South Africa is truly an amazing country. Though it at present faces serious economic and social challenges, it remains a beacon of hope for most developing countries.

South Africa is truly an amazing country. Though it at present faces serious economic and social challenges, it remains a beacon of hope for most developing countries.

The country's commitment to growth and development, as shown by its aspirations and enthusiasm to participate in the world market through incentives to lure investors, might be hampered by Eskom's failure to provide the required amount of electricity.

The rising prices of essential commodities such as food and fuel and the extreme internal debt owing to the adverse effect of our monetary policy committee might accelerate stagflation in the country.

The country's failure to create jobs for the 25 percent of job-seekers, our nonchalant approach to health-related issues such as HIV-Aids, a high infant mortality rate and the inability to deal with crime and corruption hamper growth prospects.

But despite all these challenges, the country remains a torchbearer for developing countries.

It is capable of competing with the world's best economies and is becoming a benchmark for many countries.

And with the recent cancellation of the Cuban debt the country shows its commitment to assisting the marginalised.

South Africa's action is commendable and must be an example for the world.

Phillimon Mnisi

Johannesburg