's government of national unity (GNU), Gore expressed confidence in the collaborative spirit that enabled its formation in a remarkably short period. He cautioned against placing excessive reliance on any single structure, urging a collective commitment to working through challenges and delivering results for the economy. As the World Economic Forum emphasizes the theme of partnerships and collaboration in the intelligent age, Gore underscored the importance of maintaining a middle ground in South Africa's political landscape, steering clear of polarization to drive economic progress and job creation. He acknowledged the risks of deepening global divides and emphasized the need for resilience and determination in the face of potential conflicts and disruptions. In conclusion, Gore's insights shed light on the importance of sustained public-private partnerships, strong leadership, and a cohesive national vision in propelling South Africa towards economic growth and stability amidst global uncertainties. The country's ability to navigate challenges and leverage its inherent strengths will be pivotal in charting a course towards a brighter economic future.