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DIALOGUE | Today Deputy Minister Alvin Botes today joined the Nucleus Institute Seminar on “Middle Power Alignment: South Africa & Canada Perspectives” at The Maslow Hotel, Sandton. Deputy Minister formed part of the panel discussing“The Perils and Promise of the Middle Power Doctrine: The Political and Diplomatic Perspective”, and he unpacked how South Africa 🇿🇦 leverages multilateralism, strategic non-alignment and to shape a rules-based order.

Ubuntu Radio interview with Deputy Minister Alvin Botes following his participation at the Nucleus Institute Seminar held at The Maslow Hotel, in Sandton.

Deputy Minister Alvin Botes opening remarks during a panel discussion on "The Perils and Promise of the Middle Power Doctrine: The Political and Diplomatic Perspective" at the Nucleus Institute Seminar held at The Maslow Hotel, in Sandton. 26/07/2026

[AUDIO] The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes addressing wa delivering remarks at the Colloquium marking the culmination of the 22nd All Africa Course on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) at the University of Johannesburg in Auckland Park, 27 August 2026. The Colloquium focused on South Africa’s role in promoting and developing IHL, the formal launch of the board game “Rapid Response: IHL”, and discussions on the voice of youth, artificial intelligence and Autonomous Weapons Systems.

[AUDIO] Mr. Jean-Nicolas Paquet-Rouleau, the Head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Regional Delegation for Southern Africa delivering remarks at the Colloquium marking the culmination of the 22nd All Africa Course on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) at the University of Johannesburg in Auckland Park, 27 August 2026. The Colloquium focused on South Africa’s role in promoting and developing IHL, the formal launch of the board game “Rapid Response: IHL”, and discussions on the voice of youth, artificial intelligence and Autonomous Weapons Systems.

Professor C. Lupton, the Vice-Dean: Research and Internationalisation of the Faculty of Law, University of Johannesburg delivering opening remarks at the Colloquium marking the culmination of the 22nd All Africa Course on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) at the University of Johannesburg in Auckland Park, 27 August 2026. The Colloquium focused on South Africa’s role in promoting and developing IHL, the formal launch of the board game “Rapid Response: IHL”, and discussions on the voice of youth, artificial intelligence and Autonomous Weapons Systems.

Closing remarks by Minister Lamola and Minister Vieira in Pretoria. Minister Ronald Lamola today co-chaired the Eighth Session of the South Africa-Brazil Joint Commission (JC) with Brazil's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mauro Vieira, in Pretoria. The Joint Commission remains the principal bilateral mechanism for overseeing, reviewing and advancing cooperation under the South Africa-Brazil Strategic Partnership across a broad range of sectors. The Seventh Session, held in Brasília on 23 April 2024, laid the groundwork for enhanced collaboration and implementation of key bilateral priorities.

Minister Ronald Lamola is today co-chairing the Eighth Session of the South Africa-Brazil Joint Commission (JC) with Brazil's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mauro Vieira, in Pretoria. The Joint Commission remains the principal bilateral mechanism for overseeing, reviewing and advancing cooperation under the South Africa-Brazil Strategic Partnership across a broad range of sectors. The Seventh Session, held in Brasília on 23 April 2024, laid the groundwork for enhanced collaboration and implementation of key bilateral priorities.

Minister Ronald Lamola is today co-chairing the Eighth Session of the South Africa-Brazil Joint Commission (JC) with Brazil's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mauro Vieira, in Pretoria. The Joint Commission remains the principal bilateral mechanism for overseeing, reviewing and advancing cooperation under the South Africa-Brazil Strategic Partnership across a broad range of sectors. The Seventh Session, held in Brasília on 23 April 2024, laid the groundwork for enhanced collaboration and implementation of key bilateral priorities.

Raymond Matlala is the CEO of the South African BRICS Youth Association The South African BRICS Youth Association (SABYA), in partnership with the University of South Africa (UNISA), will host the 5th BRICS Summer School South Africa 2026 from 02–03 September 2026 at the University of South Africa in Pretoria. Hosted under the theme, “Innovatively Inclusive Futures for BRICS and the Global South,” the two-day Summer School will bring together approximately 150 participants for an intensive programme of learning, dialogue, networking and international exchange. Participation has been confirmed from 12 countries. Of the expected 150 participants, approximately 30 delegates will come from BRICS countries, eight from other Global South countries, with the remaining participants comprising South African national delegates.

