Identify the so-called former independent and self-governing states that existed under the previous dispensation and indicate the ethnic groups that had to find their political, social and economic refuge in each “homeland”.

The results of the above-mentioned regional development policy was stagnation of economic growth, a considerable decrease in investments and considerable lowering of real income over a number of decades. The economy was mainly dependent on exportation of minerals and the manufacturing sector was unable to provide the required employment opportunities that would supply the needs of the population. Because of the apartheid policies, there was very little economic co-operation with other African states and South Africa found itself in a situation of isolation.

The following was suggested to achieve and extend regional and international co-operation against this background, and in accordance with RDP objectives for a strong, dynamic and balanced economy:

a) Elimination of poverty, low wages and the extreme inequalities in wages and prosperity that resulted from the policies of the previous government;

b) Easing of economic imbalances and unequal development opportunities within and among the different South African regions;

c) Development of a progressive and balanced regional policy based on the principles of equity and mutual benefit; and

d) Integration into the international economy in such a way that viable and effective local manufacturing capacity and increased potential for exportation of manufactured goods would be sustained.

Sustainable growth and development are only possible if the above principles are incorporated in policy and budget structures. The democratic government will play a leading role in this and it is expected that a dynamic balance between government initiatives, the private sector and community development will be consistently pursued. Broadly representative institutions that will plan strategies for job creation and community development must be established to assist growth in local economies. Examples would include the raising of community development funds in the private sector, investment strategies, training, small business enterprises, agricultural development, etc. If necessary, the government could make subsidies available for job creation and development projects. The ultimate goal is that projects must eventually be individually sustainable.

Local development should aim towards a land reform plan that will attempt to transfer ineffective, debt-ridden, ecology-threatening farm ownership to those who want to earn an income from farming in a more sustainable manner. Improved access to affordable services and infrastructure is a prerequisite, especially in the former “homelands”.

Discuss land reform and make suggestions about what can/should be done to effect land reform in South Africa in a manner that will allow “better” distribution of available land without running the risk of doing damage to production or economic development. (Refer to the present situation in Zimbabwe.)

It is accepted that sustainable reconstruction and development in South Africa presupposes sustainable reconstruction and development in Southern Africa as continued joblessness and under-employment in one region can result in migration to other regions, with detrimental results for those economies. That is why continuous negotiation with neighbouring states remains important for finding a common basis for co-operation, co-ordination and integration. In spite of the fact that present trade patterns between South Africa and the rest of Africa are relatively unbalanced (South African exports to the rest of Africa exceeds those of the rest of Africa to South Africa by five to one), fresh negotiations in this area should focus on achieving a better balance. There should be an attempt to improve possibilities for manufacturing in neighbouring states, so that the possibility of exportation can improve accordingly. The development of regional and industrial strategies for specific sub-sectors, e.g. mineral enrichment, motorcar parts and textiles can be mentioned as examples. The development of combined and mutually advantageous projects with regard, for instance, to water sources, electricity and power supply, transport and communication, and agriculture and food production for the region should also be encouraged.

Do research on the ways in which regional co-operation occurs with regard to the use of water sources in Southern Africa. Refer to existing projects and provide a brief description of each.

Provide (or draw) a map of Southern Africa to show the states that border on South Africa. Also show the products that South Africa exports to its neighbours and the products that are imported from them.