BDO Jawad Habib: Building business bridges in a divided world

'Themed to build bridges in a 'Divided World', this conference reflects growing geopolitical and economic relations between Arab and African countries. Arab business is looking for new investment destinations and Africa definitely has potential to accommodate prospective projects,' said Abdulla Rahma.

The conference highlighted investment issues and business opportunities in both Arab and African countries. Mr. Rahma guided all delegates present at the conference to a vivid tour inside the Kingdom of Bahrain, emphasizing on its strategic geographical positioning and favourable factors that have made it a fertile business environment, both encouraging and promising with respect to foreign investment. He identified the different potential economic clusters and the investment incentives that make Bahrain 'The Island of Golden Opportunities'.

'Arab investment in South Africa witnessed an awesome jump by several billions over the past few years and this clearly demonstrates the encouraging investment potential Africa enjoys. Building bridges between Africa and the Middle East can be an important stimulus to the economic development of both regions,' he added.

Jonathan Maehler, Partner BDO Spencer Steward said, 'The relatively low interest rates of the past few years, good economic growth, strong financial markets, a solid banking system and the stability brought about by the government's commitment to its macroeconomic policy, are all factors that make South Africa an extremely attractive investment proposition. As is, the fact that, we have the kinds of skills and expertise needed to put together deals of this magnitude.'

The wave of investment is also not limited to South Africa or just the tourism industry, says Maehler. A wide range of investments, particularly in property, manufacturing, mining and banking are being explored locally, as well as in countries such as Kenya, Tanzania (Zanzibar) and Mauritius.

"Arab investors have seen the enormous potential in Africa, and in particular South Africa, and like any savvy investors, they're getting in on the action early," he added.