By Sello Masilo
Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, has emphasised that the partnership between South Africa and Nigeria is of great importance to the broader African continent. Speaking at the recent Roundtable Discussion on the Media’s Influence in Shaping Africa’s indispensable relationship between these two nations, Morolong highlighted that the long-standing diplomatic ties between the countries hold the key to future continental development.
Morolong, speaking in his capacity as Deputy Minister, underscored the vital role that Nigeria and South Africa have played in African multilateralism over the past 30 years. The collaboration between these two largest economies in sub-Saharan Africa is not only beneficial to them but also contributes to the economic and political stability of the entire continent .
Promoting Multilateralism and Collaboration
“Throughout this diplomatic friendship, both our governments have sought to place multilateralism high on the agenda of our international relations, both within and beyond Africa,” Morolong said. He called on media professionals to actively dispel narratives of rivalry and competition between the two nations. Such narratives, he insisted, were divisive and did not reflect the collaborative efforts that both countries are pursuing.
This sentiment is echoed by various experts in international relations, who highlight the role that both countries play in continental organisations like the African Union (AU). The AU’s Agenda 2063, which both nations are committed to, underscores the importance of fostering peace, stability, and economic growth throughout Africa .
The Role of the Media in Strengthening Relations
Morolong placed significant emphasis on the responsibility of the media in shaping the relationship between South Africa and Nigeria. He urged media professionals to use their platforms to foster collaboration rather than stoke rivalry. “A healthy society is one that is based on notions of social solidarity, democratic principles, and prosperity,” Morolong said, encouraging media practitioners to use their influence to promote positive narratives.
Morolong’s call is supported by think tanks like the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), which pointed out that the media has a critical role in promoting African unity. SAIIA’s Programme Head for African Governance, Steven Gruzd, noted that a strong media narrative promoting collaboration could help both nations overcome challenges and maximise the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) .
The Importance of Trade Relations and the AfCFTA
The roundtable discussion also touched on the importance of trade relations between South Africa and Nigeria, especially in the context of the AfCFTA. Both nations are pivotal players in intra-African trade, and their collaboration is seen as essential to the success of the AfCFTA, which aims to boost trade, foster economic growth, and encourage skills transfer across the continent .
Evelyn Ngige, Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary for Industry, Trade, and Investment, reiterated that enhancing trade between South Africa and Nigeria would have a ripple effect on the continent. The AfCFTA offers opportunities for cross-border expansion, socio-economic development, and tourism, all of which can be leveraged through strengthened bilateral relations .
Holding Governments Accountable
Another critical point made by Deputy Minister Morolong was the need for media to hold both South African and Nigerian governments accountable for the various bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding signed between the two nations. Morolong specifically mentioned the Bi-National Commission (BNC) agreements, noting that the last session of the BNC took place in Abuja in December 2021, with the next session slated for December 2024 in South Africa.
He urged the media to track and report on the implementation of these agreements, highlighting successes as well as areas where improvements are needed .
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