The Money Show Govt launches revamped recovery plan as Glencore, Discovery Green sign long-term energy pact
Oct 6, 2025
Ferial Haffajee, Associate Editor at Daily Maverick, joins the conversation to analyze the ANC's new economic recovery plan and its political implications. She discusses whether the plan can genuinely address South Africa's prolonged growth and unemployment issues. The discussion reveals the stark challenges posed by state capacity and delves into the political motives behind the timing of these measures. Additionally, they touch on the significance of a renewable energy deal between Glencore and Discovery Green, highlighting its potential impact on energy supply.
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Capacity, Not Promises, Drives Implementation
- Dr Iraj Abedian argues the ANC plan repeats old promises and lacks new capacity to implement them.
- He says a weakened, dysfunctional state and lack of skilled officials block delivery.
Energy Is Necessary But Not Sufficient
- Cheap electricity alone won't revive smelters without functioning rail, ports and competitive costs.
- Abedian warns global contracts and competitors already lock in production elsewhere.
Treat Political Promises With Skepticism
- Ferial Haffajee warns the ANC announcement is timed for political cycles and elections.
- She implies stakeholders should treat the plan skeptically and demand concrete policy shifts.
