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Articles by Ronald Lamola
“As a leading destination for migrants on the continent, South Africa cannot shoulder the pressures of irregular migration alone”
I draw inspiration for today’s reflections from Adom Getachew’s 2019 book, Worldmaking after Empire. It is from this work that I derive the title of my address: The Task Is Ours. Getachew examines how generations of anticolonial thinkers and leaders sought not only to liberate their countries from colonial rule, but also to remake the international order that had sustained their domination.
White genocide peddlers converging with anti-migrant organisers - Ronald Lamola
Remarks by Minister Ronald O Lamola on the occasion of the Second Global Africa and the African Diaspora Conference, OR Tambo International Conference Centre, Birchwood, 27 October 2026 27 October 2026 Thank you, Programme Director, Art Bishop Sthembele Siphuka, Distinguished delegates, Allow me to congratulate the organisers on convening this important conference, particularly after the first conference could not be held in person due to the disruptions caused by the COVID pandemic.
US Spends Big to Attract Afrikaner Refugees. Few Apply
Only five South Africans were admitted to the United States as refugees in the last fiscal year, out of 16,292 admissions in total, and that number sits at the center of a puzzle US officials are now prepared to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to solve: why so few white Afrikaners have applied to a refugee program built specifically for them.
Future of Europe-Africa Relations: From Intent to Practice – Ronald Lamola
Minister Ronald O Lamola’s Keynote Address on the “Future of Europe-Africa Relations: From Intent to Practice”, Pretoria, 12 October 2026 12 October 2026 Programme Director, Ms Ottilia Maunganidze Chair of ISS Board, Dr Jakkie Cilliers and Directors of Partner Institutes, Representatives of the German Federation of Industries, Representatives of the SWP, The Kiel Institute and the German Institute of Development and Sustainability, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Distinguished guests, Ladies...
Worst Case Scenario: What US Tensions Mean for SA Jobs
When a foreign minister tells citizens to prepare for a “worst case scenario”, the question stops being one of diplomatic protocol. It becomes a question of livelihoods: jobs tied to exports, tourists and the spending they bring, farmers who depend on markets, and the investment that sustains employment.
Durban Declaration of 2001 a pivotal moment - Ronald Lamola
Remarks by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald O Lamola on the occasion of the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Meeting to Commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Adoption of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, 28 September 2026 28 September 2026 President of the General Assembly, Secretary-General of the United Nations, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, Twenty-five years ago, the world...
Israel violations constitute genocide - Ronald Lamola
UNGA81 General Debate: South Africa’s National Statement by Minister Ronald Lamola, Head of Delegation on “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All”, 24 September 2026 24 September 2026 President of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Mr Khalilur Rahman, Secretary-General, Mr Antonio Guterres, Excellencies, Heads of State and Government, Ladies and Gentlemen, Mr President, This day the 24th of September is a national day immense...
Restoring trust or running out of time? Lamola’s case for a UN that delivers
Sixty years ago, in the chambers of this Assembly, the United Nations adopted a resolution condemning apartheid as a crime against humanity. The demise of apartheid freed the people of South Africa from racial segregation and slaughter, domination and deprivation, humiliation and exploitation. But it was not only the people of South Africa who were unchained when apartheid collapsed. The end of apartheid also marked the end of a system that exported violence and instability across southern Africa.
South Africa Resists US Pressure; Maintains Stand on Land Reform, BEE, Israel Case
PRETORIA HOLDS FIRM ON CORE POLICIES AS US ESCALATES PRESSURE International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola has drawn clear lines: South Africa will not retreat on land reform, black economic empowerment, or its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, even as the United States intensifies pressure through tariffs, visa restrictions, and diplomatic exclusion.
ICJ: We acted to stop Israel’s impunity - Ronald Lamola
Remarks by Minister Ronald O Lamola at the Public Event entitled “We Shall Not Be Moved: A Special Event in Honour of the UN Charter”, The Riverside Church, New York City, 21 September 2026 21 September 2026 Good evening to all our friends. Thank you to Senator Bernie Sanders for that warm introduction and for reminding us that the pursuit of social justice and freedom is an intergenerational and lifelong calling.
South Africa Contests US Visa Curbs as Sovereignty Breach; Lamola Demands Policy Respect
Ronald Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, has pushed back against visa restrictions announced by United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, calling the move a mischaracterization of South African domestic policy and demanding respect for national sovereignty. Lamola’s statement places the blame squarely on what he describes as fringe groups claiming to represent minorities and Afrikaner communities in South Africa.
South Africa urges respect for democracy and sovereignty following latest US statements on domestic policy
The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Mr Ronald Lamola has noted with concern the unilateral visa restrictions announced by his counterpart Secretary Marco Rubio. The announcement once again, aligns with the mischaracterisation of South Africa’s domestic policies by fringe groups who wrongly portray themselves as representatives of “minorities” and Afrikaners in general.
