Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
29 August 2023 | 12:00pm SAST
2-min read

Picture: Radio Islam International

During this week’s Africa Report on Radio Islam International, Dr Emmanuel Matambo, Research Director of the Centre for Africa-China Studies (CACS) shared insights about the recent 15th BRICS Summit held from August 22nd to 24th, 2023, in Sandton.

Over the past 15 years, the BRICS bloc, initially composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has invited Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE to join its tanks. Amidst debates on the group’s purpose – whether it is a counter to the G7 or an independent entity – Dr Matambo spoke about the summit’s major takeaways and its resonance in global affairs.

The summit proved to be transformative. Despite the absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin, the event unfolded with significance. Addressing the applications of over 20 countries aspiring to join BRICS underscored the alliance’s relevance, with outcomes disclosed on the summit’s concluding day.

Dr Matambo underscored the broader potential for Africa through closer association with BRICS. Beyond economic considerations, he highlighted BRICS as the successor to the spirit of solidarity kindled in the 1955 Bandung Conference. This alliance could enable Africa to gain attention and recognition for its unique socio-economic context. Drawing inspiration from China’s approach of adapting global economic principles to national conditions, Dr Matambo posited that Africa could similarly tailor systems to address its specific needs.

“Today we are faced with unique circumstances, and we have to tailor the global economic system to fit those unique circumstances.”

In the political realm, BRICS could elevate Africa’s voice on the global stage. Dr Matambo noted that China and Russia’s support for reforming the United Nations Security Council aligned with Africa’s longstanding quest for greater recognition. Furthermore, the BRICS nations could offer valuable lessons to Africa in effectively utilising resources for manufacturing, as seen in China and India’s success stories.

The inclusion of Egypt and Ethiopia as invitees to join BRICS was discussed. Egypt’s historical role as a mediator in Middle Eastern politics and its status as a populous Arabic nation with membership in the New Development Bank were highlighted as pivotal qualifications. Ethiopia, being the hub of African politics and the headquarters of the African Union, emerged as a strong contender for closer ties with BRICS.

Dr Matambo elucidated the rationale behind these choices, emphasising Egypt’s strategic positioning in the Middle East and its extensive diplomatic history. Ethiopia’s role as a symbol of African unity, its rich history, and its uncolonised status rendered it a key player for deeper BRICS engagement.

Listen to the Africa Report on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Junaid Kharsany.