World Economic Forum arrives in Cape Town this June

Originally founded in 1971 by Klaus Schwab, the World Economic Forum in an international non-for profit organisation that brings a variety of leaders together to generate ideas and strategies that will help drive sustainable development. The next event takes place in Cape Town, South Africa from 3rd to 5th June.

Under the theme, Then and Now: Re-Imagining Africa’s Future, the World Economic Forum will convene regional and global leaders from business, government and civil society. They will take stock of the continent’s progress over the last 25 years, share insights on the present landscape and identify innovative approaches to accelerate inclusive growth while bringing about sustainable development in the future.

As China buys up huge tranches of land for future food production, so the money begins to pour into the region in order to build the infrastructure that will be needed to enable a new and far more subtle exploitation.

While the morals may be dubious, there’s no doubting the impact that a billion working-age Africans will have on the global economy. This workforce should reach its full potential 2040 – at which point it will be larger than either China or India.

The year 2015 is also significant for Africa, as it marks the end of global, regional and local efforts to meet the Millennium Development Goals aimed at eradicating poverty. Visit the World Economic Forum on Africa to find out more.

Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe is the South African executive Chairperson of the Motsepe Foundation and chair of African Fashion International, as well as an influencer within the World Economic Forum.

“I am a firm believer in the ability of South African fashion designers can help contribute to growth in the local market”, says Precious. “We must work to help develop young talent in our country – and to help promote and expose South African designers to the global fashion market”.

Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe