Image: President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed to Tayfin Estate by Mahier Tayob
On the vibrant afternoon of May 14, 2024, the Tayfin Estate in Centurion played host to an influential gathering as Tayfin Forensics, in collaboration with the Progressive Business Forum (PBF), orchestrated a luncheon featuring ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa, ANC Treasurer General Dr Gwen Ramokgopa, Premier of Gauteng Panyaza Lesufi and former ANC Treasurer Mathews Phosa. The event proved to be a resounding success, drawing over 200 esteemed guests comprising business magnates, professionals, community leaders, corporate entities, religious representatives, NEC members, and diplomats.
President Ramaphosa's keynote address resonated deeply with attendees, instilling a sense of optimism and confidence in the nation's future. Delving into the challenges faced by the government during its current term, he highlighted the strides taken over the past five years to overcome these obstacles, emphasizing the quest for a clear majority in the upcoming May 29 elections.
Echoing the ANC's core principles, President Ramaphosa underscored the importance of unity, equality, and solidarity, urging all present to uphold these values. He reaffirmed the ANC's commitment to combatting corruption and restoring public trust, characterizing the preceding years as a period of rebuilding and addressing myriad challenges.
Beyond domestic affairs, President Ramaphosa reiterated South Africa's stance on international issues, notably expressing solidarity with the people of Palestine and denouncing injustices such as the ongoing genocide in Gaza and Rafah. His remarks reflected a nuanced approach to global engagement, aligning South Africa with causes of justice and human rights.
In anticipation of the forthcoming elections, President Ramaphosa called upon business leaders to actively participate and lend support to the African National Congress. Addressing concerns raised by the opposition regarding the National Health Insurance (NHI) bill, he affirmed the government's commitment to comprehensive healthcare reform while engaging in constructive dialogue.
During his address, Mahier Tayob, the Host and Managing Director of Tayfin, warmly welcomed guests and reflected on four seminal moments that had a huge impact on his support for the ANC government. He spoke of the smooth transition to democracy, led by the ANC government, which forgave and created an inclusive government of national unity. The 2010 soccer World Cup symbolized unity and patriotism for the nation. South Africa being the most successful team in the Rugby World Cup Tournament. He also emphasized the ANC's role in averting civil unrest during the transition to democracy and its commitment to human rights, and praised the government for their commitment and support of Palestine specifically in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) proceedings.
The Progressive Business Forum luncheon served as more than a mere networking opportunity; it provided a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and collective action. Former ANC Treasurer General Mathews Phosa emphasized the event's significance, rallying support from diverse sectors and fostering engagement between business entities and the ANC.
The gathering at Tayfin Estate epitomized the spirit of progressive engagement and collaboration, underscoring the pivotal role of business forums in shaping South Africa's socio-economic landscape. As the nation charts its course forward, events like these serve as catalysts for collective growth, prosperity, and inclusive development.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Ward 61 Councillor Naeem Patel.
The event was broadcasted exclusively live on Hilaal TV's DSTV channel. However, if you missed it, you can still catch the event on the Hilaal TV YouTube channel.
Women Volunteers from Laudium Care Services for the Aged with Muhammed and Mahier Tayob; Haseena Wajar, Halima Suliman, Nadia Akoob, Zainub Sathaar, Aneesa Cassim, Thinash Gungadoo and Haseena Azmuth
Executive Member of Media Review Network Dr Firoz Osman delivered an address on Palestine
The Hilaal TV crew with Mahier and Muhammed Tayob
Cllr Naeem Patel
Deputy Chair of Laudium Care Services for the Aged, Aneesa Cassim addressing the audience