Good reputation will enhance economic growth - Reputation Institute

The Reputation Institute also found that South Africa's reputation as a country has improved within the G8 industrialised countries.

"Just as the world admires and draws inspiration from his example, we South Africans continue to benefit from his lifetime of steadfast courage, sacrifice and humanity. His ongoing contribution supports many causes which improve our country and give people encouragement, and is an example every citizen should aim to emulate," said Miller Matola CEO of Brand South Africa in response to these findings.

Economic growth and job creation

Matola added that a good reputation is vital for South Africa's economic growth and international standing. The improvement in South Africa's reputation within G8 countries shown by the Reputation Institute's study is good news for all South Africans. A good international reputation supports economic growth and job creation. People are more likely to want to visit as tourists, buy our products or invest in our businesses if we have a good reputation.

Matola said we as citizens can't sit back and subcontract our county's reputation to our rugby and soccer teams, to business, to government or even to national heroes like Nelson Mandela. As this study shows, all South African's should play their part in improving our country's good name. At home we should be welcoming of visitors and show them real South African hospitality. If we are abroad we should remember that we are also ambassadors for all South Africans.

"As a country we must try through our actions and our attitude to gain an international reputation as a place of beauty and hospitality and as a place where you can do business", he added.