Economists optimistic about South Africa's growth forecast

ECONOMISTS believe South Africa is on track for stronger economic growth this year after the country ended last year on a higher economic trajectory.

- THAMI MAGUBANE

They point to the strengthening of the rand against other currencies, including the dollar, as well as the growth of GDP as positive signs for the economy.

Experts suggest that if the country addresses some of its macroeconomic policies that undermine investor confidence, the economy could grow at a rate that creates jobs.

Economic Professor Bonke Dumisa said the South African rand has strengthened to R16.49/US$ against the US dollar, the strongest it has been in more than a year, since before 2026.

"South Africa also had a significant trade surplus of R37.7 billion in November 2026 against the rest of the world, including Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Namibia. Do not allow those who deliberately downplay our economic successes to undermine the economic recovery in South Africa," Dumisa urged. "Shout it out that things are improving in South Africa despite all the detractors who always lie about our country, including the blatant lie about 'white genocide."