Sandton Convention Centre hosts transformation review

Situated in the economic hub of Africa, Sandton, the convention centre created the ideal platform to discuss the critical issue of whether South Africa’s legal and policy framework helps or hinders true economic transformation.

The event was sponsored by the Industrial Development Corporation, the Eskom Development Foundation, the National African Federated Chamber of Commerce , Glenfiddich, and Mail & Guardian. The stage was set for a full day of lively debate when, after the opening proceedings Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe addressed delegates, detailing how the current democratic state can be proud of what has been achieved, but should also recognise its failures.

The Summit was pivotal in highlighting the learnings, successes and failures of the past 20 years, with a view to identifying focus areas for the future. Key issues debated by the panel included economic growth, small, medium and micro enterprises, broad-based black economic empowerment, the need for active participation by communities in the programmes designed to address their needs, and inflation and debt levels, with insights shared by our country’s opinion leaders.

Commenting on the significance of Sandton Convention Centre hosting this event, executive director Mati Nyazema said, “The hosting of an event which reviewed South Africa’s 20 years of transformation ahead of the anniversary of South Africa’s independence in April was fitting in that Sandton Convention Centre could be considered one of the success stories of our country’s transformation.

“Twenty years ago the Sandton Convention Centre did not exist, and today it is a thriving platform for ideas on critical issues such as health, rejuvenation of the city, environmental awareness, the role of the youth, mayoral interventions such as the C40 Summit and so much more, not to mention providing a venue for cultural events that are tourism drivers. We are extremely proud to be one of the successes of a transformed South Africa and to have hosted an event that highlights South Africa’s journey over the last two decades.”