President Emerson Mnangagwa's Closing Remarks - SA-Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission by Ubuntu Radio

President Cyril Ramaphosa's Closing Remarks - SA-Zimbabwe Bi-National Commissionm by Ubuntu Radio

On Friday, 21 August 2026, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa of the Republic of Zimbabwe for the Fourth Session of the South Africa–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Pretoria. Established in April 2015, the BNC serves as the central mechanism for managing and advancing the strategic partnership between South Africa and Zimbabwe. To date, more than 33 agreements and memoranda of understanding have been concluded between the two countries across various areas of cooperation. The Fourth Session will provide an opportunity for the two Heads of State to review progress in implementing existing bilateral commitments and to identify opportunities to further strengthen relations between South Africa and Zimbabwe. Discussions will focus on deepening bilateral cooperation across key areas of mutual interest, including trade and investment, infrastructure, economic development and other areas that contribute to shared growth and development. The Session will culminate in the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding aimed at further expanding bilateral cooperation in strategic areas. The Heads of State Meeting will be preceded by a Ministerial Meeting, following the Senior Officials Meeting of the Fourth Session of the BNC, which took place yesterday, Tuesday, 18 August 2026. The Ministerial and Senior Officials Meetings serve to prepare matters for consideration by the two Heads of State.

On Friday, 21 August 2026, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa of the Republic of Zimbabwe for the Fourth Session of the South Africa–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Pretoria. Established in April 2015, the BNC serves as the central mechanism for managing and advancing the strategic partnership between South Africa and Zimbabwe. To date, more than 33 agreements and memoranda of understanding have been concluded between the two countries across various areas of cooperation. The Fourth Session will provide an opportunity for the two Heads of State to review progress in implementing existing bilateral commitments and to identify opportunities to further strengthen relations between South Africa and Zimbabwe. Discussions will focus on deepening bilateral cooperation across key areas of mutual interest, including trade and investment, infrastructure, economic development and other areas that contribute to shared growth and development. The Session will culminate in the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding aimed at further expanding bilateral cooperation in strategic areas. The Heads of State Meeting will be preceded by a Ministerial Meeting, following the Senior Officials Meeting of the Fourth Session of the BNC, which took place yesterday, Tuesday, 18 August 2026. The Ministerial and Senior Officials Meetings serve to prepare matters for consideration by the two Heads of State.

SA-Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission Media Engagement by Ubuntu Radio

Professor Dr. Amon Murwira SA-Zimbabwe BNC Closing Remarks by Ubuntu Radio

Minister Ronald Lamola SA-Zimbabwe BNC Closing Remarks by Ubuntu Radio

Professor Dr. Amon Murwira, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Zimbabwe delivered his opening remarks at the ministerial meeting of the Fourth Session of the South Africa–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Pretoria. This BNC comes after 6 years since the last session in 2019. The BNC's focus is on strengthening bilateral cooperation in political, economic, infrastructure, energy, migration and security matters, while promoting trade, investment and business opportunities between the two countries.

Minister Ronald Lamola delivered his opening remarks at the ministerial meeting of the Fourth Session of the South Africa–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Pretoria. This BNC comes after 6 years since the last session in 2019. The BNC's focus is on strengthening bilateral cooperation in political, economic, infrastructure, energy, migration and security matters, while promoting trade, investment and business opportunities between the two countries.

Closing Statement by SADC Chairperson, H.E. Mr. Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa.

