Op-ed: Zuma’s endorsement signals a shift in African diplomacy
Zuma Endorses Moroccan Sahara Plan: A Historic Shift in African Diplomacy
Former South African President Jacob Zuma's recent visit to Morocco marked a significant turning point in the ongoing Western Sahara dispute. Zuma publicly and unequivocally endorsed Morocco's Autonomy Plan for the region, signaling a growing consensus that this initiative offers the most realistic path to resolving the long-standing conflict.
A Vision Rooted in Realism
During his trip to Rabat, Zuma, accompanied by senior officials from his MK Party, met with Moroccan authorities and declared clear support for Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara. The MK Party released an official document titled “Strategic Partnership for African Unity, Economic Emancipation, and Territorial Integrity,” affirming that the Moroccan Sahara is a historical and legitimate reality, and that the Autonomy Plan represents a fair and lasting solution.
This stance marks a departure from outdated policies and highlights Zuma's ability to transcend rigid ideological divisions. Instead of clinging to Cold War-era rhetoric, he has shown courage in embracing a compromise-based solution focused on coexistence and development.
The Moroccan Autonomy Plan: A Blueprint for Peace
Morocco's Autonomy Plan, first presented to the United Nations in 2007, proposes substantial self-rule for the Saharan provinces within Moroccan sovereignty. The plan includes locally elected governments, legislative institutions, and judicial independence, all guaranteed by a constitution. Morocco would retain authority over key sovereign matters like defense and foreign affairs, consistent with internationally recognized autonomy models.
This initiative is already being implemented through significant investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare in Laâyoune, Dakhla, and other southern provinces. These regions have become symbols of successful integration and inclusive development, garnering praise from observers worldwide.
Zuma’s Support: A Turning Point?
Zuma's endorsement may signal a strategic shift in South Africa's position. While the ruling African National Congress (ANC) continues to support the now-isolated Polisario Front and the unrecognized Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), the MK Party’s stance reflects realpolitik and African cooperation.
Many in Africa and beyond believe it is time for South Africa to reassess its outdated position and align with Morocco—a country that has returned to the African Union and consistently demonstrated its commitment to continental solidarity, stability, and mutual respect.
Growing International Consensus
Zuma's support aligns with a growing international consensus. In recent years, a wave of recognition has elevated the Autonomy Plan as the most credible, serious, and realistic framework for peace. The United States, France, and the United Kingdom—three permanent members of the UN Security Council—have officially endorsed Morocco's plan. Dozens of countries in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean have withdrawn recognition of the SADR. Even nations once aligned with the Polisario have changed course, such as Kenya, Ghana, and Panama.
This demonstrates that the tide of international diplomacy has turned. The world no longer supports separatist illusions or political stagnation. Instead, there is a growing understanding that Morocco’s plan offers dignity, stability, and prosperity—not only for the Saharan populations but for the entire region.
A Call for African Unity
By backing Morocco's initiative, Zuma positioned himself on the right side of African history. He has chosen dialogue, cooperation, and unity over fueling endless conflict. His visit sends a clear message: Africa must move beyond ideological residues of the past and embrace a shared future based on partnership, sovereignty, and justice.
Morocco has championed this vision through its investments in Saharan infrastructure, openness to negotiation under UN auspices, and growing partnerships across the continent. Rabat has made it clear that Africa's future lies in African-led solutions rooted in legitimacy, respect for territorial integrity, and inclusive governance.
A Strategic Win for Morocco—and Africa
Morocco’s patient, forward-looking diplomacy is now bearing fruit. Its clear and consistent approach to the Sahara—combining territorial integrity with openness to meaningful autonomy—has proven that peace is possible when vision meets action. The Sahara is no longer a zone of stagnation; it is becoming a bridge between Morocco, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the wider world.
Unity Through Leadership
Jacob Zuma's visit to Morocco is not merely a political statement—it is a call to action. It challenges African leaders to move beyond ideological deadlocks and embrace a shared future based on partnership, sovereignty, and justice. The Moroccan Autonomy Plan is not just a policy document; it is a roadmap for the entire continent to follow.
As the international community continues to rally behind Morocco, and as more African voices join the chorus, the time has come for South Africa—and all of Africa—to recognize that unity must be built on truth, vision, and courageous leadership.