South Africa is grappling with high unemployment, a soaring crime rate and worsening inequality, but the country is not yet in crisis. This is according to executive director of the Institute for Security Studies Jakkie Cilliers, writing in the institute's "South African Futures 2035" report, released yesterday.Cilliers said despite weak growth and poor governance, "there is still reason to be optimistic" about South Africa, but strong economic growth was essential."We are experiencing turbulence, but not yet a storm," he said, adding that the perennial sense of crisis was "not supported by deeper analysis of the structural conditions"."In reality," he said, "South Africa's growth prospects are quite healthy."Cilliers said the country "appeared to be wobbling" and highlighted areas of concern, including corruption and patronage in government, high unemployment and the electricity crisis, which could stunt the country's economy"South Africa will only achieve long-term stability and prosperity with a leadership committed to inclusive political and economic practices."Global events since 1994, particularly the 2008-2009 recession and its aftermath, and the lacklustre recovery, have dealt progress in South Africa a cruel blow, as have uninspiring leadership and an apparent loss of vision by the ruling party."Yet these should not hide the remarkable progress that has been achieved, including the rolling out of essential services, such as water, sanitation and electricity, alleviating deep-seated poverty and the provision of education, despite all its flaws and imperfections," wrote Cilliers.Free Market Foundation economist Loane Sharp said he agreed with the ISS, even if it was "bold"...