About Us

Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) serves South African business to create a conducive environment for the private sector to unlock economic growth and development for all South Africans.

We are committed to playing our part in creating a more prosperous and inclusive South Africa by harnessing the resources and capabilities of business in partnership with government and civil society.

Our ultimate aim is to assist and support the government and civil society in its efforts to advance the inclusive socio-economic development of South Africa and its people.

BLSA has its origins in the South Africa Foundation, founded in 1959, and has consistently developed the relationship between business and government in the national interest since then. On 25 November 2005, the South Africa Foundation changed its name and brand to BLSA.

What we do

BLSA works on behalf of its members to formulate and express views on macro-economic and other issues of national interest, while promoting, domestically and internationally, the interests and growth of South Africa’s private sector.

BLSA aims to create a conducive environment for the private sector, with the highest ethical standards, through initiatives that are underpinned by the belief that sound/proven economic management, fiscal, monetary, manufacturing, and trade policies are fundamental for a successful South Africa.

As an organisation we focus on three core activities

Advancing a modern, inclusive and growing economy

Upholding the constitution and protecting the integrity of the state institutions

Demonstrating that business is a national asset and is central in addressing poverty, unemployment, economic injustice, and transformation.

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Defining Business Leadership

Business believes that it is a catalyst for South Africa’s inclusive growth, transformation, and development of a strong society. We recognise that we have both rights and responsibilities. South Africa is strong when business is strong. A South Africa that is good for business is one which attracts investment; where markets function effectively; and political, social and economic conditions create stability and certainty.

This provides a platform for businesses both small and big to thrive, be they privately-owned, state-owned or foreign-owned firms. All have their role to play in building a South Africa that creates prosperity for all by delivering jobs and inclusive growth.

Corruption is the cancer that eats away at this country. BLSA expects the highest ethical standards of its members to not only comply with the laws of the country, but also to root out corruption and demand higher standards across the public and private sectors.

BLSA is committed to transformation within the business sector and supporting black-owned and managed supplier businesses. BLSA embraces the BBBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment) scorecard in a way that gives weight to substance over form and that acknowledges the role of business as a positive force for society. We pledge to grow a new generation of black business leaders and entrepreneurs.