Solidarity to Strategy: Reviewing Commitments to Pan-Africanism and Regional Integration Post-1990s by Lusaka, Harare, and Pretoria Nexus
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https://orcid.org/0009-0006-1205-3427
Sbusiso Gwala
University of Johannesburg
https://orcid.org/0009-0003-8950-1564
Ngako Clement Seoketsa
University of Johannesburg
https://orcid.org/0009-0008-3229-1128
Tinyiko Emily Nkuna
University of Johannesburg
Luyanda Fisokuhle Nsibande
University of Johannesburg
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-0498-3517
Thandolwethu Princess Khumalo
University of Johannesburg
https://orcid.org/0009-0009-4224-8737
Risuna Natasha Sono
University of Johannesburg
https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0452-0148
Patience Gugu Nkosi
University of Johannesburg
https://orcid.org/0009-0002-1350-4585
Akhona Lindiswa Nhlanhla
University of Johannesburg
Abstract
This study looks at how South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia approached their commitments to regional integration and Pan-Africanism since the 1990s. Using a qualitative, comparative desktop method and theme analysis, it explores how each country’s political views, economic standing, diplomatic strategies, and historical heritage have shaped its roles and contributions in the Southern African region. While Zimbabwe has pursued symbolic and assertive activities like land reform and regional peacekeeping with varying results, Zambia has maintained a consistent, quiet diplomacy approach based on its backing from the liberation period, according to the studies interrogated. Although South Africa has pushed for institutional and economic unification through its post-apartheid influence, it still has an inconsistent foreign policy and regional engagement. Findings indicate that the three states have taken a variety of noteworthy but inconsistent actions, underscoring the need for further collaboration, strategic goal alignment, and further research into the long-term effects of their regional roles. This study argues that national priorities must be in line with common African objectives for regional integration to be successful.
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