Over R332-billion pledged at Sandton investment conference

The fourth South African Investment Conference kicked off in Sandton with a phenomenal R332-billion in investments pledged.

The conference, which took place on March 24 at the Sandton Convention Centre, aims to showcase the investment opportunities available in South African with the objective of growing the economy, which has been badly impacted by the pandemic and a worldwide economic slowdown.

Officially opening the conference, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that global investors have pledged an estimated R332 billion to help the country’s economy.

“It is nearly four years since we embarked on the ambitious drive to raise R1.2 trillion in new investment over five years.

“Despite the impact of the pandemic, by the time of the 3rd South Africa Investment Conference in 2020, we had raised a total of R774 billion in investment commitments – we are two-thirds of the way to reaching our target.”

Ramaphosa added that the investment that has been realised since the first conference has created job opportunities, increased localisation and expanded local value chains.

“As investors, you need to know that your investments are secure, that the operating environment is stable, and that you are supported by policy certainty and regulatory safeguards.

“We are forging ahead to transform our economy, to unlock our country’s potential and to create meaningful livelihoods for all our people. And we are determined to leave no one behind.”