Acceptance Statement by SADC Chairperson, H.E. Mr President Ramaphosa at the 46th Ordinary Summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State and Government at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

Vincent Magwenya is the Spokesperson to President Cyril Ramaphosa. The 46th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government, currently happening today 17 August 2026 in Durban, South Africa, convened the Summit under the theme, highlighting the bloc’s focus on accelerating industrialisation, strengthening infrastructure, transforming agriculture, and promoting the beneficiation of critical minerals to achieve sustainable and inclusive economic growth across Southern Africa

H.E Mr Elias Mpedi Magosi, Executive Secretary of SADC 's Introductory remarks during the 46th Ordinary Summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State and Government at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers welcome statement during the 46th Ordinary Summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State and Government at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.The Summit is convened under the theme: “Resilient, sustainable and inclusive industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World”. The Summit provides an opportunity for SADC Member States to consolidate regional cooperation and accelerate regional integration and development, with a focus on industrialisation and regional value chains, infrastructure and regional connectivity, agricultural transformation and food security, peace, security and governance, and the implementation of regional commitments.

Members of the media who are accredited for the 46th SADC Summit taking place in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Province, were invited to a Media Cocktail Reception to be address by the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Hon Ms Thandi Moraka. at the SADC Media Centre, Durban ICC (1st floor foyer, Arena side). Held in partnership with Brand South Africa and the GCIS, the reception presented an opportunity for interaction with the Deputy Minister and also served as the media launch of a new documentary on South Africa’s participation in SADC.

Opening remarks by Mr. Chauncy M.K. Simwaka, Secretary for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Malawi during the Organ Troika Ministerial Committee Of the Organ (MCO).

Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr. Alvin Botes, has concluded a productive working visit to Havana, Cuba. On the margins of the First Fidel International Colloquium at the Havana Convention Palace, the Deputy Minister held bilateral engagements with H.E. Mr. Esteban Lazo Hernández, Speaker of the Cuban Parliament, Ms. Anayansi Rodríguez Camejo, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, and H.E. Dr. Tania Margarita Cruz Hernández, Deputy Minister of Public Health. The discussions reaffirmed the historic bonds of solidarity between South Africa and Cuba. Key areas of focus included strengthening political consultations, deepening parliamentary cooperation, expanding collaboration in health and medical training, and advancing shared positions on multilateral issues and the priorities of the Global South. South Africa remains committed to deepening its strategic partnership with Cuba to build a more just, equitable, and people-centered international system.

The SADC Council of Ministers Meeting is currently underway at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) in South Africa. The meeting serves as the primary preparatory and operational body ahead of the 46th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government scheduled for 16–17 August 2026 ​The meeting, Chaired by South Africa's Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, is guided by the 46th SADC Summit theme: “Resilient, sustainable and inclusive industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World”.

The SADC Council of Ministers Meeting is currently underway at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) in South Africa. The meeting serves as the primary preparatory and operational body ahead of the 46th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government scheduled for 16–17 August 2026 ​The meeting, Chaired by South Africa's Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, is guided by the 46th SADC Summit theme: “Resilient, sustainable and inclusive industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World”.

The #SADC Council of Ministers Meeting of the 46th Ordinary Summit is underway today in Durban as part of the ongoing Summit programme in the Kwazulu-Natal Province. Ministers will consider recommendations from officials and make policy decisions for submission to the Summit. Key issues include industrialisation, infrastructure, regional trade, food security, health, peace and security, regional financing, and institutional reforms.

NATJOINTS MEDIA BRIEFING AHEAD OF THE 46TH SADC SUMMIT. At a briefing today, NATJOINTS outlined a comprehensive, intelligence-led security operation involving law-enforcement and other security agencies. The operation is aimed at protecting Heads of State and Government, delegates, official venues, residents and visitors during the summit.

Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Former Chairperson of the African Union Commission, addressed the dialogue titled “Fidel and the Foreign Policy of the Cuban Revolution” at the First Fidel International Colloquium in Havana, Cuba on 11 August 2026. Dr. Dlamini-Zuma reflected on Fidel Castro’s legacy of international solidarity, anti-imperialism and South-South cooperation. She highlighted how Cuba’s foreign policy continues to inspire Africa’s pursuit of unity, self-determination and a just global order. She spoke on Fidel’s legacy of solidarity and its relevance to Africa’s unity and the Global South today.

