FS-India business dialogue unearths opportunities

By Emily Setona

BLOEMFONTEIN – The High Commissioner of the Republic of India to South Africa, Sri Prabhat Kumar, has highlighted the success India has achieved in uplifting its people out of poverty, expressing optimism that strengthened relations with the Free State province could bring similar benefits.

In a ground-breaking business dialogue held at OR Tambo House on November 21, representatives from the Free State government and business community joined Indian diplomats to explore avenues for collaboration. The aim of the event was to establish partnerships that would foster mutually beneficial outcomes, particularly in business and economic development.

Starting the event, Dr. Mafole Mokalobe, Deputy Director-General: Provincial Policy, Planning, and Governance, highlighted the strategic importance of the Free State province.

“The Free State serves as a vital hub for transport and logistics, connecting major economic centers across the country. With borders shared with six provinces and Lesotho, we have an unparalleled potential to create linkages between agriculture and manufacturing through agro-processing with export capabilities. A partnership with India can help realize this potential as we chart a trajectory for the province’s future,” said Mokalobe.

Sri Prabhat Kumar underscored India’s long-standing relationship with South Africa, dating back to the anti-apartheid struggle, and the vibrant Indian community in KwaZulu-Natal. He highlighted India’s success in combating poverty through technological skills transfer, suggesting that similar strategies could benefit the Free State.

“While most Indian tourists focus on Durban and Johannesburg, I believe, with collaboration between India and the Free State government, we can unlock opportunities here. India has lifted millions out of poverty through innovation and technology. We are eager to share our expertise to help the Free State address poverty and unemployment challenges,” Kumar stated.

Representing the Acting Premier of the Free State, MEC for DESTEA and Finance, Ketso Makume, reinforced the province’s potential as a destination for investment and tourism.

“The Free State is not just a transit province; it’s a destination. While we face high unemployment rates, dialogues like this allow us to exchange ideas and foster investments.

We sincerely appreciate this visit by the High Commissioner and his delegation. Through collaboration, we can create a dynamic environment for business and tourism, breaking barriers and building lasting partnerships,” said Makume.

Dignitaries at the event included the Consul General of the Republic of India in Durban, Dr. Thelma John David; the Head of Chancery, Prem Sagar Kesarapu; Free State government officials; and members of the business community.

As discussions unfolded, it was impossible not to reflect on the shared history between India and South Africa, exemplified by Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolence was profoundly shaped during his years in South Africa, particularly in his fight against discrimination in the Free State and other provinces. His legacy of perseverance, mutual respect, and transformative leadership offers inspiration for this modern partnership.

The Free State-India dialogue serves as a reminder of Gandhi’s belief in the power of collaboration to uplift communities. By drawing on this historical connection, the partnership aims to pave the way for sustainable economic growth and enduring ties between the two regions.