> Chairman's Report

It is with pleasure that I welcome members and friends of the Canada – South Africa Chamber of Business to our 8th annual Indaba dinner. As chairman, it is with pride that I see how this event has grown over the years and it is with great satisfaction that we come together to share our enthusiasm for the wealth of opportunities that propel the South African region. While much of this potential has been realised, there remains much for us to explore together.

Canada and Southern Africa proudly proclaim a long and fruitful history of partnership across many industries. As with the best partnerships, each side has been strengthened by the mutual exchange of knowledge, skills and experience.

Despite today’s difficult investment climate, the African story remains solid. Opportunities abound as domestic demand increases and previously untapped markets are serviced. In recent months, Cordiant has made a follow-on investment in South Africa’s microfinance specialist Real People, a business that has successfully combined significant growth and high profitability over the last several years. Mobile telephone providers are expanding their networks into more and more regions. Mining and natural resource companies are producing and infrastructure projects are underway. There is no shortage of potential across the continent and the Canada – South Africa Chamber of Business remains an enthusiastic catalyst for developing business relationships and promoting opportunities. In this vein, I would like to thank the South African High Commission, in Ottawa, and the Consulate General, in Toronto, for supporting and facilitating our common goals.

I would also like to thank the Chamber’s dedicated and tireless president, Bruce Shapiro, for his abundant energy and drive;
our Board members for their continued dedication and sage counsel; as well as each of our many members and generous sponsors for their on-going encouragement of our initiatives.

I wish you all a wonderful evening!

David G. Creighton, Chairman