Best of 2024: The Economist on Ronald Lamola – Cyril’s heir apparent and SA’s diplomatic game-changer

The Economist examines Lamola’s rising profile and his potential to lead the ANC

Published on:

25 Dec 2024, 7:00 am

As South Africa navigates a new political era under its Government of National Unity, President Cyril Ramaphosa's choice of Ronald Lamola as foreign minister hints at a bold generational shift. In two incisive articles, The Economist examines Lamola's rising profile, his role in reshaping foreign relations, and his potential to lead the ANC—and the nation—into the 2030s. With charm and pragmatism, Lamola's approach may temper tensions with the West while keeping key alliances intact. Revisit these deep dives into South Africa's political future, where diplomacy meets ambition.

Sign up for your early morning brew of the BizNews Insider to keep you up to speed with the content that matters. The newsletter will land in your inbox at 5:30am weekdays. Register here.

The seventh BizNews Conference, BNC#7, is to be held in Hermanus from March 11 to 13, 2025. The 2025 BizNews Conference is designed to provide an excellent opportunity for members of the BizNews community to interact directly with the keynote speakers, old (and new) friends from previous BNC events – and to interact with members of the BizNews team. Register for BNC#7 here.

From The Economist, published under licence. The original article can be found on www.economist.com