External Relations

In a notable gathering that promised to shape the future of global tourism, Mister Nkhumeleni Victor Vele, the Director General of the South African Department of Tourism, recently presided over the inaugural meeting of the Tourism Working Group. This assembly brought together senior officials and experts from the G20 nations, all driven by a common ambition: to propel the tourism sector into a new era of resilience and innovation. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, underscoring the profound impact that tourism can…

Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, South Africa’s Minister of Health, recently urged nations to rethink their health resource allocations, strengthen collaborative global initiatives, and investigate innovative financial frameworks. As daunting as the post-pandemic landscape is, his call for action resonates deeply amidst unraveling healthcare systems worldwide. During the G20 Health Working Group convened in the scenic coastal town of Ballito, Motsoaledi articulated a vision not just for South Africa but for the global community. He…

Mr. Zane Dangor, South Africa's G20 Sherpa and Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, recently found himself amidst the bustling halls of the United Nations in New York. His presence there was prompted by an invitation from the President of the General Assembly, offering him a platform to delineate South Africa’s priorities as it assumes the G20 Presidency. With earnest conviction, Mr. Dangor spoke of a theme deeply rooted in South Africa’s ethos—“Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.”…

As South Africa prepares to step onto the world stage, it has officially assumed the Presidency of the G20, paving the way for the highly anticipated Johannesburg Summit, set for November 22-23, 2025. This event promises to be pivotal, not just for the nation, but for the broader global community as well. President Cyril Ramaphosa, during the inaugural gathering of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, eloquently articulated a vision for progress: "For nations to flourish, equality and prosperity must be available to…

In a recent announcement, the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed the contenders for the highly sought-after position of Regional Director for Africa. This revelation comes in the wake of the untimely passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, a distinguished Tanzanian public health expert, who was poised to assume the role in November 2024. Tanzania has formally nominated Professor Mohamed Janabi, an esteemed cardiologist and health advisor to President Samia Suluhu Hassan. His expansive experience and deep-rooted…

A recent investigation conducted by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) sheds light on a complex web of challenges facing the Sahel region. The study indicates that, while a direct link between climate change and terrorism may not be readily apparent, the effects of climate change on agricultural production and natural resource distribution can set the stage for local conflicts. These disruptions, stemming from shifting weather patterns, often lead communities to compete fiercely for essential resources. Consider, for…

Winnie Byanyima, the head of UNAIDS, has issued a stark warning: substantial funding cuts from the United States for global HIV initiatives could precipitate a catastrophic outcome. She estimates that, if the current trend persists, we could witness a staggering 6.3 million deaths and 8.7 million new infections within the next four years. This trajectory threatens to erase decades of hard-won progress in combating the epidemic. Since the funding freeze took effect in January, the ramifications have been immediate and dire.…

In the wake of Ebrahim Rasool's recent expulsion, President Cyril Ramaphosa finds himself at a pivotal crossroads, contemplating the appointment of South Africa's next ambassador to the United States. This decision carries significant weight in a time when diplomatic relations between the two nations remain fraught. President Ramaphosa is not rushing this choice. The stakes are high, and his deliberations reflect a profound understanding of the intricate dynamics at play. As Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson for the…

In recent events, the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool from the United States has ignited a robust response among South African analysts and politicians. Rasool’s remarks, highlighting what he perceives as Donald Trump’s alignment with a white supremacist agenda both domestically and internationally, have not only broadened the diplomatic discourse but also revealed deep fissures in international relations. This incident raises crucial questions: Are the well-established diplomatic protocols universally applicable, or…

In recent developments, the military governments of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have made significant announcements regarding their international affiliations. Each country has formally declared its withdrawal from the International Organisation of Francophonie (OIF), following their earlier exits from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a transition that took place in January of this year. Such strategic moves raise questions about the broader implications for regional stability and international…