This highly symbolic meeting comes at a significant diplomatic moment, marked by a noticeable shift in tone in Morocco–South Africa relations. The MK party, which recently emerged as the third political force in South Africa, has taken a bold stance by officially recognizing Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara as a “realistic, serious, and credible” solution to the regional dispute.
This position was welcomed in Rabat as a major strategic endorsement, coming from a historic figure on the African continent and a rising political movement. Jacob Zuma, whose party has quickly positioned itself as a key player in South Africa’s new political landscape, sets himself apart from the ANC, the historically dominant party that has long been hostile to Morocco’s position and a staunch supporter of the Polisario militia, armed and funded by the Algerian military junta.
Through this visit, Jacob Zuma appears to be opening a new chapter in relations between Rabat and Pretoria, which have long been strained due to the Sahara issue. For Morocco, this new dynamic brings hope for a realignment of alliances in Southern Africa, a region traditionally aligned with separatist rhetoric.
During their meeting, Mr. Bourita and Mr. Zuma discussed prospects for bilateral cooperation, continental security challenges, and ways to promote an African diplomacy based on respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity of states, and regional economic integration. Morocco’s top diplomat praised this “courageous and visionary stance,” emphasizing the importance of building bridges with the continent’s emerging political forces.
By aligning itself with Morocco’s proposal—supported by a broad majority of the international community—the MK party further isolates supporters of the status quo within African institutions. This potentially far-reaching development could influence other political formations in Southern Africa, encouraging them to reassess their positions in light of today’s diplomatic, economic, and geopolitical realities.
Jacob Zuma’s visit to Rabat is therefore not merely diplomatic; it is deeply symbolic, and may well mark the beginning of a paradigm shift in African alignments on the Sahara issue.
Editorial team/le7tv