Ubuntu Radio spoke to the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes following his official visit to Kingston, Jamaica. The official visit of Deputy Minister Alvin Botes to Jamaica has reaffirmed the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between South Africa and Jamaica. The visit also underscores the importance South Africa places on strengthening partnerships between Africa and the Caribbean, including closer CARICOM–South Africa and CARICOM–African Union relations. The visit also reinforced South Africa’s commitment to strengthening CARICOM–South Africa and CARICOM–African Union relations, advancing the interests of the Global South and supporting the recognition and mainstreaming of the special circumstances of Small Island Developing States in international processes. The visit concludes, but the work of translating shared commitments into practical cooperation continues.

Remarks by Ambassador Tebogo Seokolo, Deputy Director-General of the Africa Branch at DIRCO during the SADC Standing Committee of Senior Officials Meeting in Ethekwini.

Remarks by Ambassador Albert Ranganai Chimbindi, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Republic of Zimbabwe during the SADC Standing Committee of Senior Officials meeting.

Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Mr Alvin Botes delivered a public lecture titled: “The Path to Reparatory Justice for Africans and all People of African Descent.” at the University of the West Indies (UWI) in Kingston, Jamaica, The lecture provided an important platform for reflection and dialogue on the historical injustices of slavery and colonialism, their enduring impact, and the pursuit of justice, dignity and meaningful reparations for Africans and people of African descent. The engagement was organised in collaboration with the PJ Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy (INAFRICARA), further strengthening the bonds between Africa and the Caribbean and advancing shared conversations on justice, solidarity and reparatory action.

Remarks by Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes during a private sector ministerial luncheon hosted by Senator the Honourable Aubyn Hill, Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce of Jamaica held at the AC Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica. 05/08/2026 The engagement brought together key stakeholders from the private sector and provided an opportunity to explore avenues for strengthening trade, investment and economic cooperation between South Africa and Jamaica. Discussions highlighted the importance of creating stronger connections between businesses, identifying areas of mutual opportunity and translating the longstanding political relationship between the two countries into greater commercial and economic partnerships. The engagement forms part of South Africa’s broader efforts to deepen economic diplomacy and strengthen Africa–Caribbean cooperation.

[AUDIO] Acting High Commissioner of South Africa to Jamaica, Ms Phumeza Mukendi previews the official visit by Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes to Kingston, Jamaica, aimed at strengthening the longstanding bonds of friendship and cooperation between South Africa and Jamaica. 03/08/2026

The eThekwini Municipality - His Worship Councillor Cyril Xaba The Government of South Africa, in collaboration with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Business Council and the SADC Secretariat will host the 2026 Annual SADC Industrialisation Week on 27 – 31 July 2026, at the Durban International Convention Centre in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Hosted under the theme, “Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World”, the event is being held as a high-level precursor to the 46th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, and is widely regarded as the largest public-private platform for advancing industrial development in the SADC region

The Government of South Africa, in collaboration with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Business Council and the SADC Secretariat will host the 2026 Annual SADC Industrialisation Week on 27 – 31 July 2026, at the Durban International Convention Centre in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Hosted under the theme, “Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World”, the event is being held as a high-level precursor to the 46th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, and is widely regarded as the largest public-private platform for advancing industrial development in the SADC region

The Government of South Africa, in collaboration with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Business Council and the SADC Secretariat will host the 2026 Annual SADC Industrialisation Week on 27 – 31 July 2026, at the Durban International Convention Centre in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Hosted under the theme, “Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World”, the event is being held as a high-level precursor to the 46th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, and is widely regarded as the largest public-private platform for advancing industrial development in the SADC region

Elias Mogotsi is the Executive Secretary of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Hosted by the South African government in partnership with the SADC Business Council and the SADC Secretariat, the annual gathering is regarded as the region’s premier public-private platform for advancing industrial development, investment and value chain integration. This year’s programme will be held under the theme, “Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World.” According to South Africa’s Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, discussions will focus on accelerating industrialisation through stronger regional cooperation while positioning Southern Africa to benefit from growing global demand for value-added products rather than relying on exports of raw materials. Among the key issues expected to dominate discussions are the development of regional value chains in agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods and critical minerals beneficiation.

