South Africa’s Ramaphosa goes to Botswana for first presidential trip
Today, newly elected South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will arrive in Botswana on his first trip abroad.
His ascension comes after the recent resignation of the scandal-ridden Jacob Zuma whose presidency integrated South Africa further into world affairs. However, some saw his foreign policy as lacking in human rights policy and marred by an over dependency on trade with China. South Africa’s reputation has also particularly suffered from Zuma’s accusations of corruption, which have deterred international investors.
The ruling ANC recently announced changes in its foreign policy platform which now includes downgrading South Africa’s relationship with Israel due to its presence in Palestine. However, it remains unclear whether the more moderate Ramaphosa will actually implement these party recommendations.
As Ramaphosa attempts to tackle a struggling economy at home, reaffirming international confidence through visits to neighbouring countries such as Botswana will be critical. The new president will also likely be pushed by his party to support further human rights initiatives in Africa where his country is one of the most stable and well developed.
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