Southern African leaders shift focus, eye economic liberation

The liberation movements in Southern Africa have recommitted to continue with the next phase of emancipation in the region. The leaders say economic development should be at the heart of their priorities while safeguarding the gains that they have made over the years.

African National Congress (ANC) president Cyril Ramaphosa was joined by his counterparts from FRELIMO in Mozambique, SWAPO from Namibia, ZANU-PF from Zimbabwe, and other countries, at the Liberation Movements Summit in Kempton Park.

These parties also want to reconnect with their people, who are running out of patience as they want service delivery and better living conditions.

 Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his speech at the Liberation Movements Summit in Ekurhuleni on Sunday. 

[WATCH] President Ramaphosa says liberation movements are under siege from within and without. pic.twitter.com/O6aUDoNU0r

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It’s a moment of rejuvenation as the movements in Southern Africa are tackling the challenges they are facing.

Ramaphosa says these political parties have a massive responsibility. His Namibian counterpart and the country’s first female President Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah echoes the same sentiments.

Liberation movements say economic development should be given clear focus and improve living standards in their respective countries.

The untenable situation in Gaza has dominated the discussions as leaders are calling for a ceasefire and an end to the catastrophe.

Liberation Movements pledge a new phase of emancipation: 

‘Tackle corruption’

These parties have recommitted to tackle corruption, end patronage, push for the inclusion of women and safeguard the hard-won freedom in their respective countries.

Political analyst Professor Themba Sono says the movements cannot keep talking about economic emancipation without tackling corruption.

Professor Sono says the parties are failing dismally in public finance management.  

“When it comes to public funds, they don’t know how to manage them. Whether it’s Zimbabwe,  South Africa, Mozambique, or Namibia. They don’t know because money is being stolen, and they should be able to prevent public funds theft.”