Morocco’s historic contribution to South Africa’s liberation
The memorandum emphasizes Morocco’s pivotal role in supporting South Africa’s liberation movement, particularly before Algeria’s independence. During that era, Morocco provided training for freedom fighters, including Nelson Mandela, as well as other members of the ANC and the Algerian National Liberation Army.
The kingdom’s support extended beyond training. Morocco offered financial and military aid to the ANC, helped establish its military wing, uMKhonto WeSizwe, and provided political support by hosting ANC offices and advocating for anti-apartheid efforts at the international level. Morocco’s influence was especially significant during the formation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), where the kingdom stood as a founding member and a strong voice against colonialism and apartheid.
Advancing strategic partnerships
The memorandum calls for the ANC and South Africa to strengthen their partnership with Morocco, aiming to align their goals with the African Union’s Agenda 2063. The signatories argue that greater collaboration could lead to coordinated policies and programs benefiting the African continent.
Morocco’s significant economic role in Africa, along with its hosting of major South African investments, presents a unique opportunity to foster closer economic ties. Such cooperation, they suggest, could unlock substantial potential in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), benefiting both nations’ economies.
Supporting Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces
On the matter of the Moroccan Sahara, the memorandum highlights the overwhelming recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the region by African countries. The signatories call on South Africa to support a peaceful resolution to the dispute, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2756 adopted on October 30, 2024.
This resolution urges Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, and the Polisario Front to negotiate in good faith, emphasizing compromise to achieve a fair and mutually acceptable political solution. The memorandum also notes growing international support for Morocco’s 2007 Autonomy Initiative, which is endorsed by over 110 UN member states as a credible framework for resolving the dispute.
A call for reevaluation
The ANC is encouraged to reflect on the widespread international support for Morocco’s proposal and to press Algeria, Mauritania, and the Polisario Front to engage constructively. By doing so, South Africa could support a solution that fosters stability and development in the region, aligning with the broader goals of African unity.
Coinciding with the memorandum, demonstrators gathered outside the ANC headquarters in Johannesburg on Wednesday. They expressed frustration with the party’s current diplomatic approach to Morocco, advocating for a recalibration that prioritizes strategic partnerships and Africa’s collective interests.
