Pretoria: South Africa and Kenya have rejected the notion that Africa is merely a spectator in a rapidly changing global order, with Presidents Cyril Ramaphosa and William Ruto asserting that the continent is increasingly shaping global debates on governance, finance, development, and peace.
According to South African Government News Agency, the two leaders, during a media briefing following their bilateral talks at the Union Buildings, outlined how Pretoria and Nairobi are working together to advance African interests amid growing geopolitical competition and shifting global power dynamics. President Ramaphosa emphasized that while South Africa and Kenya do not view themselves as superior to other African nations, both countries possess influence that can be used to advance continental priorities.
President Ramaphosa highlighted that relations between South Africa and Kenya are based on partnership rather than competition. He stressed that both countries consistently find common ground on continental and international issues and have strengthened cooperation through institutions such as the African Union. The President also pointed to ongoing collaboration in conflict resolution efforts across Africa, citing the role both countries have played in peace initiatives in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and South Sudan.
President Ruto stated that Africa is increasingly moving from the margins of global decision-making to the center of international conversations. He argued that African leaders have successfully pushed issues previously overlooked by the international community onto the global agenda. He cited ongoing efforts to reform the global financial architecture as one example of Africa's growing influence, highlighting persistent advocacy by African leaders for greater international recognition that reforms are needed.
President Ruto also pointed to Africa's inclusion in the G20 as a major diplomatic achievement. He praised South Africa's leadership during its G20 Presidency, saying it successfully elevated African priorities onto the global stage. He expressed his intention to continue advancing the same agenda when participating in the G7 Summit later this month, arguing that Africa's demographic and economic significance makes it impossible to ignore.
The media briefing also provided insights into South Africa's plans to address migration challenges through diplomatic engagement with countries across the continent. President Ramaphosa confirmed that the government is considering a range of diplomatic initiatives and revealed that discussions on migration had also featured during his meeting with President Ruto. He emphasized that migration is a global challenge requiring collective solutions.
President Ruto stated that African countries must leverage their own resources for development. He highlighted discussions around African Union reforms and efforts to make continental institutions more effective and financially independent. He also called for greater mobilization of African capital to fund infrastructure and development projects across the continent.
The remarks reinforced a recurring theme throughout the State Visit, that South Africa and Kenya see their partnership not only as a bilateral relationship but also as a vehicle for advancing Africa's development, strengthening continental institutions, and ensuring the continent has a stronger voice in shaping the future global order.