South African President Cyril Ramaphosa held his inaugural meeting with members of the Eminent Persons Group on Tuesday, 22 June 2021. This meeting marked an important milestone in the country’s efforts to drive socio-economic transformation and promote equality.
The Eminent Persons Group (EPG) is a body of distinguished individuals who have been appointed by the South African government to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act. This Act aims to promote the participation of historically disadvantaged individuals in the economy and address the imbalances of the past.
President Ramaphosa, who has made economic transformation a key priority of his administration, welcomed the EPG members to the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The President emphasized the role of B-BBEE in creating a more inclusive economy and called on the EPG to play a vital role in monitoring its implementation.
During his address, President Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the EPG members in ensuring that B-BBEE is effectively implemented across various industries. He also highlighted the importance of the EPG’s independence and unbiased approach to their work.
The EPG is made up of individuals from various sectors including business, labour, and civil society. The President acknowledged the diverse backgrounds and expertise of the EPG members, which he believes will contribute to a more comprehensive and effective evaluation of B-BBEE.
The meeting was also an opportunity for the EPG to present their annual report to the President. The report outlined the progress made in implementing B-BBEE and identified areas that require further attention. President Ramaphosa commended the EPG for their thorough and detailed report, which will assist the government in identifying areas for improvement.
In his closing remarks, President Ramaphosa reassured the EPG of his commitment to economic transformation and urged them to continue their crucial work in ensuring that B-BBEE is successful in achieving its objectives. He also encouraged the EPG members to engage with the government and provide recommendations on how to improve the implementation of B-BBEE.
The meeting between President Ramaphosa and the EPG is a positive step towards creating an economy that is more inclusive and reflective of South Africa’s diverse population. The President’s willingness to engage with the EPG and his focus on economic transformation demonstrate his commitment to creating a fair and equal society for all.
Furthermore, the EPG’s role in monitoring and evaluating the implementation of B-BBEE is vital in ensuring that the Act achieves its intended goals. Their independent and unbiased approach to their work is commendable and will contribute greatly to the success of B-BBEE.
The meeting with the EPG also sends a message to the international community that South Africa is serious about addressing past injustices and creating an economy that benefits all its citizens. It is a clear demonstration of the government’s efforts to build a more inclusive society and promote economic growth.
In conclusion, President Ramaphosa’s inaugural meeting with the Eminent Persons Group showed a united commitment towards achieving economic transformation in South Africa. The government and the EPG, together with other stakeholders, will continue to work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all. As President Ramaphosa has stated, economic transformation is a journey that requires continuous effort and collaboration, and the EPG will play a pivotal role in this process.