Minster of Trade, Industry and Competition Hon Parks Tau delivered the keynote address at the 9TH SADC Industrialization Week. The Southern Africa regional industrialisation programme will this week come under the spotlight at the 9th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Industrialisation Week which kicked off in Durban on Monday. Bringing together government leaders, business executives, investors and development partners to chart a path for economic growth and regional integration. the gathering is held annually by SADC host nations

Ubuntu Radio interview with Mr Johannes Tolo, the CEO and President of Papanyana Holdings, a sponsor to Mama Sehlare’s Project in Shongoane following the handover of 100 sewing machines in Shongoane Village outside Lephalale, Limpopo. 23/072026

Ubuntu Radio interview with Deputy Minister Thandi Moraka following the handover of 100 sewing machines to Mama Sehlare’s Project in Shongoane Village outside Lephalale, Limpopo. 23/072026

Ubuntu Radio interview with HE Mr Dong-han Yang, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea following the handover of 100 sewing machines to Mama Sehlare’s Project in Shongoane Village outside Lephalale, Limpopo. 23/072026

Remarks by Deputy Minister Thandi Moraka during the handover of 100 sewing machines to Mama Sehlare’s Project in Shongoane Village outside Lephalale, Limpopo. 23/072026

Remarks by HE Mr Dong-han Yang, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea during the handover of 100 sewing machines to Mama Sehlare’s Project in Shongoane Village outside Lephalale, Limpopo. 23/072026

South Africa and Germany have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their Strategic Partnership, with discussions focusing on expanding economic cooperation, accelerating the Just Energy Transition and addressing pressing global challenges, including conflicts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Ukraine and the Middle East. Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola hosted Germany’s Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Johann Wadephul, on a working visit to South Africa on Wednesday and Thursday, with the two Ministers holding a tête-à-tête earlier on Thursday before convening official talks. The visit follows the 12th Meeting of the South Africa-Germany Bi-National Commission (BNC), held in Berlin in April 2026, which marked 30 years of the mechanism and saw both countries elevate their relationship to a Strategic Partnership. The two countries also adopted a Joint Action Plan aimed at translating the enhanced partnership into practical areas of cooperation. Lamola said the latest discussions were aimed at reviewing progress in implementing the Action Plan and identifying areas where cooperation should be accelerated. “I am pleased to report that our engagement was frank, warm and productive. We reviewed implementation across the Action Plan, took stock of the progress made and agreed on the areas in which we must move faster,” Lamola said. Germany remains one of South Africa’s most important trading partners in Europe, with bilateral trade valued at approximately R295 billion in 2025. More than 600 German companies operate in South Africa, employing around 100 000 people. Lamola said economic cooperation formed a key part of the discussions, particularly around expanding trade and investment, cooperation on critical raw materials and developing a battery value chain that supports industrialisation and job creation in South Africa. “We discussed the expansion of trade and investment, cooperation on critical raw materials, and the development of a battery value chain that creates value and jobs here in South Africa,” he said. The Ministers also discussed cooperation under the Just Energy Transition Partnership, which supports South Africa’s transition towards cleaner energy while ensuring social and economic considerations are addressed. “We also discussed the Just Energy Transition Partnership, which supports our shift towards cleaner energy in a manner that is socially just, as well as our long-standing cooperation on vocational education and training. This cooperation speaks directly to the urgent challenge of youth employment,” Lamola said. The Strategic Partnership between the two countries also places emphasis on strengthening political dialogue. Lamola said both sides had agreed to institutionalise regular high-level engagements between their foreign ministries. “Our intention is to ensure that engagement of this kind becomes a standing feature of our partnership, rather than an occasional event,” he said. The two ministers further agreed to deepen cooperation on strengthening democratic resilience, including efforts to counter disinformation. “We further agreed to advance practical cooperation on strengthening democratic resilience, including through efforts to counter disinformation, an area in which both our societies face similar pressures,” Lamola said. Beyond bilateral matters, the talks covered major international developments, including peace and security challenges on the African continent, particularly the situation in eastern DRC, the war in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. On the Middle East, Lamola reiterated South Africa’s position, calling for the implementation of the ceasefire, humanitarian access and a political solution based on international law.

South African High Commissioner to Canada, H.E. Rieaz Shaik, speaking to Ubuntu Radio about Deputy Minister Alvin Botes’ working visit to Saskatchewan, Canada, 21 July 2026. by Ubuntu Radio