In a fragmenting global order, South Africa has boldly chosen a path of strategic autonomy, seeking to navigate between major powers as an independent, non-aligned actor. This high-risk approach, however, demands exceptional skill and preparation to succeed. According to analysts, the nation must focus on three critical areas to achieve success. First, it must prioritize African economic integration, leveraging the continental free trade area to transform from a raw material exporter into a manufacturing hub and gain collective leverage. Second, it must pursue bureaucratic excellence by professionalizing its diplomatic corps and security apparatus, moving beyond political appointments. Finally, it must prepare for inevitable reprisals from powerful nations by developing diplomatic agility and securing alternative allies and markets for its products. Without these reforms, analysts say, Pretoria’s ambitions risk falling short.
The Conversation
