Against a backdrop of local and global political, social, and economic uncertainty, The Institute of Risk Management South Africa (IRMSA) releases the 10th edition of its highly anticipated Risk Report on the 2nd of July at the Johannesburg Country Club in Woodmead.

Each year IRMSA’s Annual Risk Report unpacks South Africa’s top risks and risk response strategies with strategic insights from leaders in the risk management community.

Last year’s report highlighted South Africa’s failure to deal with a myriad of risks including the systemic failure of public infrastructure, a proliferation of illicit economic activity, and political instability.

This resulted in what the report defines as a polycrisis, in which the country is forced to juggle these risks and their fallout simultaneously.

This year’s report acknowledges the evolution of the polycrises both locally and globally.

Overall, this year’s report expects more from ordinary citizens and organisations to take change into their own hands. “Building resilience is not about putting all our hope into political structures but harnessing this emerging optimism to enact change in any way possible,” says Yvonne Mothibi, IRMSA’s Chief Executive Office.

Some of the risks highlighted have been carried over from last year’s report although these risks have evolved to fit our current political, social, and economic landscapes. These include threats posed by political instability, climate change, and failing infrastructure. However, analysts point toward a more positive trend toward optimism and a willingness to effect change in the face of insurmountable challenges.

“The IRMSA Annual Risk Report is an essential tool for South African risk managers who are currently facing a period of unprecedented uncertainty,” says Mothibi. “We’re exceptionally proud of the analysis and insights that have emerged from the 10th edition of the report, and we look forward to another decade of ensuring that the South African risk community remains informed and prepared for whatever comes our way.”

Launch events for this year's report will be held in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town, featuring discussions and interviews with esteemed experts and contributors to the report. For more information on attending these events in person or online, please visit the IRMSA website https://www.irmsa.org.za/