This weekend I have the privilege to attend the Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation’s Drakensberg Inclusive Growth Forum that started this afternoon, 25 October and will end on Sunday at the Champagne Sports Resort in Kwa-Zulu Natal. This prestigious per-invitation-only annual event is facetiously dubbed the “Drakensberg’s Davos” by attendees because of the high calibre speakers and invited delegates. Kgalema Motlanthe, former President of South Africa and patron of the Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation (KMF), addressed critical issues surrounding global security and governance. He emphasised the need to rethink and restructure the global order to address the evolving challenges of peace and security, especially within the African context.
Motlanthe began by highlighting the limitations of the United Nations, noting that its current structure reflects a post-World War II balance of power that has revealed significant weaknesses over time. Quoting the words of former UN Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjold, he reminded attendees, “The United Nations was not created in order to bring us to heaven, but in order to save us from hell.” However, he pointed out that this initial purpose is undermined by the UN Security Council’s ongoing struggles to broker peace due to the conflicting interests of its permanent members: the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China.
This imbalance, Motlanthe argued, places Africa at a disadvantage within the global order. “Africa lacks a direct voice in the most powerful decision-making body when it comes to global peace and security because the continent does not have permanent representation on the UN Security Council,” he explained. With a disproportionate focus on African conflicts, the Security Council’s paralysis often leaves Africa sidelined, unable to actively participate in shaping solutions that directly impact the continent.
Echoing the sentiments of current UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Motlanthe shared, “We cannot accept that the world’s pre-eminent peace and security body lacks a permanent voice for a continent of well over a billion people, a young and rapidly growing population making up 28% of the membership of the United Nations.” This glaring omission, he stated, underlines critical flaws within a system that continues to neglect or undervalue African perspectives on issues of peace and security.
Reflecting on the Drakensberg Forum’s significance, Motlanthe observed that over the years, the forum has offered an invaluable space for open dialogue and the free exchange of ideas on growth, governance, and progress. He encouraged participants to see the forum not just as a meeting place but as a platform for action: “The past has not exhausted our duty and obligation to the future.”
Motlanthe concluded by urging attendees to bridge the gaps between history and future responsibility and to “envision a world where reason, truth, and action lead to ever-widening possibilities.” His words underscored a call for renewed commitment to inclusive governance and meaningful reform that would empower Africa within a reimagined global order.
The keynote address was given by Professor Edward Kieswetter, Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), who urged the audience to understand the critical role of taxes in sustaining South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens. His topic was “Building a tax system to build a better life for all “. His message was clear: while frustrations over government corruption and inefficiencies are valid, withholding taxes is not the solution. Instead, he called for a heightened sense of activism, empathy, and accountability.
“I often hear calls for a tax boycott, especially from those in privileged positions,” Kieswetter noted. “It is almost always the voice of privilege that overlooks how such actions hurt the most vulnerable among us.” He emphasised that while those with means can secure private healthcare, education, and safety, low-income citizens depend on public services funded by taxes. “For many, the 350-rand social relief grant is life-changing,” he said, underscoring the essential role of government support for people who rely on it daily.
Highlighting South Africa’s social realities, Kieswetter pointed out that 60% of the national budget goes toward social services, while a substantial portion – 20 cents of every rand – serves to manage the country’s debt. “That leaves only 20% of each rand for investments in growth and productivity, which is not a sustainable situation,” he stated. Kieswetter urged taxpayers to “agitate and become activists for how their money is spent,” suggesting that taxpayers should demand more accountability and transparency in government spending.
Despite challenges, Kieswetter underscored SARS’ successes in modernising its operations and improving efficiency, driven by advancements in technology and artificial intelligence. “We envision a Revenue Authority where tax compliance is almost seamless for most people,” he explained, noting that this year, five million taxpayers required no action to complete their returns, thanks to automated processes. Using data from third-party sources and machine learning algorithms, SARS was able to process tax assessments swiftly and accurately, with refunds issued within 72 hours for those requiring adjustments.
Reflecting on SARS’ long journey, Kieswetter mentioned its growth from collecting R114 billion at the dawn of democracy to R1.74 trillion last year. “In the 30 years of our democracy, SARS has collected R21.5 trillion to fund South Africans’ aspirations and dreams. This is something we can all be proud of,” he said.
Kieswetter acknowledged that SARS’ systems are not without flaws, pointing to the 54 million outstanding returns and R300 billion in undisputed tax debt. He committed to continuing efforts to improve SARS’ efficiency, citing recent accolades for innovation and digital transformation. “Our work is about balancing service and risk, and it’s not easy. But by embracing AI, we are creating a future-ready SARS that promotes trust, efficiency, and transparency.”
In his closing remarks, Kieswetter shared his leadership philosophy, emphasising clarity, purpose, and meritocracy. “People should always know where leaders stand on matters of substance,” he said, encouraging other leaders to commit to intentional, deliberate actions. “Engaged employees lead to happy taxpayers, which, in turn, leads to positive results for the country,” he concluded.
