By Thapelo Molefe
Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister Buti Manamela has called for a reimagining of state governance and a renewed spirit of solidarity among Global South nations as the world faces overlapping and intensifying global crises.
Speaking during a webinar hosted by the National School of Government on the theme “Governance and Economic Modernisation in the Era of Polycrises”, Manamela drew on global case studies particularly the Chinese model to reflect on South Africa’s own challenges and opportunities.
Referencing Prof. Zhang Weiwei’s presentation on China’s development trajectory, Manamela acknowledged the usefulness of examining models that challenged Western liberal democratic norms.
He highlighted the importance of state capacity not merely as a technical matter but as a “civilisation-defining” one.
“The triggers of the current polycrisis – global tariff wars, Covid-19 and the 2008 financial crisis – require us to rethink the very character of the South African state,” Manamela said.
You’ve reached your free article limit
Subscribe to enjoy unlimited access to trusted journalism. Cancel anytime.
Subscribe nowNeed help? molokom@insidepolitic.co.za
