‘GNU must foster dignity’

CONFERENCE: POLITICAL LEADERSHIP CHALLENGED TO EMPOWER ALL SOUTH AFRICANS

- Brian Sokutu

The key challenge confronting the fledgling government of national unity (GNU) is ensuring that South Africa escapes from the grip of the past through creating conditions allowing a life of dignity for all people.

This is the view of Gugu Motlanthe, executive trustee of the Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation (KMF).

Defining the challenge for the GNU political leadership in her keynote address at the 2024 KMF inclusive growth forum in Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal, Motlanthe said the battle for the economic empowerment of society remained paramount.

The conference was attended by captains of industry, economists, high-profile politicians and analysts.

"This can only happen through a leadership that is focused on the future of the country."

"A new social accord and contract is needed between the people and the GNU," Motlanthe said.

She said poverty should be prioritised.

"Now that the GNU is in place, we expect the pooling of resources to deal with the poverty pandemic. In South Africa, income poverty is immense, especially for women and the youth."