A country that is rich in minerals, fertile land, water, mild climates and a booming tourism industry offers much to the adventurer. A recent copy of the Harvard review on South Africa stated as follows: "The Republic of South Africa is divided into nine provinces, each possessing its own democratically elected state legislature, premier and executive council. Gauteng is the richest and most populous. KwaZulu-Natal is home to two important ports, Durban and Richards Bay.

Western Cape has the highest education levels in South Africa and is best known for its principal city, Cape Town. Eastern Cape has been pinpointed as a key area for economic development with good port, rail, road and airport infrastructure. Mpumalanga is the centre of South Africa's coal mining sector and boasts incredible natural beauty, while Limpopo is largely associated with agriculture, producing a large percentage of the nation's fruit, including mangoes, papaya and avocados. North West province is home to South Africa's platinum belt, while Free State is home to the gold mining sector and Bloemfontein, which houses the Supreme Court of Appeal. Northern Cape, much of which is semi-desert, covers 30% of the land area of South Africa and is inhabited by the last remaining Bushmen of the Kalahari."

South Africa's economy grew by 4.9% in 2007 thanks to the impact of the resources on the domestic economy and exports. In the coming years there will be a greater link to Asia with SA and China building solid relationships. The buzz in the economy and business sectors is the impact of the 2010 World Cup which is the driver of the massive infrastructure improvement programme such as the upgrade to airports, train tracks and renovations to/ or brand new stadiums.

Due to the high levels of unemployment and the government's commitment to spreading the wealth of the country to previously disadvantaged communities, it is relatively difficult for foreigners to obtain work visas here. However it is possible where skills are in short supply such as in the medical, IT or engineering sectors (there are over 53 categories of skills in demand) see www.home-affairs.gov.za/skills.asp.

Immigrating to SA
Considering immigrating to and settling in South Africa? Always make inquiries before travelling to South Africa. You should make inquiries at your nearest Department of Home Affairs office www.home-affairs.gov.za) if you're in South Africa, at your nearest SA Embassy, High Commission or Consulate if you are abroad. Due to the need to create job opportunities for South African workers, prospective immigrants should be seriously committed to investing their assets, skills and experience for the benefit of themselves and the people of South Africa.