Three Keys to a New South Africa

This research paper outlines three critical areas of reform required for Cyril Ramaphosa to restore South Africa's national strength and international standing following the presidency of Jacob Zuma. The author argues that the country must restore the rule of law, reform the management of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and invest in education to combat high youth unemployment and economic stagnation.

• The first urgent priority for the new leadership is restoring public confidence in the rule of law and vital institutions, which were compromised by Jacob Zuma's "capture" of cabinet appointments, the National Prosecuting Authority, and businesses.
• South Africa must reform the state's relationship with state-owned enterprises (SOEs), which were previously used for personal gain, to support economic growth and development.
• The mining sector, specifically deposits of manganese and chrome essential for wind turbines and electric vehicles, could drive upstream manufacturing growth if the state overhauls legislation and regulation to restore trust with the industry.
• To address a youth unemployment rate of 39%, the government needs to invest in the education system, with a specific recommendation to prioritize early childhood education.
• South Africa should reassert its regional influence and international credibility by pursuing an integrated investment strategy and engaging with economic groups such as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, and China).

APA

South African Institute of International Affairs (2018). Three Keys to a New South Africa. https://saiia.org.za/research/three-keys-to-a-new-south-africa/

Chicago

South African Institute of International Affairs. Three Keys to a New South Africa. 2018. https://saiia.org.za/research/three-keys-to-a-new-south-africa/.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |author=South African Institute of International Affairs |title=Three Keys to a New South Africa |date=16 February 2018 |url=https://saiia.org.za/research/three-keys-to-a-new-south-africa/ |access-date=17 August 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{southafricaninstituteofinternationalaffairs2018three, author = {{South African Institute of International Affairs}}, title = {{Three Keys to a New South Africa}}, institution = {South African Institute of International Affairs}, year = {2018}, month = feb, url = {https://saiia.org.za/research/three-keys-to-a-new-south-africa/}, urldate = {2026-08-17}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }