Cape Town – Renowned South African businessman Paul Harris has expressed optimism about South Africa despite its serious challenges.
speaking on The Relocated South African podcast, Harris, who once lived abroad but chose to return, believes the country still offers immense opportunities and a high quality of life.
He highlighted South Africa’s resilience through historical hardships and argued that its current problems, though real, are not insurmountable.
Harris emphasised the ability for individuals to make a meaningful impact, citing his daughter’s NGO that teaches reading to hundreds of thousands of children.
“She helps 220,000 kids to read. Her network includes 20,000 computers in schools across South Africa, and employs 800 people,” he said.
He encouraged South Africans to stop complaining and instead take action to improve the country.
“I am not saying for one moment that there are not massive frustrations. However, that is part of the path to achieve something,” he said.
Harris acknowledged that wealthier citizens often rely on private services to counter state inefficiencies but said this is not a new phenomenon. Many professionals, including his own children, have chosen to return to South Africa after working overseas, drawn by its unique lifestyle and opportunity to contribute.
While he supports gaining international experience, Harris advised against permanently leaving out of pessimism. His core message: South Africa has problems, but it remains a great place to live, with the potential for real impact and fulfillment.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
