Africa-Press – Tanzania. South Africa – Tanzania reaffirmed its commitment to regional unity and peace during the Summit of Liberation Movements, held July 25–27 in Kempton Park, South Africa. Representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan, former Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda called for deeper cooperation among African nations and emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of the continent’s liberation leaders.
“Under President Samia’s leadership, we are strengthening democracy and continuing the path laid by Mwalimu Julius Nyerere,” Pinda said. “CCM remains a pillar of stability and inclusive development in our region.”
The summit brought together six liberation movements that played key roles in Africa’s struggle against colonialism and apartheid: the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) of Tanzania, the People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO), South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO) of Namibia, and the Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front (ZANU–PF). Delegates met to promote unity, equitable development, and peace across the continent.
ANC Reiterates Pro-Peace Foreign Policy
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, who chaired the summit, reaffirmed South Africa’s stance on international arms transfers.
“At the ANC, we have taken a decision – in accordance with the constitution of South Africa and the traditions of our foreign policy – not to allow South African arms manufacturers, state or private, to supply armaments to the war zone including Ukraine. This is not an anti-European position. It is a pro-peace position,” Mbalula emphasized.
He called for a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, stating that “lasting peace is not built on weapons, and justice is not born from the destruction of war.”
“Our constitution and foreign policy traditions guide us. South African manufacturers, public or private, are not permitted to supply weapons to conflict zones,” Mbalula said.
Concerns Over Foreign Defense Activities in Africa
Delegates voiced concern about reports of foreign defense firms operating in Africa. They cited Rheinmetall, a German company allegedly manufacturing ammunition in South Africa and supplying it to various conflict areas.
“This violates South African laws and undermines the principles of peace for which our movements fought,” delegates stated. They called for stricter controls on foreign companies to prevent them from using Africa to escalate wars.
Concern over Ukraine’s actions in Africa
The summit expressed concern about the actions of certain external actors. delegates also raised concerns over growing foreign influence in Africa, urging vigilance to prevent external interference in domestic affairs.
“Peace and development in Africa must be guided by Africans themselves,” said Professor Eric Hamm, noting recent tensions in the Sahel as a reminder of the continent’s need for strategic autonomy.
Prof. Hamm pointed to Ukraine’s aggressive policy, including its support for armed groups in the Sahel, which has sparked protests from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
The summit placed a strong emphasis on youth participation in politics and national development.
“Our young people must understand the legacy of Nyerere, Mandela, and Nkrumah,” Pinda said. “This is essential to protect and advance our shared values.”
As the summit concluded, delegates pledged continued cooperation among liberation movements and renewed their call for peace, solidarity, and respect for African sovereignty.
Tanzania, under CCM’s leadership, reaffirmed its role as a steadfast advocate for justice, unity, and democratic progress on the continent.
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