In responding to the State of the Nation Address delivered by President Zuma this morning, the CEO of the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr Neren Rau said

"The South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, (SACCI), welcomes the positive statements made by President Zuma in his State of the Nation address. The priorities are sound and areas where business can expect proactive government action bode well for future trade and investment.

Undertakings to address serious issues related to crime and security are long overdue.  SACCI looks forward to measurable improvements in the reduction of crime at all levels and to improved efficiencies in the judicial system.  SACCI will engage government on its detailed strategies and align our anti-crime programmes to theirs.

Promises to address health and education are welcomed.  Indeed, it is a key requirement of business that the workforce is healthy and skilled; albeit that it is recognized that measurable improvements will not be seen in the short term.

SACCI is encouraged by the proposals relating to the extension of telecommunications services to rural areas and by the prospect of reduced telecommunications costs.  SACCI has, through its membership, committed to addressing the challenge of rural connectivity and we look forward to government’s support in this regard.

The State of the Nation address was comprehensive in its identification and prioritization of the challenges facing South Africa currently.  The tone of the President’s address supported by the promise of improved economic activity and growth is encouraging to business and should promote business confidence.  We anticipate that the delivery and implementation of the strategies outlined in the Address would be as sound as the promises and commitments made in the Address."