Reserve Bank governor Gill Marcus says South Africa has great growth potential compared to most countries but people underestimate it.
"We have a lot going for us … We have the ability to be a haven for people who need it," she said at a function in Sandton, Johannesburg.
"South Africa is a place for real growth opportunity … and right now in terms of inflows … almost R55-billion has come in."
In comparison, Europe was not growing and this could affect South Africa as 29% of its manufactured goods was exported there. If Europe stops buying, South Africa suffers, she said.
Proper leadership was needed to maintain and improve South Africa's growth so as to not follow in the footsteps of Europe and other declining economies.
"Many people think leadership is a position … or office or title. It's none of those.
"Leadership isn't someone at the top of the tree. Leadership is each one of us … when you serve the whole, you serve yourself."
Building the future
She noted that a lot needed to done to build the future citizens wanted for themselves and the country.
"The future is what we envision and what we work towards," said the governor.
"Yes we have challenges … but we have created jobs. It's just not at the level you want."
The more businesses strove for knowledge and skills, the better South Africa would be.
"The outcome is determined by what we do."
Training and "maintaining" youth was important, she said, as young people were turned away by employers because they lacked experience.
"We have to get people working, give them experience and help them get their foot in the door." – Sapa