Baneng is a renowned author, economist, and entrepreneur from South Africa. He earned a master’s degree in economics from the University of the Witwatersrand and is currently working towards a doctorate. Baneng’s research focuses on financial inclusion, women’s economic empowerment, and tax reform. His work has been widely published in leading international economics journals, highlighting its substantial impact.
– June 2024
Several prominent institutions, such as the World Bank Group, DNA Economics, the National Treasury of South Africa, the Competition Commission, Vindilac Analytics, and the Competition Tribunal of South Africa, have sought Baneng’s expertise in economic analysis and policy formulation. This highlights his reputation as a trusted advisor in the field. His contributions to the AfCFTA Country Business Index underscore his dedication to driving economic growth and development in Africa through evidence-based research and analysis.
Baneng’s achievements include winning the prestigious Nedbank and Old Mutual Budget Speech Competition in 2019 and being recognized as one of South Africa’s Top 100 Future Leaders. In 2023, The Institute of Certified Chartered Economists listed Baneng among the 30 Most Influential Young Economists in Sub-Saharan Africa, and more recently, he was featured on the Mail and Guardian 200 Young South Africans list. Alongside other talented individuals, Baneng co-founded the Quarterly Economics Chronicles, a flagship economic report that highlights significant national, regional, and global economic events.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Baneng is deeply committed to philanthropy and has volunteered for several non-profit organizations, including the International Youth Society, Global Peace Chains, Youth Opportunities, and the World Literacy Foundation. He also had the honour of representing South Africa on a panel at the World Youth Forum in Egypt, under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.
As part of his personal goals, he is developing the Baneng Foundation, which aims to create a training ground for social change by empowering youth and providing financial and technical support to rural communities. In addition, he does commentary work for several local radio stations, including Thobela FM, Radio Turf, Energy FM, and Power FM.
