Governance of State-owned enterprises in South Africa: enhancing performance, efficiency and service delivery: Report of proceedings

Abstract

The report details the proceedings of a high-level policy dialogue held on July 26, 2022, in Johannesburg, South Africa, focusing on the governance of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) in the country. It highlights the critical role SOEs play in providing essential public services and supporting national development, while also addressing the governance and performance challenges they face. The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) commissioned a study to explore ways to enhance the performance, efficiency, and service delivery of SOEs, particularly in light of the issues of poverty and inequality in South Africa. The dialogue brought together various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society, and academia, to discuss the findings of the study and share experiences from other countries. Key recommendations included the need for clearer legal frameworks, merit-based appointments for boards of directors, and the establishment of specialized ownership units to shield SOEs from political interference. The report emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure the effective functioning of SOEs and their contribution to economic growth and development.