AngloGold says proud to partner with Thabo Mbeki Foundation to promote development awareness in Africa
Former South African president Thabo Mbeki pours water on a tree he planted at graves of South African heroes in Morogoro to remember the heroes who who died during during struggle against the Apartheid regime
AngloGold Ashanti has expressed pride in its partnership with the Thabo Mbeki Foundation in raising awareness for Africa’s development in order to achieve the continent’s Agenda 2063 through the slogan “Africa We Want.”
Speaking during the visit of the former South African President and a delegation of more than 50 South Africans to Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) in Morogoro Region—where they visited the graves of South African freedom fighters who fought for the country’s independence through the African National Congress (ANC)—Simon Shayo, Vice President of Sustainability (Africa) at AngloGold Ashanti, said they are proud to be part of Africa’s transformational journey.
"AngloGold Ashanti is working with the Thabo Mbeki Foundation on this initiative to raise awareness of Africa’s development because we are a stakeholder in the development of various countries across the continent through the mining sector," said Shayo.
Simon Shayo, Vice President of Sustainability (Africa) at AngloGold Ashanti ( second from right) during a tour of the former South African President Mr Thabo Mbeki in Morogoro where they visited the graves of heroes of South African independence fighters.
"The participation of the private sector in this initiative is not just about business but also about building bridges between ordinary citizens and distinguished leaders to discuss issues concerning the continent, which is why AngloGold Ashanti has decided to be part of this history," he added.
"Through our investments, we directly impact the lives of people, including the youth, and contribute to the development of various countries."
He said the collaboration between AngloGold Ashanti, the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, and the University of South Africa (UNISA) demonstrates a genuine commitment to driving development in various areas, including leadership, to achieve the continent’s stated goals.
"Through our partnership, we hope to see a prosperous Africa for its people and resources, including minerals, to accelerate development and reduce dependence on foreign nations."
"That is why this 15th annual forum has featured various discussions involving leaders such as former President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, to deeply examine issues that will help the continent advance and overcome existing obstacles."
The delegation also included prominent figures such as retired Tanzanian Prime Minister Judge Joseph Sinde Warioba and officials from the South African Embassy.
Thabo Mbeki led the visit to the graves of South African freedom fighters who had been led by former President Nelson Mandela.
He called on African nations to unite in achieving development and honoring the freedom fighters of the continent.
Vusi Maqabela from the Thabo Mbeki Foundation expressed his joy at seeing the graves of his country’s freedom fighters, something he had only learned about in school.
"We are very grateful to the organizers of this forum for helping Africa awaken through its history for the benefit of current generations," said Maqabela.
Professor Anthoni Van Nieuwkerk from UNISA, who specializes in international relations, said this year's forum—hosted in Tanzania jointly by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation and AngloGold Ashanti —reemphasizes the importance of African leaders actively engaging in this agenda.
"What I will remember from this visit is Thabo Mbeki planting a tree at this historic site for South Africa in Morogoro, an act that further strengthens the brotherhood between these nations ( Tanzania and South Africa ) and the importance of African solidarity," he said.
There have been a series of events and discussions leading up to the Africa Day Address, which will culminate in a high-level roundtable organized by AngloGold Ashanti and President Mbeki on *Friday, May 23, followed by the official address on Saturday, May 24 at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC).