RONALD LAMOLA | Brics solidarity on show at summit
Story audio is generated using AI What happens if we do not emerge with a declaration? How do we communicate this to the people of South Africa? What would be our message given that the May foreign ministers’ meeting had failed to reach consensus, leading to renewed scepticism among commentators who described the Brics bloc as mired in the quicksand of expansion and fraught geopolitics?
RONALD LAMOLA | SA-Brazil: dismissing relations as pure politics is off the mark
On August 26 I co-chaired the eighth session of the South Africa-Brazil Joint Commission in Pretoria with my counterpart, Brazil’s foreign affairs minister, Mauro Vieira. On both sides senior officials from departments responsible for trade, minerals, energy, defence, science and innovation, tourism and justice met with their counterparts. This fact seems to have been lost on Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA).
Ronald Lamola Outlines South Africa’s Priorities for SADC Chairpersonship
KwaZulu-Natal, 12 August 2026. Acceptance speech and opening remarks by Mr. Ronald O. Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa, on the occasion of the SADC Council of Ministers.
Ronald Lamola Outlines South Africa’s Priorities for SADC Chairpersonship
KwaZulu-Natal, 12 August 2026. Acceptance speech and opening remarks by Mr. Ronald O. Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa, on the occasion of the SADC Council of Ministers.
Lamola calls for 50% intra-SADC trade during SA’s SADC leadership
International Relations and Co-operation Minister Ronald Lamola says South Africa will push to increase trade between SADC member states to 50% and ensure the region benefits from its critical-mineral wealth during its 2026–2027 leadership. Lamola was speaking in Durban on Wednesday as South Africa formally accepted the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Chairpersonship at the Council of Ministers meeting.
Anil Sooklal recalled to Headquarters for consultations - Ronald Lamola
Media Statement delivered by Minister Ronald Lamola during the media briefing on current developments relating to South Africa’s foreign policy priorities and programmes, and international developments, at the OR Tambo Building, in Pretoria, South Africa, 5 August 2026 5 August 2026 As South Africa commemorates the 30th anniversary of our Constitution and in this month marks the 70th anniversary of the heroic 1956 women’s march, we celebrate far more than a historic legal milestone.
Three core concerns raised with Nigeria - DIRCO
South Africa continues diplomatic engagements with Nigeria on migration, governance, and regional security 27 July 2026 The Special Envoy of President Cyril Ramaphosa to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, the Honourable Ronald Lamola, MP, has concluded a diplomatic mission to Abuja. During the visit, Minister Lamola delivered an official message from President Ramaphosa to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
South Africa Uses Year of Historical Significance to Recommit to Constitutionalism, Multilateralism and Youth Empowerment
This year, South Africa commemorates two defining milestones in our democratic journey: the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising of 16 June 1976 and the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution. Both milestones remind us that democracy is neither inevitable nor self-sustaining: it is built through sacrifice, protected through active citizenship and strengthened through each generation's commitment to freedom, justice and equality.
South Africa uses year of historical significance to recommit to constitutionalism, multilateralism and youth empowerment
By Ronald Lamola, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation This year, South Africa commemorates two defining milestones in our democratic journey: the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising of 16 June 1976 and the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution.
Lamola insists US cannot exclude South Africa from G20 Summit
MEETING OF BRICS MINISTERS Minister Ronald Lamola is in New Delhi, India, for the Meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs/International Relations, which is being hosted under India’s BRICS Chairship on 14 and 15 May 2026. Image: Ronald Lamola/X The United States of America (US) does not have the power to exclude South Africa from the G20 Summit in December, given that it is a founding member. So said Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.
Govt's response to proposed AU debate on "Xenophobic attacks" in SA - DIRCO
South Africa’s response to the request by the Republic of Ghana for a debate at the AU on the “Xenophobic Attacks in the Republic of South Africa against African Nationals” 8 May 2026 The Government of the Republic of South Africa has noted the request by the Republic of Ghana for a debate at the upcoming African Union (AU) Mid-Year Coordination Summit scheduled to take place in Cairo, Arab Republic of Egypt, on the 24th of June 2026 on what it calls “Xenophobic Attacks in the Republic of...
South Africa: Our Freedom Is a Product of Intangible Solidarity
Those who have had the opportunity to carefully study South Africa's road to democracy would most likely agree with the assertion that our democracy is a special product of intangible solidarity.
Our freedom is a product of intangible solidarity
By Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Those who have had the opportunity to carefully study South Africa’s road to democracy would most likely agree with the assertion that our democracy is a special product of intangible solidarity.
