Current Edition >> Archives Section >> Editorial Comment >> 1-15 August 2006

Editorial Comment

Free State a fish pond
With the Free State Business Bulletin trying to keep its finger on the pulse of economic and business developments in the province, we find there is, on the one hand, some encouraging developments taking place. However, on the other hand, if one sees the mega developments taking place in other parts of the country – not only in Gauteng and Western Cape, but also in medium-sized provinces such as North West and Limpopo – then it becomes evident that relatively speaking we are swimming (or trying to swim) in a fish pond. In saying so, we are by no means doom prophets, only realists. The facts speak for themselves. The Free State is in dire need of growth-creating new projects, of imaginative and strong political leadership opening up doors for new investors and of much better synergy between government and business. In this edition, in the column Up close & personal in the interview with Shoprite-Checkers boss in the central region, Jaco de Swardt, these facts are echoed. However, let's be positive and take the bicycle by the handles and keep looking and striving for new opportunities – and make them happen. Let's think out of the box!