Professor Kieswetter’s remarks come at a pivotal moment as South Africans grapple with issues of economic inequality and government accountability. Through his speech, he invited citizens to play an active role in ensuring that the nation’s tax system serves all South Africans equitably and effectively, and to understand the impact that responsible tax compliance has on building a more inclusive society.
The SARS’s Commissioner was followed by Mcebisi Jonas, Chairman of MTN, who topic was “Beyond the ballot – GNU and global politics”. He urged South African leaders to focus on building a robust political center capable of driving the nation’s growth and transformation amidst the challenges facing the newly formed Government of National Unity (GNU). Reflecting on the political shifts following the latest election, Jonas stressed the importance of “a new political center that better represents the needs and aspirations of the majority of South Africans” in order to ensure coherence and stability.
“The recent elections have certainly reshaped the political landscape,” said Jonas, adding that, while some view the GNU as a “reset,” it is not an outright agenda change but rather a pragmatic shift. “It’s better to be inside the tent than outside, but how do we sustain coherence?” Jonas questioned, emphasising the need for “a minimum program embedded across a broad range of social formations.”
Jonas identified key risks for the GNU, including internal conflicts and public support challenges. With political experience often prevailing over maturity, Jonas warned, “The extent to which the GNU can sustain itself depends on the dynamics within major parties like the ANC and the DA.” He further highlighted that local government elections in 2025 could amplify competition within the GNU, potentially threatening its cohesion.
In a broader context, Jonas outlined the importance of embracing centrist, consensus-driven politics rather than polarising extremes. “Globally, we’re witnessing a contest between anti-democratic populism and a consolidation of centrist politics,” he noted, drawing attention to similar divisions within South Africa. “In our country, it’s becoming a choice between upholding constitutional and democratic rights versus a populist shift,” he explained.
Jonas underscored the need for economic reforms, listing priority areas that include ending load shedding, improving rail and port infrastructure, and tackling crime and corruption. “The minimum program should aim for a stable political center, but that alone won’t guarantee sustainability,” he cautioned, pointing to South Africa’s intertwined challenges of low growth and high inequality.
“We need a new socio-economic exchange,” said Jonas, proposing a “new black productive elite” focused on wealth creation through productivity and innovation. He also called for fresh approaches to industrial, fiscal, and competition policies, and highlighted the role of an inclusive state in fostering innovation and adaptability. “The private sector, civil society, and government must collaborate in building institutions that encourage shared solutions,” he added.
Addressing the question of the GNU’s long-term role, Jonas remarked, “Is the GNU a vehicle to take us somewhere, or is it the destination? Some may see it as just a means, while others view it as an endpoint.” He concluded by urging the need for a democratic reactivation that involves all South Africans in crafting a sustainable vision for growth and transformation.
With South Africa facing complex socio-political and economic challenges, Jonas’ address serves as a call for unity, reform, and resilience. As he aptly summarised: “It’s about constructing a new socio-economic exchange with clear trade-offs – and there are non-negotiables we must respect.”
In chairing a panel discussion that followed, Aldrin Sampear – a prominent anchor from Newzroom Africa and host of “The AM Report” – set a deeply personal tone at a during a panel discussion on economic challenges facing South Africa’s youth. Sharing his journey from an informal settlement to a successful career, Aldrin credited taxpayer-funded initiatives for her progress and highlighted the power of a strong social contract. Her story underscored her question: how can more South African youth escape poverty and avoid the lure of crime?
The discussion between him and the panelists – namely, former president Kgalema Motlanthe, Prof Edward Keiswetter, Prof Firoz Cachalia and Mcebisi Jonas – was marked by calls for actionable reform. Panellists agreed on the need to provide better examples and structural support to youth. Highlighting an “abundance of materialism,” speakers emphasised how today’s youth need stronger role models and a shift away from quick wealth ideals. Additionally, they noted that crime has increasingly become a source of “employment,” revealing a troubling reality driven by desperation.
Addressing these issues, policy experts called for a major overhaul in education and economic strategy. South Africa’s lagging productivity and insufficient job creation were highlighted, especially compared to more progressive economies. Leaders argued for a reimagined approach to education, focusing on modern skills, collaboration, and fostering innovation among the youth. There was also consensus on the necessity of reorienting government spending to expand job opportunities and reduce dependency on social grants, which currently support 26 million citizens but are ultimately unsustainable.
In a broader call to action, panellists urged a united, proactive approach to combating youth poverty and reshaping the future economy. With discussions emphasising policy reform and state accountability, leaders agreed that only a comprehensive and inclusive strategy can offer hope to South Africa’s struggling youth.
One of the points highlighted is that, while the African National Congress’ role in liberation is invaluable, its current framework may need to evolve to address contemporary challenges more effectively. Similarly, there’s a call for the Democratic Alliance (DA) to move beyond a “tribal DNA” that restricts its growth and appeal across broader demographics.
Another intriguing perspective is on China’s model, often seen as ideologically flexible, balancing aspects of communism and capitalism to adapt to global dynamics. The conversation suggests that South Africa could learn from this model by moving beyond ideological constraints.
