Interview with Wendy Luhabe, Chairperson, Industrial Development Corporation, South Africa; Co-Chair, World Economic Forum on Africa

What are African economies' competitive advantages and what would be your top recommendation to the continent's leaders to capitalize further on these?
My top recommendation would be to utilise and leverage what we already have, mineral wealth and natural resources, human capital and land. To be the architects of our own economic development.

As corporate global citizenship grows in importance, how should corporations exercise their civic duty with regard to major global issues like health, food and education?
They should establish funds in the countries where they operate which can invest in health, food and education provision of local communities. Economic exploitation must be discouraged it contributes to growing global disparities. What's needed is to build and invest in a culture of empowerment.

Should Africa's government and business leaders be doing more to encourage an end to the upheaval in Zimbabwe?
Absolutely, they should because upheaval in one country creates socio-economic challenges in the region.

Is Africa's leadership doing enough to tackle crime and how can investor confidence be restored?
There is not enough leadership, leaders must champion a zero tolerance culture and must lead by example. Most of Africa's challenges are a result of poor leadership. The continent needs bold and responsible leadership.