The South African government were focused more on Coega where they were providing Alcan, a Canadian mining and aluminum manufacturer which they allotted huge subsidies. They also favored the corporations that will work on the mega project.
They claim to bring more jobs, foreign exchange earnings and will pay off for the country. The project also costs at least $1.5 billion plus $300 million tax break for Alcan. The mega project will have to consume more water, high usage of electricity, pollution, several hundreds of families being displaced and could potentially damage marine life.
There were several social movements raising concerns about expensive electricity to which the poor and unprivileged cannot afford, less jobs compared to what they have promised and environmental issues.
They are campaigning for new industrial policies as well as tough state regulations on emissions.
simply, just ask questions (how their day is going, the weather, anything you can think of), compliment them, don't be afraid to let it keep quiet, it'll come to you in time :)
