Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, [email protected]
African Integrated Development Expert Dr Paul Jourdan has paid tribute to Zimbabwe for the support it extended to South African liberation fighters during the anti-apartheid struggle, describing the country’s role as invaluable during one of the region’s defining historical periods.
Dr Jourdan made the remarks while addressing delegates at the 29th Mine Entra Conference and Exhibition in Bulawayo, where he reflected on Zimbabwe’s solidarity with South Africans following developments linked to the 1984 Nkomati Accord.
“I come from South Africa, emaXhoseni.
“During the liberation struggle of South Africa, I worked closely with Zimbabwe.
“Later, after Nkomati agreement, you kindly allowed me to move here freely.
“I must thank you very much for hosting us here,” said Dr Jourdan.
The Nkomati Accord, signed on March 16, 1984, by Mozambique’s President Samora Machel and South Africa’s then Prime Minister PW Botha, was a non-aggression and good-neighbourliness pact between the two countries.
Under the agreement, South Africa undertook to stop supporting the Renamo rebel movement in Mozambique.
In return, Mozambique agreed not to allow liberation movements, including the African National Congress (ANC) and the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), to establish bases or transport arms and personnel through its territory.
The accord forced many anti-apartheid activists to relocate from Mozambique, with Zimbabwe becoming one of the countries that provided refuge and operational space for members of South Africa’s liberation movements.
Dr Jourdan’s remarks indicate the enduring historical ties between Zimbabwe and South Africa, forged through the region’s collective struggle against colonialism and apartheid.
His acknowledgement came as delegates at Mine Entra discussed strategies to unlock Africa’s mineral wealth and promote regional economic development, with speakers emphasising the importance of cooperation among African countries in advancing sustainable industrialisation and inclusive growth.
