By Samuel Ouma
The South Africa – United States Working Group on African and Global Issues (WGAGI) has condemned in strongest terms the attempt of coup de tat in Niger.
While demanding the release of Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum, the group criticized the perpetrators for trying to undermine democracy, peace and stability in Niger.
It joined UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Africa Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki, who have condemned the July 26 incident.
The group also raised concerns over the conflict in Sudan that has claimed lives, devastated property, displaced people and worsened humanitarian crisis.
It Called the warring parties to stop the conflict and warned human rights violators of dire consequences.
On Zimbabwe, WGAGI called on Zimbabweans to maintain peace and order ahead of the upcoming elections.
At the same time, it expressed mutual appreciation for South African and American efforts to achieve a long-term cessation of hostilities in Ethiopia.
They also recognized efforts by President Ramaphosa and Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor, who convened the conflict parties in Pretoria in November 2022.
“The United States and South Africa pledged continued engagement to facilitate the delivery of critically needed humanitarian assistance to those in need, and to support the national unity and territorial integrity of Ethiopia while maintaining and implementing the cessation of hostilities agreement between the parties,” they said in a statement.
WGAGI spoke during a meeting at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in Pretoria, South Africa.
The meeting was co-chaired by the Director-General of DIRCO, Mr. Zane Dangor, and the visiting Acting USUS Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland.
The meeting provided a platform for Acting Deputy Secretary of State Nuland to deliver an update on the execution of the outcomes from the U.S.-African Leaders Summit in December 2022.
The two delegations reaffirmed their shared commitment to developing the African Union, citing its unique role in fortifying democratic institutions, supporting long-term peace and security, and accelerating economic progress throughout the continent.
Acting Deputy Secretary Nuland, on the other hand, stressed the US commitment to expanding relations with all African states to advance shared interests, engage growing African democracies, and encourage policy alignment with the African Union in accordance with the A.U.’sA.U.’s Agenda 2063.
The WGAGI, part of South Africa’s annual structured interactions with the USUS, focuses on Africa and global problems of mutual interest to explore prospects for bilateral and multilateral collaboration.
