Business Unity SA (Busa) on Tuesday gave President Jacob Zuma its “own perspective” on the newly established Black Business Council (BBC).
“President Zuma appreciated the briefing as he had not had an opportunity yet to meet Busa to discuss the matter,” the presidency said in a statement.
The BBC was established earlier this month.
On Thursday, its steering committee chairperson, Patrice Motsepe, told media that the BBC was not formed to fight Busa.
It aimed “to bring together the complaints and frustrations of blacks so that within Busa they can become … a successful voice and make sure problems unique to black business and professionals are addressed in a meaningful sense,” he said.
At the meeting with the Busa leadership, including president Futhi Mtoba, Zuma told them that unity was important.
“The Busa leadership … gave the president their own perspective regarding the recent developments in the business sector which affected unity, leading to the establishment of the Black Business Council.
“He [Zuma] emphasised the importance of unity.”
Zuma said all discussions on the matter had to lead to a unified business community to prioritise job creation, economic transformation and fighting unemployment.
“We stand ready to assist in whatever way we can as government. All parties must put the country first. I am happy that Busa understands this imperative,” Zuma said in the statement. — Sapa