On 11 November 2024, Professor Fiona Tregenna, an influential economist and holder of the DSI/NRF South African Research Chair in Industrial Development (SARChI-ID) at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), was appointed to the Presidential Economic Advisory Council (PEAC) by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Prof Tregenna served in the inaugural Presidential Economic Advisory Council appointed in 2019, and will serve again in the PEAC of the 7th Administration. The Council will advise the President and his Executive in addressing South Africa’s most pressing economic challenges.

Prof Tregenna brings a wealth of expertise in economic policy to this pivotal role, in particular regarding structural transformation, industrial development and industrial policy. By leveraging her extensive global knowledge, she will play a key role in shaping strategies that drive economic transformation and foster sustainable growth.

Prof Tregenna also sits on various other high-level bodies such as the International Commission of Experts on Financing for Development, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Advisory Council.

Also appointed to the PEAC is Prof Antonio Andreoni, Distinguished Visiting Professor at UJ and Professor of Development Economics at SOAS University of London. Prof Tregenna’s and Prof Andreoni’s involvement in the Council strengthens UJ’s connection to critical national and global economic policy discussions.

The PEAC, chaired by President Ramaphosa, draws on the expertise of leaders in fields such as fiscal policy, energy transitions, trade, and labour economics.

Prof Tregenna’s contributions to the Council reflect her commitment to evidence-based policy and inclusive growth. Her voice will contribute to innovative approaches to building a more equitable and sustainable economic future for South Africa.