Like BEE, transformation is a complex, emotive and potentially divisive process, but its benefits far outstrip the risks.
Empowerment evokes various and contrasting emotions among those involved in the process — “process” is the watchword, rather than event. I fear this process is being undermined by those beneficiaries who view it as an event.
Most sit back, driven by a sense of entitlement or a lack of confidence, when we should be the owners of transformation.
BEE needs to do two things: transform the economy and empower or equip people. This demands commitment from both the beneficiary and the equipper.
The assumption is that the beneficiary is always black and the “equipper” is always white, and those of us who prefer not to take responsibility are quite comfortable with this view. Many black people sit back and expect some 12% of the population to equip the other 88% of South Africa’s population. In the process, we disempower ourselves.
The challenges facing this process are daunting. Among these are:
• The very nature of business, which is exclusive and favours its own or those who buy into the existing approach or nature. This tends to keep aspiring new owners at the periphery of action.
• Black people’s own feelings of inadequacy or lack of trust in the system because of historical factors or experiences.
• The seduction of immediate “gains” which blind people to the ultimate goals and objectives. So we let ourselves be used as window dressing or “special” blacks. Many sit in companies where racism thrives. How strongly do we tackle the status quo or do we pretend all is fine as long as dividends and “special consultation fees” roll in?
• The weakness of mentoring structures. Passing on knowledge and skill doesn’t make you lose it; it just grows the pool. Do we still want to be “the first black” or “the only black” in top echelons? Share the candle; it will not lose its flame.
• A lack of progressive thinking. There should be more black thinkers who act as midwives to the process.
I believe that black beneficiaries hold the key to the success of the process. What should our role be? Here is what I think we should be doing:
• Hold those responsible for implementation accountable. This includes state institutions and structres like the Black Management Forum and Business Unity South Africa effectively.
• Avoid the seduction of transient gains. Keep sight of the big picture and never forget it is our duty to empower others: umntu ngumntu ngabantu.
• Work beyond our networks to bring in those who are physically or psychologically removed.
• Engage forces opposed to transformation with confidence and vigour to show there’s more value when all of us prosper. Minority wealth cannot be sustained in a pool of disempowerment.
There are enough black people who are in an empowered position to catalyse real transformation. We have to acknowledge government for taking the lead but black business needs to go back to the core value of black communities.
If you are the only success in your village, it is because many others made telling sacrifices in order for all of us to get this chance. As Chikapa and Stimela told us many years ago and still do: NINGAJINDI MAJITA (Don’t give up, gents).