Addis Ababa: South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC) and Rwanda’s Patriotic Front (RPF) have reiterated their unwavering solidarity with Ethiopia, applauding the country’s strides in nation-building and economic transformation. Representatives from both parties conveyed a message of support during the second congress of Ethiopia’s ruling Prosperity Party (PP).
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Noxolo Kiviet, a member of the ANC’s National Executive Committee, emphasized the shared struggles and successes between South Africa and Ethiopia. “We celebrate the remarkable progress made by the Ethiopian government in nation-building, economic transformation, and the pursuit of peace,” Kiviet said. “Your successes are Africa’s successes, and your challenges are Africa’s challenges.” She also highlighted South Africa’s forthcoming G20 presidency, noting that it aims to advance the African agenda and the objectives of the Global South, with a focus on solidarity, equality, and sustainability.
Wellars Gasamagera, Secretary-General of Rwanda’s RPF, echoed this sentiment, praising Ethiopia’s leadership and achievements under the Prosperity Party. He highlighted the vital roles Rwanda and Ethiopia play in fostering political engagement between their nations and their shared vision for a prosperous Africa serving the interests of its people, a vision consistently upheld at the multilateral level. Gasamagera also noted Ethiopia’s remarkable progress, particularly under the Prosperity Party’s leadership, positioning the country as a model of advancement and affirmed the strong bilateral ties between Rwanda and Ethiopia, crediting the “tireless engagement and dedication of both leaders, who share a people-centered vision.”
Reflecting on the Rwandan genocide, where over a million lives were lost in just 100 days, Gasamagera expressed enduring gratitude for Ethiopia’s support during that tragedy. “We shall always remember with gratitude how Ethiopia stood by us and shared in our grief,” he stated. “We remain steadfast in confronting adversity, ensuring the safety and security of our people, and drawing strength from your demonstrated unshakable courage and determination.”
Gasamagera emphasized that the strong relationship and friendship between the two parties are built on mutual trust and shared interests, growing stronger over time. “We have learned from each other that we must have the courage to boldly change what needs to be changed,” he remarked. He concluded by expressing the Rwanda Patriotic Front’s appreciation for the trust shown by its political allies, stating, “We believe that our ongoing cooperation will pave the way for the development and prosperity of our two peoples.”
