WeeklySA_AdminINTERESTS: President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged stronger African-led solutions to disputes, deeper regional cooperation and reforms to global institutions to give Africa a greater voice on the world stage…
By Monk Nkomo
The African continent – which has been affected by conflicts in and around certain parts of the world – must speak with one voice guided by their own interests and aspirations, according to President Cyril Ramaphosa.
In his remarks while welcoming Kenyan President, William Ruto on his State visit to South Africa, Ramaphosa also said the two countries were committed to working side by side , within the African Union and regional organisations, to prevent conflict , support peace negotiations and strengthen democratic governance.
Both countries, Ramaphosa added, met at a time of global uncertainty when the African continent was affected by conflicts even in many parts of the world including the Middle East and Ukraine. African countries were now feeling the impact of rising fuel prices , inflation and constrained growth.
‘’ Our position is clear : dialogue and diplomacy must prevail over confrontation.
Together, our countries stood firmly for dialogue, reconciliation and African-led processes to resolve disputes’’
South Africa and Kenya shared a commitment to multilateralism and peaceful resolution of disputes. ‘’ We stand for a rules-based international order applied fairly and universally. South Africa and Kenya continue to play important roles in seeking solutions to conflicts in our respective regions and on our continent.’’
Ramaphosa said the relationship of the two countries was rooted in shared values, mutual respect and common vision for democracy, peace and prosperity across Africa.
‘’ It reflects the growing strength of our ties and the determination of our two nations to work together for the benefit of our people.
As such, our partnership carries significance not only for our citizens but for the broader African project of integration, industrialisation and inclusive growth.’’
Both countries – in their commitment to strengthen their relationship and help shape a peaceful, integrated and thriving African continent – finalised several strategic Memoranda of Understanding including agreements which would deepen collaboration and provide practical benefits for their citizens.
‘’ As we look ahead , our cooperation must place people at the centre, creating opportunities for youth , empowering women and promoting inclusive growth’’, Ramaphosa said. Partnerships with the world must be based on respect, equality and shared prosperity.
Trade between the two countries continued to grow. Kenyan exports to South Africa were expanding, creating greater balance and mutual benefit.
Opportunities abound in infrastructure, automotive manufacturing, agro-processing, digital innovation, renewable energy, healthcare and education.
Ramaphosa also reiterated Africa’s call for reform of global institutions – including the UN Security Council and international financial bodies – to better reflect today’s realities and give Africa its rightful voice.
