Lamola urges Africa-wide unity to tackle migration, debt and youth unemployment

South Africa’s Justice Minister Ronald Lamola called for greater African unity and home-grown responses to migration, rising debt and the continent’s youth crisis in a speech at a summit in Addis Ababa. He urged leaders to prioritise job creation for young people and to reject external prescriptions that do not fit local realities.

Unity and African-led solutions

Speaking at the summit, Lamola argued that African countries must work together to find solutions to the challenges facing the continent. He warned against accepting outside prescriptions for Africa’s problems and stressed the importance of approaches shaped by local circumstances.

Migration and youth employment

Lamola linked irregular migration to unemployment and a lack of opportunities for young people, saying that creating jobs should be a priority for leaders seeking to reduce migration and instability.

Debt and calls for reform

The minister welcomed efforts to reform international financial systems to offer more favourable conditions for African countries dealing with debt. He also called for debt relief measures where necessary to help states manage their financial burdens.

Investment in education and skills

Lamola highlighted regional cooperation and investment in education and skills development as key elements in addressing the youth crisis and stemming migration, noting these areas as central to long-term solutions.

Political will and solidarity

He concluded by urging African leaders to demonstrate political will and solidarity to implement policies that will benefit future generations across the continent.