APC and ANC Meeting Minutes Discussed

A recap of the proceedings from the joint session between the All Progressives Congress (APC) South Africa and ANC, conducted on September 12, 2024, at ANC House in Johannesburg, South Africa. The meeting included nine senior ANC officials and nineteen APC-SA executives, along with leading figures from the Nigerian community in South Africa. The discussion addressed various crucial matters:

• Attendees:

• ANC representatives, including Comrade Nomvula Mokonyane (1st DSG) and various committee members
• APC Nigerian Community representatives, including Hon. Oyekanmi Oluwatoyin and other delegates

• Meeting Context:

• Established in response to Former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s call for People to People engagement between Nigeria and South Africa during the BRICS Political Parties meeting in July 2023

1. Main Discussion Points:
   a. Historical Relationship:
   • Nigeria’s role in the anti-apartheid struggle was acknowledged
2. • Emphasis on the responsibility of both countries to work together for mutual growth and prosperity
   b. Social Relations:
   • Addressed tensions between Nigerians living in South Africa and local communities
3. • Discussed the need for mutual understanding and respect
4. • Highlighted the importance of social cohesion and nation-building
   c. Framework for Effective Partnership:
   • Focus on mutual collaboration and shared programs
5. • Emphasis on pragmatic approaches benefiting both countries
   d. Youth and Skills Development:
   • Identified as a crucial area to address tensions and create opportunities
   e. Trade Relations:
   • Discussed the need for economic opportunities benefiting South AfricaEmphasis on skill transfer and economic growth for both nations
   f. Security and Safety:
   • Addressed concerns about criminality and stereotypes
6. • Discussed the need for fair treatment and understanding on both sides
   g. Immigration and Legal Status:
7. Key Challenges Identified:

• High levels of mistrust between South African and Nigerian communities
• Stereotypes and misconceptions on both sides
• Identity crisis for children of Nigerian parentage in South Africa
• Negative perceptions fueled by social media

• Proposed Solutions:

• Joint community initiatives (e.g., city cleaning projects)
• Setting up neighborhood watches with Community Police Forums
• Political education campaigns, especially on social media
• Developing programs to bring communities together in key provinces (KZN, Western Cape, and Gauteng)
• Open discussions to resolve issues and combat stereotypes

• Action Items:

• ANC to embark on political education at ward levels in three key provinces
• Develop coherent and consistent messages for community integration
• Further engagement to monitor progress
• Potential travel across South African provinces to implement strategies for peaceful co-existence

The meeting concluded with a commitment from both parties to work towards better understanding, integration, and mutual benefit for Nigerian and South African communities. APC and ANC issued joint statements. You can read the official minutes released here and the draft joint statement here.