13 ways ANC plans to resuscitate the economy

The public has reacted with mixed reactions to the African National Congress’ 13-point strategy, with opinions split between indifference and cautious optimism. The plan, unveiled at during the party’s policy conference at Gallagher Estate, Johannesburg aims at resuscitating the ailing economy.

1. Eskom should revamp aging power stations in partnership with private industry, while a detailed cost-benefit analysis should be undertaken into the viability of building new nuclear plants.
2. Manufacturing incentives should be reviewed to ensure they support jobs. State backing should be given to the steel and agricultural industries.
3. Laws regulating the oil and gas industry should be finalised to provide certainty to investors.
4. A standoff with the mining industry over black-empowerment requirements must be urgently resolved.
5. Consideration should be given toward implementing a wealth tax.
6. The budget should focus on investment rather than consumption expenditure.
7. A pact should be concluded with the financial services industry to secure funding for infrastructure projects on favourable terms.
8. A minimum wage should be implemented once a study into an appropriate level has been implemented.
9. The implementation of a national health insurance plan should be accelerated and the state should ensure the necessary financing is made available.
10. The government should press ahead with laws that will ensure all private security companies are locally owned.
11. State workers should be periodically rotated to reduce the possibility of them forming corrupt relationships.
12. Lifestyle audits should be undertaken for state workers.
13. An agency should be established to vet all strategic state workers and officials at state-owned companies.