Naspers, led by South African billionaire Koos Bekker, anticipates significant economic gains from e-commerce and digital platforms. By 2035, these sectors are expected to add R91.4 billion 5.2 billion to South Africa's economy, accounting for 1.38 percent of the GDP.
This projection is based on research by Naspers in collaboration with the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection Mistra. The study highlights that the economic benefits could materialize even sooner if the country's growth rate improves to around 3 percent. Mistra's Senior Researcher Machete Rakabe stressed the necessity of infrastructure upgrades, including enhanced data centers and digital identity systems, to fully leverage digital platforms' potential.
Naspers aims for inclusive growthDespite ongoing challenges such as energy shortages and deteriorating infrastructure, which have limited South Africa's GDP growth to less than 1 percent over the past decade, digital platforms currently contribute approximately R5 billion 281.6 million to the economy. The new government of national unity, formed after the May 29 elections, might accelerate needed reforms and investments.
Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa, CEO of Naspers South Africa, underscored the company's commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth. She noted that the global shift towards digital platforms offers a significant opportunity for South Africa, potentially creating up to 340,000 jobs by 2035 in a country with one of the highest unemployment rates.
