South African ambassador Welile Nhlapo, scheduled to speak at “An Evening on South Africa” held at the IUS Library, Thursday, Feb. 12, was unable to attend due to sudden illness.
Taking his place was Pakamisa Sifuba, the head of the political section of the South African embassy in Washington, D.C. Also speaking was the former ambassador of Lesotho, Molelekeng Rapolaki, and Stephen Hayes, president and CEO of the Corporate Council on Africa.
“This event is geared to help students broaden their horizons, to see that Africa isn’t all bad news and what the United States can do to assist in the process,” Cliff Staten, dean of social sciences, said.
The former ambassador and guest speakers discussed and spoke on the current South African and Lesotho democracy improvements since apartheid, as well as the challenges ahead.
“The government has managed a peaceful transition to democracy that stuns other countries,” Sifuba said.
“The most important tribute to success was that South Africa decided to plan their own democracy rather than letting outsiders decide.”
While South Africa was suffering through apartheid, Lesotho, the small land-locked country inside of South Africa, acted as an oasis to South Africans.
Even though Lesotho had trouble with an outside dictator, they too are now concentrating on creating problem free elections and their country’s maturity since apartheid.
“Lesotho has a long way to go, but in terms of maturity, we are well on our way,” Rapolaki said.
Economically speaking, Hayes was more concerned with Africa in general.
Hayes said he believes by creating a stronger economy through entrepreneurs and investments, will help develop Africa.
“Africa needs economic development,” Hayes said.
“The U.S. has had a lousy relationship with South Africa, and Africa in general, during the past eight years. Hopefully we will see an improvement in the future.”
Rapolaki, Sifuba and Hayes were available to answer questions and respond to comments from attendees after their lectures.
Evan Wray, Jonathan Detch and Austin Mann, Silver Creek High School juniors, attending at their teacher’s recommendation, expressed interest in the political history and development of South Africa.
“I now have more knowledge of the current economy and development in South Africa and Lesotho since the 19th century,” Mann said.
By GRACE STAMPER
Staff Writer
gstamper@ius.edu