Executive Manager Region 2.
Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, Good morning! Dumelang! Goie more! Avuxeni! Molweni!
It is a privilege to stand before you today to deliver the keynote address at the 44th Annual Productivity SA National Awards. Today is not just a celebration; it is a testament to the remarkable journey of progress and commitment.
These awards are a testament to the tenacity and ingenuity of our SMMEs. In every corner of our country, they persevere, innovate, and overcome the most formidable odds. They do not seek the spotlight, but they certainly deserve it. They are the unsung heroes of our economy, and our commitment to empowering them remains steadfast.
So, as we celebrate the resilience and resourcefulness of our SMMEs today, let us remember that the spirit of these awards is measured by the heartwarming stories of perseverance, innovation, and dedication we are about to witness.
Today, as we gather to celebrate productivity excellence, we must also recognise the challenges South Africa faces. Unemployment remains a pressing concern for our nation, and it's a challenge that touches the very heart of the National Development Plan (NDP). This plan outlines our vision for a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous South Africa.
The NDP emphasises the need to create employment and drive economic growth as the means to uplift the lives of South Africans. It recognises that without productivity improvements, we cannot achieve these crucial objectives. Productivity SA, in alignment with the NDP, has a pivotal role in realising this vision. SMMEs do more than create employment as they are also productive drivers and engines of economic growth and social development.
The pursuit of productivity is not just about numbers and statistics; it's about the lives we touch, the futures we shape, and the legacies we leave. It's about the innovative spirit that propels us forward, the relentless determination that overcomes adversity, and the unshakable belief that we can make a difference.
The Productivity Awards are more than accolades; they are the embodiment of a collective dream. A dream that envisions a South Africa where every business, regardless of its size, thrives; where every worker,
irrespective of their background, prospers; and where our nation, as a whole, surges toward a brighter tomorrow.
Today, as we celebrate the achievements of those who have harnessed the power of productivity to lead the way, let us remember that we are not merely celebrating success; we are nurturing the seeds of a better future for South Africa. The fact that between 2014 and 2022, 360 companies had participated in the Annual National Productivity awards bears testament to this.
In the words of the great Nelson Mandela, 'It always seems impossible until it's done.' The challenges before us may seem formidable, but together, we have the power to transform the impossible into the possible. The journey starts here, in this room, among the remarkable individuals I see before me.
Productivity SA has a pivotal role in the progress of our great nation. Their mandate to enhance productivity and competitiveness is not just a mission; it's a catalyst for change, and it resonates profoundly with the Department
of Employment and Labour's objectives. We, at the Department of Employment and Labour, understand that by improving productivity, we directly contribute to the creation and retention of employment opportunities. We are united in our vision of a South Africa where every citizen has the chance to not only find a job but to thrive in it.
On the global stage, we understand the importance of collaboration. Just last month, the Department of Employment and Labour played a pivotal role in the hosting of the BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers' Meeting (LEMM), held from September 28th to September 29th. This international collaboration allows us to exchange ideas, best practices, and insights, all aimed at creating more inclusive and productive labour markets.
The role of productivity ladies and gentlemen cannot be overemphasised. It is crucial that we focus our attention on what matters to improve our productivity. There are many lessons to learn from other countries about some principles of productivity that South Africa can apply,
which have worked in other countries. Some of these include the following:
Education and skills development are foundational for improving productivity. A well-educated and skilled workforce is more adaptable and innovative. Finland's focus on education has resulted in a highly skilled workforce and a strong knowledge-based economy.
Embracing innovation and adopting new technologies can significantly boost productivity across industries. The United States, with its culture of innovation, has been a leader in adopting technology and achieving high levels of productivity.
High-quality infrastructure, including transportation, energy, and communication systems, is crucial for productivity improvements. Countries such as Japan have demonstrated that efficient and well-maintained infrastructure has contributed to its manufacturing and export success.
Investment in research and development (R&D) leads to new discoveries and technological advancements, fostering productivity growth. South Korea is a great example of how investment in R&D has driven productivity increases in sectors like electronics and automotive manufacturing.
Streamlining regulations and reducing bureaucratic hurdles can improve the ease of doing business, thus enhancing productivity. Singapore's pro-business regulatory environment has attracted investment and driven productivity gains.
Encouraging entrepreneurship and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can lead to economic diversification and job creation. Germany's Mittelstand, a group of small and medium-sized enterprises, has been a driving force in the country's productivity and economic growth.
Prioritising employee training, engagement, and well- being can lead to a more motivated and productive workforce. Denmark's work-life balance and emphasis on employee well-being have contributed to high levels of worker productivity.
Incorporating sustainability principles into business operations can lead to long-term productivity and cost savings. The Netherlands' sustainable agriculture practices have improved productivity while reducing environmental impact.
Encouraging businesses to continually seek ways to improve processes and outcomes can drive productivity growth. Japan's Kaizen philosophy emphasises continuous improvement in manufacturing processes.
Collaboration between the public and private sectors can address infrastructure needs and stimulate economic development. The United Arab Emirates has demonstrated that partnerships have played a vital role in the development of infrastructure and increased productivity.
As you can see ladies and gentlemen, undeniable facts about productivity are that:
To our award winners, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. Your dedication to productivity improvements is not only commendable; it is essential to our nation's growth. Your success is a testament to the potential that resides within each and every company in South Africa.
To SMME owners in our midst today, I encourage you to be resilient, to dream big, and to never underestimate the impact of your hard work. Remember that it's through innovation and productivity that you can realise your dreams and contribute significantly to our nation's prosperity.
In conclusion, I leave you with the words of former U.S. President, John F. Kennedy, "Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction." The purpose and direction we seek are to build a South Africa that is
prosperous, equitable, and driven by productivity. Productivity SA, the Department of Employment and Labour, and each one of you present today are essential players in this journey.
Let us continue to inspire one another, to motivate our businesses, and to push the boundaries of what is possible. Together, we can create a brighter future for South Africa, where productivity reigns, and all our people thrive.
Kea leboga.
© 2019 - The South African Department of Employment & Labour
