LAGOS, NIGERIA – Professor Bobby Moroe, the Consul-General of the Republic of South Africa, has urged Nigerian businesses to invest in South Africa, emphasizing the need for reciprocal economic engagement between the two countries.
Addressing a conference on ‘Digitalization, Democracy, and Politics in Post Covid’ at the University of Lagos, Moroe highlighted South Africa’s significant investments in Nigeria, with over 100 South African businesses operating in the country, including prominent companies like MTN, Multichoice, and various retail chains.
“We have over one hundred businesses in Nigeria, small medium, micro businesses and strong companies such as MTN, Multichoice, retail stores and other South African businesses are thriving in Nigeria,” Moroe stated. “I would like to see the same increase like that in South Africa from the Nigeria side.”
The Consul-General underscored the importance of fostering collaboration between the South African and Nigerian business communities, citing the South Africa and Nigeria Business Forum as a platform for facilitating business opportunities.
“I am making an appeal to investors from Nigeria to have their presence in South Africa because we are brothers,” Moroe emphasized. “South Africa’s mission in Nigeria is trying to create collaboration between the South African business community and Nigeria’s business community.”
He further emphasized the mutual benefits of enhanced business interactions between the two countries, stating, “It is in the best interest of both countries to interact and increase business opportunities and minimize each other company in both countries, which is the best way to go.”
Moroe also discussed the role of information technology in combating crime and corruption in both South Africa and Nigeria, acknowledging its effectiveness in crime control and governance.
“We have a lot of companies in South Africa, one of them is a company that helps in tracking of stolen vehicles and makes sure such vehicles are stopped when in motion,” he explained. “The government also put in place alot of initiatives, like drones used by the police and the use of social media in fighting corruption.”
While recognizing the benefits of ICT, Moroe acknowledged the potential threat to privacy and secrecy posed by these technologies.
The conference convener, Professor Victor Ajakorotu, emphasized the significance of such academic gatherings to address critical issues, including the impact of technology on democracy, politics, and society.
“I am happy we were able to bring scholars from different parts of the world to debate on the issue of democracy, politics and the digital,” Ajakorotu stated. “No technology doesn’t have Its own advantages and it’s disadvantages.”
He highlighted the double-edged sword of technology, noting its potential for both facilitating accurate election results and spreading misinformation.
“Technology is relevant, we can’t do away with it,” Ajakorotu asserted. “It is true fake news can cause havoc, if not properly checked. We need more awareness on fake news, most especially in Africa on the use of technology for the good of all.”