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EZEKIEL PHALANA
Acting Premier of Gauteng, Ms Faith Mazibuko, today reaffirmed Gauteng’s commitment to driving economic growth, regional integration, innovation and sustainable development during her keynote address at the 19th Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Officers Conference (CSPOC) Africa Region Conference held at Emperor’s Palace Conference Centre.
Addressing parliamentary leaders, government representatives, diplomats and delegates from across the African continent, Acting Premier Mazibuko welcomed participants to Gauteng and highlighted the province’s strategic role as South Africa’s economic hub and a gateway to investment and trade on the continent.
The conference, held on South Africa’s Youth Day, provided an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices of the youth of 1976 while focusing on the future of Africa’s development. Acting Premier Mazibuko emphasised that the continent’s future prosperity depends on decisions made today to create opportunities for young people and build inclusive economies.
“Gauteng may be the smallest province geographically, but it remains the economic heart of South Africa and one of the most dynamic regions on the African continent. Our province continues to serve as a gateway for trade, investment, innovation and skills development,” said Acting Premier Mazibuko.
The Acting Premier outlined the Gauteng Provincial Government’s priorities, which include growing the economy, creating jobs, modernising infrastructure, strengthening public services, enhancing community safety, accelerating digital transformation and building sustainable cities that improve the quality of life for all residents.
She stressed that economic growth must be inclusive and benefit young people, women, entrepreneurs and historically marginalised communities. This commitment, she noted, guides Gauteng’s efforts to attract investment while ensuring that development creates broad-based opportunities for all.
Highlighting the importance of regional cooperation, Acting Premier Mazibuko underscored Gauteng’s support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing it as a transformative opportunity to unlock intra-African trade, stimulate industrial development and expand markets across the continent.
“Our province occupies a unique position as a bridge between South Africa and the broader African continent. Gauteng is strategically positioned to support Africa’s integration agenda through its advanced financial services sector, manufacturing base, logistics capabilities and innovation ecosystems,” she said.
The Acting Premier also acknowledged the growing contribution of South African companies operating across Africa, noting their role in driving investment, skills transfer, technological advancement and job creation. She called for stronger partnerships among African nations to build regional value chains, support local industries and foster sustainable economic growth.
Looking ahead, Acting Premier Mazibuko outlined Gauteng’s vision of becoming Africa’s leading global city region—one that is globally connected, economically competitive, technologically advanced and environmentally sustainable.
“We envision Gauteng as a province that attracts investment, talent and innovation from across the world while serving as a platform for African growth. Global relevance and African solidarity are mutually reinforcing objectives that will define our future success,” she said.
The Acting Premier further highlighted the importance of ethical leadership, corporate governance, sustainability and accountability in advancing economic development and social progress. She described the CSPOC Africa Region Conference as a valuable platform for strengthening collaboration between government, business and civil society in pursuit of shared continental prosperity.
Concluding her address, Acting Premier Mazibuko encouraged delegates to use the conference to generate practical solutions, forge stronger partnerships and advance a collective vision of a prosperous, innovative and globally influential Africa.
The Acting Premier subsequently introduced the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, who attended the conference on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa.