Women in Leadership - Thandi Moraka

Shaping South Africa's Global Diplomacy and Youth Empowerment

By Jessie Taylor

Deputy Minister Thandi Moraka, the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), has established herself as a key figure in South Africa’s diplomatic efforts. Her leadership is marked by a strong commitment to fostering international partnerships, advocating for youth empowerment, and promoting South Africa’s global agenda.

Strengthening Bilateral and Multilateral Relations

As Deputy Minister, Deputy Minister Moraka plays a crucial role in shaping South Africa’s diplomatic engagements. She advocates for stronger trade relations, enhanced political cooperation, and sustainable development initiatives with international partners. Her work aligns with South Africa’s broader foreign policy objectives, including peace building efforts, economic diplomacy, and regional integration.

Deputy Minister Moraka’s leadership extends to multilateral platforms where she represents South Africa’s stance on key global issues. She actively participates in discussions on climate change, economic development, and conflict resolution, ensuring that South Africa’s voice is heard on the international stage. Her advocacy for Africa’s development is particularly noteworthy, as she pushes for stronger collaboration within the African Union and other global institutions.

Under her tenure, DIRCO has reinforced its diplomatic missions to enhance trade and investment opportunities for South Africa. Deputy Minister Moraka has played an instrumental role in strengthening bilateral ties with key partners across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Her diplomatic engagements focus on fostering sustainable economic partnerships, advocating for fair trade agreements, and encouraging foreign investment in South Africa. She believes that diplomacy should not only focus on political relations but also serve as a tool for economic growth and job creation.

As part of South Africa’s foreign policy framework, Deputy Minister Moraka has been a strong advocate for South-South cooperation. She promotes collaborations with other developing nations to address common challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. Her work within BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) highlights the importance of emerging economies working together to reshape the global economic landscape.

Deputy Minister Moraka has also emphasised the need for reform in international institutions, advocating for greater representation of African nations in global decision-making bodies such as the United Nations Security Council. She remains committed to ensuring that South Africa continues to play a leadership role in international forums that shape global governance.

Empowering Women and Youth in Diplomacy

A key aspect of Deputy Minister Moraka’s vision is the empowerment of women and youth in international relations. She consistently champions gender equality and inclusivity within diplomatic circles. Her efforts include initiatives to increase female representation in foreign affairs and create mentorship opportunities for young professionals interested in global governance.

By engaging directly with students and young leaders, Deputy Minister Moraka aims to cultivate a new generation of diplomats who can navigate the complexities of international relations. She stresses the importance of education, skills development, and leadership training in equipping young South Africans to contribute effectively to global affairs. She spearheads a community outreach programme aimed at engaging with young South Africans on critical global issues. The initiative aimed to bridge the gap between international diplomacy and local communities by fostering awareness of South Africa’s foreign policy and its implications for the youth.

The outreach programme underscores the government’s commitment to making diplomacy accessible and relevant to all South Africans, particularly young people seeking global opportunities.

Deputy Minister Moraka has emphasised the significance of international cooperation in addressing socio-economic challenges. She urges youth to leverage educational and economic opportunities available through international partnerships facilitated by DIRCO.

Deputy Minister Thandi Moraka is a dynamic leader whose influence extends beyond South Africa’s borders. Through her diplomatic engagements, community outreach, and advocacy for youth and women’s empowerment, she is shaping a more inclusive and globally competitive South Africa. Her commitment to international cooperation and sustainable development ensures that the country remains a key player on the world stage, fostering relationships that benefit both South Africans and the broader global community.

The Work of The Department Of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)

DIRCO is responsible for advancing South Africa’s foreign policy and promoting its interests on the global stage. DIRCO’s primary role is to manage South Africa’s diplomatic relations with other countries, regional organizations, and international bodies. It aims to build strategic partnerships that contribute to peace, security, and sustainable development.

DIRCO is involved in shaping South Africa’s foreign policy, ensuring that it aligns with the country’s national interests, values, and commitments to international law. The department works to strengthen South Africa’s global standing by fostering economic, political, and social relations with other nations.

The department also plays a crucial role in promoting South Africa’s position on key global issues such as climate change, human rights, trade, and conflict resolution. Through DIRCO, South Africa engages in multilateral diplomacy, representing the country in international organisations like the United Nations and the African Union.

Additionally, DIRCO is dedicated to enhancing people-to-people diplomacy by supporting initiatives that promote South African culture, tourism, and educational exchanges. The department also facilitates consular services for South Africans abroad and offers assistance in areas such as visas and international trade.

Source: DIRCO