'South Africa’s economy may be turning a corner after decade of decline'

After a decade of economic decline, South Africa may finally be turning a corner, according to Enthoven.

He highlights reforms in key sectors such as electricity, freight rail, ports, and water infrastructure, which he says could signal a positive shift in the country’s long-term trajectory.

He stresses that, while the evidence points to change, the turnaround remains fragile. 

"There are many things that can get in the way of its success. If anything, what we need to be doing now is looking to accelerate this turnaround and look at all of the potential obstacles. "

Corruption, organised crime, and political uncertainty could still undermine progress, Enthoven warns, emphasising the need for sustained focus on structural reforms and good governance. 

"If we don't do that, and those organised criminal networks are allowed over time to undermine and weaken and ultimately destroy our institutions, then all of this other stuff becomes kind of irrelevant. "

For Enthoven, the country’s future depends not only on government action but also on maintaining a reasonable political consensus and engaging South Africans in believing in the economy’s recovery.

To listen to Enthoven in conversation with CapeTalk's John Maytham, click below: