Business 'encouraged' by Zuma
4 June 2009
South African business was encouraged by President Jacob Zuma's first State of the Nation address, the SA Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Sacci) said following Zuma's speech in Cape Town on Wednesday.
"The priorities are sound, and areas where business can expect proactive government action bode well for future trade and investment," Sacci CEO Neren Rau said in a statement.
The undertakings to tackle crime and safety were long overdue, Rau added, saying Sacci "looks forward to measurable improvements in the reduction of crime at all levels and to improved efficiencies in the judicial system.
"Sacci will engage government on its detailed strategies and align our anti-crime programmes to theirs."
Re-skilling workers
Turning to Zuma's mention of an agreement in principle between the government and its social partners on the introduction of training for laid-off workers, Rau said that, while this would address the dilemma facing business regarding retrenchments, it remained to be seen if the Sector Education and Training Authorities would be able to provide the required support.
Rau welcomed Zuma's promises to address health and education.
"Indeed, it is a key requirement of business that the workforce is healthy and skilled; albeit that it is recognised that measurable improvements will not be seen in the short term."
Rural telecoms boost
Sacci was encouraged by Zuma's proposals on the extension of telecommunications services to rural areas and by the prospect of reduced telecommunications costs.
"Sacci has, through its membership, committed to addressing the challenge of rural connectivity and we look forward to government's support in this regard," Rau said.
Sapa
