Contributions of OAU to the fight against Apartheid rule in South Africa

The Organization of African Unity (OAU) played a significant role in the fight against apartheid in South Africa. Here are some key contributions:

1. Support for Liberation Movements:

• Coordinating Committee for the Liberation of Africa: Established in 1963, this committee provided diplomatic, financial, and logistical support to liberation movements in South Africa, Namibia, Angola, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Guinea-Bissau.

2. International Advocacy:

• United Nations and International Court of Justice: The OAU took action against apartheid regimes at the International Court of Justice and the United Nations, leading to global support and the eventual dismantling of apartheid.

3. Economic Sanctions:

• Trade Embargo: OAU member states imposed economic sanctions on South Africa, cutting off trade links to cripple its economy.
• Diplomatic Isolation: Member states also severed diplomatic ties with South Africa.

4. Political and Military Support:

• Training Grounds: OAU member states provided training grounds for ANC guerrillas in Tanzania, Angola, and Mozambique.
• Political Asylum: Member states offered political asylum to South African political fugitives.

5. Condemnation of Brutality:

• Resolutions against Apartheid: The OAU passed numerous resolutions condemning apartheid policies, including the Sharpeville massacre, the Rivonia Trial, and the Soweto massacres.
• Calls for Release of Political Prisoners: The OAU demanded the release of political prisoners, which eventually led to the release of Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid leaders.

6. Educational Support:

• Quality Education: The OAU provided South African students with quality education within member states, helping to produce a body of elites who joined the diplomatic and military struggle against apartheid.

7. Mobilization of International Support:

• Protests and Campaigns: The OAU mobilized member states to protest against apartheid policies and actions, such as the 1974 tour of South Africa by the British Rugby team.

These efforts collectively contributed to the international pressure that eventually led to the end of apartheid and the establishment of a democratic South Africa.

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Dr. Bbosa Science