ACCORDING TO THEN PUBLIC ENTERPRISES Minister Jeff Radebe, speaking three years ago: “There are strong perceptions that many South African companies working elsewhere in Africa come across as arrogant, disrespectful, aloof and careless in their attitude towards local business communities, work seekers and even governments.”

While some may feel that the Americans, the Europeans and now the Chinese, behave no better, South African firms have a particular responsibility to correct this impression, thanks to the political power Pretoria enjoys as aid gatekeeper through its New Partnership for Africa’s Development.