With a South African mother and Nigerian father, I am in the fortunate position of being exposed to the best of both countries and cultures. As such, I can clearly envision the benefits of the two nations coming together and working towards shared common goals. South Africa and Nigeria each have rich cultures and a wealth of human talent, skills and resources in their own right. And both can only grow stronger and progress at a faster rate should these diverse nations join together to work towards mutual goals. The aim should be to leverage off each other\u2019s strengths to benefit the African continent as a whole, instead of being threatened or being unduly critical of each other.<\/p>\n
Time For A New Era Of Collaboration & Integration
\nThe time has come to shed the straight-jackets of the past that are restricting forward-focused movement and collaboration of these two influential African countries. It\u2019s long overdue for a major and widespread change of perspective \u2013 where Nigeria and South Africa view each other as African partners within the global community.
\nThis is not merely an aspirational view, but something that can start happening quite quickly and tangibly once both countries are open to driving a new era of collaboration and integration. This will kick off efforts to understanding the different cultural values, skills, assets, economic value and other positive elements by both countries.
\nSome of the ways that these objectives can be practically achieved include the following:
\n\uf0a7 Utilise the existing Binational Commission (comprising members from different age groups, genders, social and cultural backgrounds, regions and viewpoints) to its full potential
\n\uf0a7 Leverage off the strength of African diaspora for knowledge and understanding of the local environments in both Nigeria and South Africa
\n\uf0a7 Build a framework for exchange of key messaging and success stories between the two countries showcasing positive aspects and achievements
\n\uf0a7 Organise inter-cultural exchange programmes, binational roadshows and events that include showcasing the music, food, talent, traditions and cultures of both countries
\n\uf0a7 Establish journalist academies in both Nigeria and South Africa that facilitate skills and knowledge exchanges. For example, by taking a group of journalists from South Africa to Nigeria (and vice versa), and exposing them to business, public and lifestyle sectors
\n\uf0a7 Don\u2019t discriminate on grounds of nationality \u2013 make full use of skilled migrant labour. Company policies may have to be reviewed to be more inclusive
\n\uf0a7 From a government perspective, improve the visa application processes and speed up work permit approvals
\n\uf0a7 Both countries should leverage off each other\u2019s strengths in terms of professional skills, infrastructure, expertise in different sectors and natural resources.
\n\uf0a7 Innovation hubs should be set up (e.g. Nigeria\u2019s Computer Village) and part or all proceeds should be invested in youth and knowledge development initiatives (such as digital skills upliftment projects by Mark Zuckerberg and Google in Nigeria)
\n\uf0a7 Co-ordinate roadshows spotlighting the historic links between Nigeria and South Africa. This will enlighten the inhabitants of each country on the roles played by the other country in shaping their landscape (e.g. highlighting the financial and political support provided by Nigeria to South Africa in the fight against apartheid)
\n\uf0a7 Private sector collaboration (e.g. combining South Africa\u2019s great business infrastructure and Nigeria\u2019s skills optimally for maximum effect).
\nWhile there may be many challenges to overcome, with a united view and joint concerted effort by both countries, this vision is certainly attainable. It comes down to changing perceptions now and starting this progressive journey as soon as possible. The vast opportunities that exist in such a partnership await. And I, for one, simply cannot wait to see what\u2019s in store for Africa in the near future.<\/p>\n
Nonye Mpho Omotola is the Managing Director of Africa Communications Media Group headquartered in Johannesburg. She sits on the Brand Africa counsel and is a respected advocate for economic growth, through innovation, technology and education in Africa.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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