RSIS coordinated a study visit to Singapore for 18 African policymakers. With earlier visits in 2008 and 2009, this is the third such visit organised by the Brenthurst Foundation of South Africa.

Led by Mr Obasanjo Olusegun, former President of Nigeria, the African delegation met up with officials from various Singapore organisations. These include: the Economic Development Board, Housing & Development Board (HDB), Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, Urban Redevelopment Authority, Ministry of Finance, JTC Corporation, Singapore Business Federation, and Temasek International, among others.

The African delegation also made visits to ICA Ports Command, PSA International, as well as HDB’s first Eco-Precinct, the Treelodge@Punggol.

Ambassador Barry Desker, Dean of RSIS, hosted a dinner for the African delegates. Mr S. R. Nathan, sixth President of Singapore, also chaired a fireside chat with the delegates, which was followed by lunch.

The delegation was here to learn about Singapore’s experience in economic and social development. While still interested in knowing generally about the “Singapore Experience”, the interest on this occasion was focused more on Singapore’s port and customs operations and industrial development.