Home Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma. (SABC)
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South Africa is confident its candidate will get the nod for the post of African Union (AU) Commissioner. Home Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma is contesting the position. She will square off against incumbent Jean Ping.
There is a new building for the AU, but many are asking if it will it usher in a new era. The AU is often accused of being slow to respond to crises on the continent, the recent famine in Somalia a case in point. The rift between the AU and Western powers is widening.
Africa believes in mutual economic co-operation and does not want to be exploited for its vast resources. These are some of the difficult challenges which will confront the new AU commissioner. Dlamini-Zuma believes she's equal to the task.
"I have shown that I can run an organisation and departments, and I have what it takes. Yes, it will be very significant that I am a woman, but I will be there as a human being of this big continent," says Dlamini-Zuma.
The feedback we are getting is that SA and SADC have a very positive edge
Dlamini-Zuma faces stiff opposition from the incumbent Jean Ping - but South Africa is upbeat. " We are smiling because our campaign focused on the enhancement of the African agenda and capacity. The feedback we are getting is that SA and SADC have a very positive edge, we are truly humbled. It’s even better after our arrival here," highlighted International Relations Minister, Maite Nkoana Mashabane.
Ethiopia, the only African country never to be colonised, will see leaders try to find African-inspired solutions. Developments in Libya, Egypt and Tunisia will also be on the table. The summit will also see Sudan and South Sudan leaders meet. Former President Thabo Mbeki chairs the AU high level panel.
The AU is understood to be shedding its old skin. Dlamini-Zuma is the only Minister to have served under all four presidents since 1994. An outspoken advocate of gender and human rights, she has the political credentials to panel beat the continental body.
