JOBURG, SOUTH AFRICA THOUSANDS of Ethiopian refugees living in South Africa are dangling an offer of R100 million to the government in exchange for permanent residence permits.
The offer hit a snag with Mzansi reluctant to accept this offer the Ethiopians believe would help boost the economy and create jobs.
The Ethiopians made the offer through the South African Development Foundation, an organisation which provides support to previously poor communities.
They had been contacting various government institutions with the offer since March. They also contacted Deputy President David Mabuza and Minister in the Presidency, Jackson Mthembu.
Glory Dlamini, Mthembu’s personal assistant, confirmed receipt of the proposal last month but said it was rejected immediately.
“To me, agreeing to the Ethiopians’ proposal to give government R100 million in exchange for permanent residence permit is like selling the country,” she said.
“I received the paper from Ethiopians some time in December. Mthembu has not yet seen it but I will definitely give it to him soon.
“Frankly speaking, their proposal for residence permits in exchange for R100 million is exactly what the Guptas were doing here.”
It was reported that 5 000 Ethiopians had said they were ready to pledge R20 000 each over six months as capital to start the SADEF industrial programme.
“We’re not talking about all Ethiopians, but a specific group under the leadership of Africa Diaspora Forum in Joburg,” said a spokesperson.– CAJ NEWS
