South African President Cyril Ramaphosa Advocates for Sahrawi Self-Determination and Global Peace at UN General Assembly
BY: Hana Saada
New York, September 20, 2023 – In a compelling address delivered during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa underscored the imperative of recognizing the right to self-determination for the Sahrawi people and passionately advocated for peace and humanitarian efforts on the global stage. President Ramaphosa’ speech, which spanned a wide range of pressing issues, was marked by a call for unity, dialogue, and the prioritization of peace over conflict.
At the outset of his address, President Ramaphosa evoked the solemn pledge made by nations 78 years ago to “save generations from the horror of war.” He noted the somber reality that, despite this commitment, many people today continue to grapple with the scourge of war, destitution, hunger, and disease. President Ramaphosa expressed deep concern that trust between nations is eroding, making the attainment of sustainable development increasingly elusive.
“We are witnessing our interests and energies being diverted once again to the scourge of war,” President Ramaphosa remarked, emphasizing that, despite these challenges, humans have shown they can coexist in peace.
President Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa’s commitment to promoting dialogue and conflict resolution, rooted in its transformation from apartheid to democracy. He emphasized the nation’s dedication to advancing human rights, justice, and democracy.
One significant initiative that President Ramaphosa touched upon was South Africa’s participation in the African-led efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. He emphasized that the initiative seeks to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the conflict and millions worldwide facing hunger. President Ramaphosa revealed that he had recently communicated with Ukrainian President Zelensky, who reported progress in achieving the initiative’s objectives, including the return of Ukrainian children and a prisoner exchange.
Turning his attention to other conflicts plaguing the African continent, President Ramaphosa stressed the need for investing in peace. Among these conflicts, he highlighted the longstanding issue of Western Sahara, stating unequivocally, “The right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination must be recognized.”
President Ramaphosa also spotlighted global poverty and destitution. He decried the paradox of massive expenditures on warfare while failing to address critical issues such as hunger, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and development in vulnerable countries.
In closing, President Ramaphosa welcomed the proposal to represent Africa within the international body, stressing the importance of ensuring Africa’s voice is amplified on the global stage.
In a world fraught with conflict and crises, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address at the United Nations General Assembly served as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for global cooperation, dialogue, and a renewed commitment to peace and humanitarian priorities. His call to recognize the right to self-determination for the Sahrawi people and to invest in peace resonates as a clarion call for unity and compassion in an increasingly interconnected world.