The potential shift away from a majority-party system also presents an opportunity for new political formations rooted in moderation and unity rather than divisive interests. However, each GNU party must clarify its contribution to the collective vision for South Africa’s future.
It’s unfortunate that time constraints limited further discussion on critical topics like the cost of data, environmental sustainability, and local government’s response to climate change – issues that are essential for socio-economic progress. Perhaps these will be explored in Saturday and Sunday discussions, as they are vital for shaping a more inclusive and prosperous South Africa.
There were two respondents to the speeches and the panel discussion and these were Prof Miriam Altman, 4IR Practice in School of Economics and Water Security Partnerships at the University of johannesburg, and Prof Nick Binedell, Strategy Professor st the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS).
Prof Altman argued for focusing on fundamental institutional and human strengths instead. Speaking on the current state of South Africa’s economic policy, Altman emphasised that resilience, rather than continuous policy reformation, is key to ensuring sustainable progress. “Almost every year, there’s a call for a new growth plan, but I don’t think that’s the answer right now,” Altman stated.
She highlighted three essential dependencies for economic stability: resilient institutions, enhanced human capability, and a shared purpose across sectors. These elements, Altman noted, are not simply idealistic concepts but critical to building a responsive and adaptive system capable of tackling corruption and other structural challenges. “Resilient institutions are the immune system of an organisation. It’s not just about addressing past corruption but building governance and ethics systems that prevent future issues,” she added.
A case in point for Altman has been her recent work with the Department of Water and Sanitation, where she helped establish multi-stakeholder water security platforms in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. The initiative, supported by Treasury, aims to transform water service delivery by collaborating closely with local stakeholders, including civil society and municipal officials. Altman shared her insights from the project, noting that many metropolitan officials are enthusiastic about serving their communities but face significant challenges in engaging the public effectively. “I’ve met incredible people who are dedicated to service delivery,” she said, adding that a lack of connection between government and citizens has fuelled frustration.
One practical solution has been fostering open dialogue between metro officials and community stakeholders. Altman described a recent meeting with municipal leaders and business representatives in Sandton, where open discussion of the challenges around water management led to increased understanding and cooperation. By building trust and transparency, stakeholders from both sides found common ground. “For the first time, there was a sense of shared purpose, with business leaders asking, ‘How can we work together?’” Altman recalled.
Altman believes that only by developing these foundational relationships will South Africa achieve true economic resilience. Her approach advocates for “everybody being an activist” in fostering transparent communication, connection, and a proactive pursuit of solutions.
In a thought-provoking closing response to the session, Prof Nick Binedell highlighted the importance of resilience and the urgent need for transformative action in South Africa. Acknowledging the endurance of attendees who traveled long distances to participate, Binedell emphasised the critical moments shared throughout the event.
Binedell, reflecting on the speeches presented during the forum, expressed a wish that every South African, from schoolchildren to government officials, could access the insights shared. “We have not arrived, but we are in a better place,” he noted, referencing a sense of optimism that has emerged since May 29. He observed that there are signs of progress, or “green shoots,” in various sectors, suggesting a shift in the country’s climate.
Among the key points of his speech, Binedell congratulated Edward, a key figure at the South African Revenue Service (SARS), for successfully integrating artificial intelligence into its operations. He underscored the transformative impact of AI on global dynamics and stressed the need for leaders to grasp its implications.
Binedell also reflected on his travels across Southeast Asia, where he observed the influential role of elites in different political economies. He called for South Africa’s elites in business and civil society to be held accountable, noting that meaningful reform in governance is crucial for the country’s future.
He raised concerns about the state of South Africa’s major cities, highlighting their struggles in fostering creativity and economic prosperity. “We don’t understand how much trouble our cities are in,” he warned, calling for more efficient and innovative governance.
Turning to Africa’s demographics, Binedell noted that the continent’s population could reach 2.5 billion by 2050, with a significant youth bulge. He stressed that without investment in infrastructure and education, South Africa risks missing out on the potential of its burgeoning population. “Education is the raw material of the 21st century,” he asserted, calling for renewed focus on improving the public education system.
As he concluded, Binedell urged attendees to recognise the power of individual choices in shaping the nation’s future. He echoed the sentiment that the past often dictates the future but emphasised the importance of proactive leadership in breaking this cycle. “Let’s leave here with an action plan,” he said, urging all present to translate discussions into tangible outcomes.
Binedell’s address resonated with many, reinforcing the need for collective action to address the challenges facing South Africa while seizing the opportunities that lie ahead.
The event was sponsored by ABSA, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, the European Union, and Champagne Sports Resort. The program director, Maurizio Mariano, trustee and Secretary of the KMF Board, was occasionally relieved by panel facilitators, broadcasters Aldrin Sampear and Iman Rappetti.
Tujenge Afrika Pamoja! Let’s Build Africa Together!
Enjoy your weekend.
Saul Molobi (FCIM)
PUBLISHER: JAMBO AFRICA ONLINE
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