Our freedom is a product of intangible solidarity
This article is an Opinion, which presents the writer’s personal point of view. The views expressed are those of the author/authors and do not necessarily represent the views of Daily Maverick. This year marks 32 years since we chose a path of democracy. Today, we must resist the urge to turn inward, but continue to work for regional integration. Ronald Lamola is South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation.
South Africa: A Response to Secretary Rubio's Substack post
Secretary Rubio, I have read your Substack post from 3 December 2025. From the outset, let me extend congratulations to the United States on assuming the G20 Presidency. We offer our sincere wishes for a successful term, one that we hope will serve the cause of global unity and inclusive progress.
RONALD LAMOLA | SA’s G20: a bold attempt to write an African story
South Africa’s G20 presidency has drawn to a close. Johannesburg will soon settle back into its normal rhythm. Many of the visitors are home, while others have stayed on to enjoy what else our country has to offer. What will linger long is the story of a presidency that placed Africa’s voice and agency at the centre of the G20, along with the Declarations of the Summit.
Gaza genocide: Where does impunity end?
In 1945, at the closing session of the historical conference held in San Francisco with the aim of establishing the United Nations, US President Harry Truman : "By their own example the strong nations of the world should lead the way to international justice. That principle of justice is the foundation stone of this Charter.
News Details - Gauteng Provincial Government
âThembisa Shologu Gauteng has made substantial progress in revitalising its infrastructure in preparation for the upcoming G20 Leaders' Summit, says Premier Panyaza Lesufi. The summit will be held from 22-23 November at Nasrec. South Africa is the first African country to lead the G20.
SA will continue to engage with all sides and hold the line on law, humanity
There is a strong narrative and a seemingly strident lobby in South Africa that insists our foreign policy should take the form of direct affiliation with the US and the broader West. It floats in parts of civil society and the media and is closely connected to foreign policy networks abroad. Their thesis is simple: do what they (we) say, they (we) know better. Don't want to see this? Remove ads Our position is just as clear: the world has changed in fundamental ways since our democratic settlement.
Estados Unidos impone aranceles a Sudáfrica y pone en jaque 30.000 empleos industriales
Por Agroempresario.com La reciente decisión del gobierno de Estados Unidos de aplicar un arancel del 30% a productos sudafricanos amenaza con afectar gravemente la economía del país africano, poniendo en riesgo directo unos 30.000 empleos. Esta medida, impulsada por la administración de Donald Trump y efectiva desde el 8 de agosto, impacta especialmente a sectores clave como el automotriz, la agricultura y la industria manufacturera.
Breaking down barriers: How to unlock private investment for sustainable development in emerging markets
ATTRACTINGprivate investment in developing countries remains a significant challenge due to a range of structural and systemic issues. One of the foremost barriers is political and regulatory volatility. Frequent policy shifts, coupled with weak institutions and inconsistent regulatory frameworks, create a climate of uncertainty that undermines investor confidence. This unpredictability hampers long-term planning and complicates risk assessments.
Honouring the Insurgent Diplomat: South Africa Reaffirms Commitment to Peace, Multilateralism and African Unity
THE current generation of South Africans must deepen the foundations we have inherited from previous generation stalwarts, such as the former Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Aziz Pahad, a true servant diplomat. Known as the “Insurgent Diplomat,” as the title of his biography suggests, Aziz Pahad will be remembered as a man of deep conviction and principle.
South Africa’s G20 presidency, bridging North-South gaps
With the South Africa G20 presidency’s theme of solidarity, equality and sustainability, we are at a critical juncture as we face interconnected global challenges. Our recent G20 foreign ministers meeting took place at the National Agriculture Sports Recreation Events Centre (NASREC), a crucial site for urban development, where NASREC and its surrounding community symbolise the importance of bridging gaps between the Global North and South.
South Africa’s G20 presidency: A vital opportunity for global unity and sustainable progress
Editor's note: This viewpoint is part of Chapter 6 of Foresight Africa 2025-2030, a report with cutting-edge insights and actionable strategies for Africa’s inclusive and sustainable development in the run-up to 2030. Read the full chapter on global partnerships. By prioritizing economic empowerment and sustainability, we hope South Africa can set a precedent for future G20 meetings, ultimately reinforcing a narrative of hope, resilience, and collective action.
SADC leaders convene for summit
International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, is participating in the two-day meeting of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Council of Ministers in Harare this week. The meeting, which started on Tuesday takes place ahead of the 44th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government and concludes on Wednesday.
SA’s mission is to help Africa assert its global role
SA’s mission is to help Africa assert its global role New foreign minister Ronald Lamola spells out how he sees the country’s place in the changing world 07 July 2024 - 00:00 By RONALD LAMOLA South Africa is now a melting pot of culture, language and life, showcasing sovereignty and history alongside continuity and change. As the cradle of humankind, South Africa has remained strategically important.
