"It will take Africans to unite Africa" – Dr. Mandlakayise Hlophe

Dr. Mandlakayise Hlophe, Deputy President of the newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe Party, has declared that the unification and progress of the African continent lies solely in the hands of Africans.

Speaking on behalf of Former South African President, Jacob Zuma during a courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Dr. Hlophe emphasized that external forces, particularly from the West, have historically worked against a united Africa and have no genuine interest in its integration.

“Africa was divided by the whites. The whites have no interest in having Africa united. It will take the Africans — and nobody else — to unite Africa and ensure we are respected,” Dr. Hlophe stated.

He lamented the continued economic dependency of African countries on the West, especially through systems such as the global reliance on the US dollar, and called for the continent to harness its own resources for the benefit of its people.

“Our minerals, gold, coffee, and other resources must first and foremost serve Africans,” he stressed.

Dr. Hlophe further underscored the importance of preserving African culture, respecting traditional leadership, and revitalizing inter-African trade, integration, and cooperation.

On his part, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse commended Ex. Pres. Jacob Zuma for his enduring legacy in the fight for African dignity and unity.

The Ga Mantse described President Zuma’s visit as a symbol of renewed pan-African solidarity and a reminder of the continent’s shared destiny.

“It is a true honor to receive you in Accra,” he said.

“This meeting is not just between leaders, but it is Africa reminding itself of its strength and shared destiny.”

Reflecting on their earlier meeting, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II emphasized the importance of African nations coming together socio-economically to define their own path.

"Africa is the mother of the world,” he stated, adding that the continent must reclaim ownership of its narrative.

“We must tell our story one more time because the narrative has changed,” the Ga Mantse said.

“We now have more voices speaking of our history and aspirations. It is about time we told our own story.”

Praising Jacob Zuma’s legacy, he noted, “You are known as a leader who stood firm for your people and for the dignity of our continent. That legacy resonates far beyond South Africa.”

He also spoke on the vital role of culture in Africa’s development. “For us in the United States”—referring to the Ga State—“we believe that culture must walk side by side with economic independence. Our culture is our destiny, our dignity, and our wealth.”

The Ga Mantse reminded President Zuma that he was not just a guest but part of the Ga family.

"Among the Ga people, you are family. To me, you are a big brother. And forever, you will be so.”

The visit ended on a light-hearted note as King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II invited Zuma to try a local staple, saying with a smile,

“The last time, I don’t know, you tried something alone. But maybe today you must try something because that is our staple food… In Ghana, we say konnika kena—you should remember that.”

The Ga Mantse expressed hope that Zuma’s visit would further deepen the bonds of friendship between Ghana and South Africa and serve as a reminder that true leadership is rooted in selflessness, courage, and vision.

Former President Zuma is expected to deliver a public lecture on Africa’s economic future and the significance of the BRICS alliance.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith