Dr Iqbal Survé, the Executive Chairman of Independent Media and the Sekunjalo Group, has emerged as a pivotal figure in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), playing a critical role in bridging Africa with the vast opportunities presented by this global development strategy. His involvement in the BRI spans several years, during which he has consistently advocated for the initiative’s potential to transform not just economies but the global narrative around cooperation, inclusivity, and shared prosperity.
The Belt and Road Initiative, proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, is widely regarded as one of the most ambitious global projects of the 21st century. By revitalising the ancient Silk Road, the BRI seeks to create a network of trade and infrastructure projects that span Asia, Africa, and Europe. It is more than just an economic endeavour; it represents a vision for a connected world where nations collaborate on equal footing, fostering mutual growth and development.
Dr Survé’s involvement with the BRI began with his appointment to the First Council of the Belt and Road News Network (BRNN) in 2019, where he was the sole South African representative. His participation in this influential body underscored his commitment to ensuring that Africa is not only included in global discussions but also that its voice is heard and respected. Dr Survé has consistently emphasised that the BRI is a historic opportunity for Africa to accelerate its development, particularly through investments in infrastructure, technology, and skills exchange.
One of Dr Survé’s most notable contributions to the BRI is his leadership in establishing the $1 billion Belt and Road Africa Fund, announced in 2019. The fund, capitalised by Chinese investors, is designed to focus on investments across the African continent, particularly in sectors such as infrastructure, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and resource beneficiation. Dr Survé has highlighted the fund’s role as a bridge between African and Chinese businesses, strengthening cooperation and driving economic growth in both regions. He has argued that Africa’s future lies in embracing such opportunities, which can propel the continent towards becoming a $5 trillion economy.
Dr Survé’s vision for the BRI goes beyond economic investments. At the 3rd Belt and Road Council Meeting in Chengdu in 2024, he delivered a pivotal address that outlined the transformative potential of media cooperation within the BRI framework. He underscored the crucial role that media organisations play in shaping global narratives, particularly in the context of Africa’s emergence on the global stage. Dr Survé argued that for too long, African media has been influenced by external powers with vested interests, often resulting in narratives that do not accurately reflect the continent’s realities or aspirations.
Through his leadership in the BRNN and his advocacy for a truly independent media landscape in Africa, Dr Survé has sought to empower African media to reclaim its narrative. He has championed the importance of the BRI in fostering a media environment that upholds the values of fairness, accuracy, and inclusivity. In doing so, he believes that African nations can ensure that their stories are told authentically and that their development agendas are understood and respected globally.
Dr Survé’s involvement in the BRI is also a reflection of his broader commitment to global cooperation. He has been a vocal supporter of the BRI’s principles—peace, cooperation, openness, and mutual benefit—arguing that these are essential for building a more connected and prosperous world. He has consistently highlighted the need for Africa to protect its sovereignty while actively participating in global initiatives like the BRI, which offer tangible benefits in terms of infrastructure development, job creation, and economic growth.
The Belt and Road Initiative, as Dr Survé has often pointed out, is not merely about building roads, bridges, and ports; it is about building relationships and creating a shared destiny for nations across continents. His admiration for President Xi Jinping’s long-term vision for the BRI is evident in his speeches and writings, where he has praised the initiative’s potential to bring about positive change not only in the present but for generations to come.
In conclusion, Dr Iqbal Survé’s role in the Belt and Road Initiative exemplifies his dedication to promoting a more equitable and interconnected world. Through his leadership, particularly in the areas of media cooperation and economic investment, he has helped position Africa as a key player in this global endeavour. The BRI, as envisioned by Dr Survé, is a path towards a future where nations collaborate for the common good, ensuring that every voice is heard, and every country can share in the benefits of global progress.