Activist Jesse Jackson talks economic apartheid at business breakfast

American civil rights activist Jesse Jackson met with Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN) in Sandton to discuss business opportunities in the province.

Acting chief executive Neville Matjie used the opportunity to promote business and investment opportunities in KwaZulu-Natal and showcase the organisation’s service offering. Matjie also said that the event would give them an opportunity to engage with others to offer assistance and discuss possible collaborations.

Ina Cronjé, the chairperson of the board for TIKZN said, “In terms of democracy, we are still young, we are still growing and we have a lot of work to do. There is no room for complacency and I think one of the areas where we have to do an awful lot is actually encouraging people to assist us to grow this economy.” She added that it is also essential to ensure that the growth assists all South Africans.

Jackson said that while the political apartheid has ended, the economic effects are still felt by many people. “South Africa is too rich to have so many poor people, poverty is expensive.

“The way I see it, there isn’t a talent shortage, there’s an opportunity shortage, and you need to break the cycle of incestuous business relationships. Effort and excellence mean a lot but inheritance and access mean more. You will forever be locked out unless you demand your place,” Jackson added.

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