Economist Podcasts Tunnel, no lights: South Africa’s crumbling infrastructure
Jan 27, 2023
John McDermott, Chief Africa correspondent for The Economist, discusses South Africa's dire infrastructure crisis, focusing on the rampant mismanagement of state-owned enterprises like Eskom. He highlights how energy blackouts are fueling public discontent and sparking national protests. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe pays tribute to Ronald Blythe, a celebrated rural writer whose reflections on community and nature echo the struggles of traditional life amidst modern challenges. Their insights paint a vivid picture of a nation at a crossroads.
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South Africa's Energy Crisis
- South Africa's president, Cyril Ramaphosa, skipped Davos to address a national energy crisis.
- Protests erupted in Pretoria over extensive blackouts impacting productivity and patience.
Transnet's Troubles
- South Africa's crumbling infrastructure affects Transnet, the state-owned rail freight company.
- Transnet's struggles impact exports, causing billions in lost revenue.
Eskom's Similar Struggles
- Eskom, the energy company, faces similar issues to Transnet, plagued by corruption, mismanagement, and worsening conditions.
- Scheduled blackouts have reduced GDP growth and increased public frustration.
