Africa must now shape the rules, not just react to them
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Africa is urged to take an active role in shaping its future rather than merely responding to external pressures. The legacy of Nelson Mandela serves as a reminder of the importance of courage, accountability, and ethical leadership in this endeavor. As the continent faces numerous challenges, it must assert its voice in global conversations and redefine the principles of justice and participation.
- ▪Africa must not remain on the margins of global conscience and should shape the rules rather than react to them.
- ▪Nelson Mandela's legacy emphasizes the need for courage, accountability, and ethical leadership in shaping Africa's future.
- ▪South Africa's actions, such as bringing proceedings against Israel at the International Court of Justice, highlight its role as a moral witness.
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Africa must now shape the rules, not just react to them Fifty years after the June 16 uprising, Nelson Mandela’s legacy needs to be a challenge to the present, where he is remembered for his courage, accountability, institution building and his ethical use of power. By Mbongiseni Buthelezi 4 Jun 2026 Dr Mbongiseni Buthelezi is the chief executive of the Nelson Mandela Foundation. Dive Deeper Speed Read Listen Dive Deeper As South Africa marks Youth Month and reflects on the role of young people in shaping our democratic future, it is worth revisiting a question that extends beyond our borders and across the African continent: who is shaping the future of Africa?Africa Month cannot be reduced to an annual ritual of pride, symbolism and memory.
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