Makgato-Malesu relishes cabinet challenges

Mmegi: With such a broad spectrum of responsibilities, briefly indicate your key focus areas as you settle into the role of the MTI Minister.

Makgato-Malesu: We are going to be driving import substitution because we believe that industries which are doing well, producing the right products at the right prices, need to be supported. We have to look at government spending in total; we cannot say we are encouraging development, finance these businesses and train their people and yet we don't give them business and instead we end up supporting briefcase people who come here, fail to create jobs and take money out. These things have to work hand in hand. We must look at the total picture of where government is going. However, those who produce also have a responsibility for the quality, quantity and pricing of their products. You cannot rip government off and these businesses will burn their fingers if they don't price well; it cannot be a one-way street.