World Bank and IRR Call for Reform of Black Economic Empowerment Policies in South Africa
IRR welcomes World Bank’s call to SA to scale back on costly BEE - Daily Friend 🔗

The Institute of Race Relations (IRR) supports the World Bank’s call for South Africa to reduce the costly Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) premiums in public procurement. The World Bank's report indicates that BEE policies, initially aimed at promoting inclusivity, have led to inefficiencies and corruption in public administration. The IRR highlights the need for transparency in procurement processes and emphasizes that a significant majority of South Africans favor eliminating BEE premiums in favor of economic growth. Both the World Bank and the IRR advocate for prioritizing value-for-money in government spending to benefit all citizens rather than a select elite.
What does the World Bank report suggest about BEE policies?
The World Bank report suggests that BEE policies, while well-intentioned, have created inefficiencies and opportunities for corruption in public administration, indicating a need for reform.
How does the IRR view the World Bank's recommendations?
The IRR welcomes the World Bank's recommendations as they align with their own analysis and emphasize the importance of transparency and value-for-money in public procurement.
What was the public's opinion on BEE premiums according to the IRR's poll?
According to the IRR's poll, a significant majority of South Africans, including 64% of black respondents, prefer reducing BEE premiums to zero, indicating a desire for policies that prioritize economic growth over racial preferences.