This archive report was first published on 11 September 2019.
On September 6, 2019, The Citizen published an article by Ralph Mathekga, a South African political analyst, criticizing Rwanda's President Paul Kagame for declining an invitation to attend the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Cape Town.
Mathekga's article sparked a heated debate, with many questioning Kagame's decision to absent himself from the forum. However, a closer examination of the facts reveals that Kagame's actions were not only justified but also a testament to his commitment to African values.
At the time, several African countries, including Nigeria, Malawi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and Tanzania, had expressed reservations about attending the WEF due to the xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Kagame's decision to decline the invitation was not taken lightly, and it was not a reflection of his leadership abilities or political maturity.
Instead, Kagame's actions were a deliberate attempt to draw attention to the plight of African nationals who were being targeted in South Africa. By choosing not to attend the forum, Kagame was able to send a powerful message to the international community, highlighting the need for greater solidarity and support for African nations facing similar challenges.
As a leader who has experienced the devastating effects of xenophobia firsthand, Kagame's actions were a testament to his commitment to African values and his refusal to condone such attacks. His decision to absent himself from the forum was a dignified and decent diplomatic act, one that should be celebrated as a triumph of African leadership.
