The U.S. or China: South Africa May Soon Have to Choose – The China-Global South Project

There is mounting evidence that indicates the United States government may force South Africa to make a once-unthinkable choice: it’s either the U.S. or China, but it can’t be both. The president addressed the issue this week and said, “the South Africa situation is very dangerous and very bad for a lot of people.”
The president and his supporters are angry over South Africa’s opposition to Israel in the Gaza War, Pretoria’s close ties with Washington’s rivals in Tehran and Moscow, and the country’s multifaceted relationship with China — including its longstanding memberships in the BRICS and the Belt and Road Initiative. 
Johannesburg-based political analyst Nkateko Mabasa joins Eric & Cobus to discuss how South Africans, namely President Cyril Ramaphosa, are responding to the intense pressure from the United States and what it means for the Rainbow nation’s ties with China.
Show Notes:
About Nkateko Mabasa:
Nkateko Mabasa’s work has been featured on prominent platforms such as the Mail and Guardian, Al Jazeera English, The China-Global South Project (CGSP), Daily Maverick, and Huffington Post, where he has delivered breaking news, in-depth political analysis, and thought-provoking reflections. Nkateko has played pivotal roles in political campaigns, serving as a speechwriter and youth organizer for Change Starts Now (CSN) and debate coordinator for Rise Mzansi during South Africa’s 2024 national elections. With a passion for impactful storytelling and policy reform, he excels at distilling complex issues into clear, engaging narratives, making him a dynamic voice in South Africa’s socio-political landscape.
The China-Global South Project is passionately independent, non-partisan and does not advocate for any country, company or culture.
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