BUSINESS NEWS
Managers 'can make a difference'
Posted Mon, 26 Jun 2006
Managers can help South Africa overcome such crippling problems as poverty, racial divisions and resistance to gender equality, President Thabo Mbeki said on Friday. He was addressing members of the Black Management Forum at the forum's 30th anniversary celebrations held at Emperor's Palace near Kempton Park. "I am convinced we can overcome our problems. But that could only be possible when managers effectively manage processes of change," Mbeki said. "BMF members constitute the front-line of troops to our society's change. Happy birthday and thanks a lot for what you mean to our country."
Just before president Mbeki took to the podium to address the cream of South African business, BMF president Nolitha Fakude praised him for his unwavering support for women empowerment. "We acknowledge your clear and focused vision for this country, especially women and children," she said. "We also salute you for being a global leader on our behalf. It is an honour
and privilege to have a president who proudly represents us and other African countries." Fakude went on to address BMF members and their guests on the challenges that lay before them.
"BMF has been in existence for the past thirty years and twelve of those were under the democratic government. "It should therefore be noted that issues of equity are still not addressed properly. It is particularly difficult for women to break through into the private sector's managerial positions, which will not only foresee gender equity, but women empowerment as well," she said. Also present were Reserve Bank governor Tito Mboweni, Limpopo premier Trott Moloto, Minerals and Energy Minister Buyelwa Sonjica, businessperson Saki Macozoma.
Sapa
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