Continuing its mission to empower South African businesses, while making a positive difference in local communities, is the Congress of Business and Economics (CBE).
As a non-profit organisation, the CBE promotes entrepreneurship, creates networking opportunities, and advocates for business-friendly policies that drive sustainable economic growth.
It serves as a vital platform for businesses of all sizes to connect, collaborate, and engage in meaningful discussions about the economy and policy, with a strong focus on South Africa’s development.
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Originally founded in the 1980s as an activist business movement within the Transvaal Indian Congress, the CBE was revived in 2012 to re-establish a bridge between business and society. Its goal remains clear: To promote fairness, opportunity, and collaboration across all sectors.
Since its revival, the CBE has hosted several flagship events, including the CBE–Ahmed Kathrada Excellence in Leadership Awards and the Women’s Recognition Awards. These events celebrate innovation, leadership, and social impact.
The organisation also provides practical support to its members, from enterprise development and security assistance, to social upliftment initiatives, helping small businesses grow while contributing to their communities.
Recognising the importance of empowering the next generation, the CBE is placing strong emphasis on youth and entrepreneur development. New programmes will offer mentorship, training, incubation, and access to funding for young business owners.
“These initiatives are vital for creating sustainable businesses and jobs for the future,” says CBE vice president Yusuf Moosajee.
The organisation remains guided by its activist roots, continuing to engage government and stakeholders on key issues, such as policy reform, safety, and infrastructure.
Ethical leadership, fairness, and social responsibility are central to every decision, ensuring that business growth also uplifts the communities it serves.
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Looking ahead, the CBE plans to expand its youth and enterprise programmes, strengthen partnerships with government and donors, and tackle major challenges, such as crime prevention, access to finance, infrastructure stability, and food security.
For Moosajee, the most rewarding part of this work lies in seeing real, tangible change.
“It’s fulfilling to see a young person gain employment, a small business grow, or a policy shift open doors for many. That’s when you know our work matters.”
Through its ongoing efforts, the CBE continues to show that success and social good can go hand in hand, building a stronger, fairer economy for South Africa.
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