Audio By Carbonatix
South Africa’s economic recovery plans face serious constraints with growing debt of state firms domestically and capital outflows as a result of global trade tensions, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said on Monday.
In October the global lender said it saw Africa’s most industrialised economy expanding by 0.8 percent in 2018, down from a prior forecast of 1.5 percent. South Africa’s Treasury predicts growth of 0.7 percent.
The recession-bound economy and a bleak budget in October have piled pressure on President Cyril’s Ramaphosa.
“Some of the initial optimism has dissipated as growth remains stuck in low gear and reform implementation has faced constraints,” the IMF said, naming the state power firm Eskom as a key risk.
The president’s work is made harder by cash-strapped state-owned firms, including debt-ridden Eskom, which is struggling to supply the nation’s power.
The IMF said the proposal to amend property laws to allow for expropriation without compensation should be carefully considered and be guided by lessons of international experience.
“Land reform should focus on enhancing agricultural productivity and strengthening tenure security,” said the IMF.
A parliamentary team has recommended a constitutional amendment to make it possible for the state to expropriate land without compensation.
The recommendation will now go to the national assembly for a vote.
Latest Stories
-
FoSCel founder urges awareness, care for sickle cell patients
14 minutes -
FoSCel Fun Fair 2026 engages students and public in nationwide push for sickle cell awareness
18 minutes -
Mahama gives me money every month – BullGod
22 minutes -
Historic Legal Education Bill will transform Ghana School of Law – Ansa-Asare
37 minutes -
Suhuyini launches 1Heart Fund, disburses interest-free loans to 23 women’s groups in Tamale North
59 minutes -
GoldBod warns against gold hoarding, announces district buying centres
1 hour -
Prince Amoako Junior scores winner as Nordsjaelland beat Copenhagen
1 hour -
CETAG suspends strike following government release of outstanding funds
1 hour -
Ghana School of Law’s entrance exam designed to exclude, not judge ability – Daniel Korang
1 hour -
AU adopts Ghana-led resolution by consensus, Mahama outlines global diplomatic push
2 hours -
New PESCO Old Students’ leadership promises to reposition association
2 hours -
Every African object unjustly held abroad must be returned – Mahama demands restitution
2 hours -
AU Summit: President Mahama advocates for continental resolution on enslavement
2 hours -
Amin Adam slams NDC’s economic management
3 hours -
President Mahama urges global support on reparatory justice at AU Summit
3 hours
