Celebrating President Ramaphosa at 70

South African President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa will be 70 years old this week 17th November 2022. In the modern history of Africa, he has been described as the most industrious, innovative and humble leader other African Heads of States and Governments should emulate.

The Silverton siege sparked what eventually became the Free Nelson Mandela Campaign. Mandela regained his freedom in February 1990 and eventually became Republic of South African President. African National Congress was the political front for this actualization; but it was actually the expressed efforts of well-spirited South Africans and friends across all shades of colours, that culminated in the liberties and shared prosperity prevalent today.

The South African Black Empowerment Commission was established as a special purpose institution to provide affirmative support for South African people who were marginalized and excluded under the apartheid regime. It is on record that Cyril Ramaphosa presided as Chairman of that Commission and performed creditably, introduced innovations and set South African outputs as a reliable standard for global integration and excellence.

This antecedent becomes appreciated in view of the fact that South Africa under President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa is the only African Country in BRICS, the powerful grouping of the world’s leading emerging market economies. In view of the uncertainties created by Covid-19 and other global upheavals, South Africa has now become the sterling beacon which other African countries must tilt towards.

President Ramaphosa’s ability to spot unusual talents and deploy for the good of South Africans has been extremely useful in promoting peace, security, development and cooperation. It also contributes significantly to the establishment of a more equitable and fairer world. He has remained consistent as a Party man, a true disciple of Nelson Mandela, an outstanding compassionate labour leader, and a statesman committed to the wellbeing of the people.

In a recent interview with AfricaSignal, Kolawole David of OceanSpring Transnational described Cyril Ramaphosa as a great man who provides effective leadership and support, commits to black empowerment, and passionate about increasing local content and minority participation in the economy.

He said “I started working with Ramaphosa at Molope Group in 1999. I run a chain of businesses now but he remains my boss. He has a way of balancing affirmative commitments with skills and entrepreneurial drive that could deliver better prospects and fulfillment for the South African
people. His ability at providing economic opportunities and empowerment for previously disadvantaged individuals, skills transfer, job creation across all sectors remains exemplary”.

His Excellency President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa is a world-class leader whose guidance and direction have been truly inspirational for many Africans. He is committed to broad-based black economic empowerment, meeting localization objectives and transforming South Africa’s economy for inclusive participation. His network remains extensive, and he enjoys a well-earned goodwill from every sector in South Africa and across the world.

 

(Samuel Odebowale. Originally Published by Africa Signal)