The South African government implemented the Reconstruction and Development Programme in 1994 after months of discussion. It is a socio-economic policy framework focused on increasing South Africa’s economy and reducing poverty.
The ANC consulted with trade unions and the civil sector on several critical issues. With the help of “mass organisations,” they hope to achieve peace and push for progressive change.
The African National Congress is a political party in South Africa that was founded during the apartheid era to represent the black majority and promote their interests. The Reconstruction and Development Programme was one of their goals were to combat the socioeconomic problems caused by apartheid policies.
Increasing poverty and addressing social service shortfalls in the country would require more economic growth and stability.
One way to achieve poverty alleviation is to set a goal of continuing economic development. They are deeply interrelated and mutually supporting objectives. one of the challenges South Africa faces is that progress without development would fail to bring about the necessary structural transformation, with most people living in poverty and constantly struggling for survival.
The RDP tried to combine measures, like lower taxes and government debt, with social service provisions like infrastructural development.
The policy could not be easily classified as socialist or neo-liberal but had elements of both ideologies.