Ronald Lamola | Why the ANC created a framework for a new government – and how it can survive | News24
The ANC’s intention in creating a framework for a new government of national unity is to ensure broad representation – but also that it might bring a fresh way of thinking, writes Ronald Lamola. The quest for governance and leadership is ancient, from the times of Magoshi, buKhosi and such civilisations as in Mapungubwe to MonoMotapa. A nation chose leaders from amongst its warriors.
Ronald Lamola | Why the ANC created a framework for a new government – and how it can survive | News24
The ANC’s intention in creating a framework for a new government of national unity is to ensure broad representation – but also that it might bring a fresh way of thinking, writes Ronald Lamola. The quest for governance and leadership is ancient, from the times of Magoshi, buKhosi and such civilisations as in Mapungubwe to MonoMotapa. A nation chose leaders from amongst its warriors.
RONALD LAMOLA | Reflecting on 28 years since the Truth & Reconciliation Commission
RONALD LAMOLA | Reflecting on 28 years since the Truth & Reconciliation Commission The anniversary coincides with the celebration of 30 years of constitutional democracy in South Africa 18 April 2024 - 15:54 By RONALD LAMOLA On Monday April 15 2024, South Africa observed the 28th anniversary of the commencement of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
Ubuntu and a human rights culture remains our lodestar
The iconic and disturbing photographs from the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre capture the funeral of 69 people shortly after the tragic event, as seen in an aerial image taken by renowned photographer Jürgen Schadeberg. The photograph of a long line of graves and trucks transporting the victims’ coffins vividly portrays the human tragedy. This powerful image serves as a symbol of the hardships faced by black South Africans during apartheid, shedding light on the inhumane treatment they endured.
Load shedding could cost ANC dearly at the polls, minister admits
South Africa’s energy insecurity presents the biggest risk to the ANC’s election prospects, justice minister Ronald Lamola said.
" Avec la plainte de l’Afrique du Sud contre Israël pour génocide, le Sud conteste une mémoire dominée par la Shoah et lui oppose celle de la colonisation " - Haiti24
Barbancourt le rhum des connaisseurs Ce n’est pas tout à fait un hasard si l’un des plus brillants conseils de l’équipe de juristes qui plaide le recours de l’Afrique du Sud contre Israël, accusé de génocide devant la Cour internationale de justice (CIJ), est une avocate irlandaise.
Statement By Ronald Lamola At The International Court Of Justice
IN FULL | Statement by Ronald Lamola at the International Court of Justice 12 January 2024 - 09:52 By Ronald Lamola Next Article Would you like to comment on this article? Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
IN FULL | Statement by Ronald Lamola at the International Court of Justice
12 January 2024 - 09:52 Support independent journalism. Subscribe to our digital news package for R80 p/m. Minister of justice Ronald Lamola at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherlands on January 11 2024. The statement by Ronald Lamola, MP and minister of justice and correctional services of South Africa, at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
In integrity there is justice
As the world grapples with the assertion of the rule of law, from Israeli-Palestine to the conflict in Ukraine, now more than we ever we need to see people with integrity and intellectual rigour being at the forefront of the struggle for human rights triumph against the indignations of injustice — to borrow an idea from Che Guevara. The ANC was founded by people of this calibre. Among them was Duma Nokwe.
Thabo Bester saga: prisoners' rights group wants Lamola to step down
JOHANNESBURG – The South African Prisoners Organisation for Human Rights (Sapohr) made a call for Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola and involved parties in the brazen escape of a convicted rapist and murderer to be removed from their positions for failing to do their jobs.
Address by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the National Conference on the Constitution, Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg
Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Mr Ronald Lamola, Justices of the Constitutional Court and Supreme Court of Appeal, Judges President and Judges, Ministers and Deputy Ministers, Acting Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Hon Jomo Nyambi, Members of the National Assembly and National Council of Provinces, Heads of Chapter 9 Institutions, Traditional Leaders, Chancellor of the University of Venda, Adv Mojanku Gumbi, Vice Chancellors of Institutions of Higher...
Address by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Human Rights Day, De Aar West Sports Ground, Northern Cape
Programme Directors: Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Mr Zizi Kodwa, and, MEC for Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation, Ms Desery Fienies, Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Mr Ronald Lamola, Ministers and Deputy Ministers, Premier of the Northern Cape, Dr Zamani Saul, Premier of the Free State, Mr Mxolisi Dukwana, Chairperson of the South African Human Rights Commission, Prof Bongani Majola, Executive Mayor of Pixley Ka Seme District Municipality, Cllr Rhoode Itumeleng, Mayor...
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