The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes Premier Oscar Mabuyane’s commitment to promoting export-led growth and leveraging global markets to create economic opportunities and prosperity for the Eastern Cape.
We also welcome the Premier’s commitment to host an economic summit in the province, as was called for by the DA during the debates on the State of the Province Address.
A recent report by the Eastern Cape Socio-Economic Consultative Council (ECSECC) has shown that the provincial economy is in recession, having declined for three consecutive quarters.
Our province, rich in resources and potential, has three ports and many agricultural, agro-processing, manufacturing, and tourism opportunities, but it faces unprecedented challenges.
The Premier, whilst speaking at the EC Export Symposium, relayed the importance of enhancing the export capabilities of the province and put forth his Trade Vision for the Eastern Cape . Impressive export figures achieved in Q1 of 2024 – – indicates that great potential that exists within the province and that global markets could continue to bring an influx of business to the Eastern Cape.
While we are encouraged by these figures, and the Premier’s commitments, we urge the provincial government to provide clear, actionable plans with timelines to ensure that pledges made at the symposium will translate into tangible outcomes for our province – especially when it comes to creating more opportunities for businesses, which will ultimately translate into more desperately needed jobs.
Building on the insights provided by Andrew Whitfield, Deputy Minister of the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition on the current trade landscape in the province, and country, the DA remains dedicated to working with the provincial government to provide solutions, ideas and inputs on the Premier’s Trade Vision.
We will continue to hold the government accountable by following up on commitments made, especially in terms of the critical infrastructure upgrades that are required throughout the province to bring this vision to life.
In unison with Premier Mabuyane’s optimism, the DA envisions a thriving Eastern Cape where the economy is flourishing and where there is opportunity for all.
I reaffirm the Democratic Alliance’s commitment to the spirit of the GNU. We are ready to assist provincial government where needed to ensure that the vision put forth by the Premier can become a reality.
We are committed to elevating the Eastern Cape to new heights of opportunity and prosperity – we will ensure that we get to work to bring change to the people of this province!
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