In a landmark event that took place at Unisa from 16 to 20 September 2024, a diverse group of activists, scholars, diplomats and grassroots organisations gathered to engage in the Interregional Exchange of Experiences on Traditional Knowledge between Colombia and South Africa.

The exchange aimed to foster deeper collaboration and understanding between these two nations, highlighting shared efforts in biodiversity protection, climate change adaptation and social justice, particularly for Afro-descendant and indigenous communities.

The conference, organised in collaboration with the Embassy of Colombia, shines a spotlight on the shared histories and common struggles faced by people of African descent in both regions. Afro-Colombians, descendants of enslaved Africans brought to Colombia during the colonial era, have long grappled with the lingering impacts of slavery and systemic marginalisation.

From left: Dr Maureen Tong, Director, Special Projects in the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor; Prof Solomon Magano, Acting Vice-Principal: Institutional Development; and María del Rosario Mina Rojas, Ambassador of Colombia

"The purpose of this event," Dr Maureen Tong, Director: Special Projects in the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor, explained, "is to create a dialogue between South Africans, including Namibia, Swaziland, and other countries in the SADC region to talk about issues that are of common interest between Afro-Colombians, because these are former African slaves that were taken to Colombia during the slave trade and the colonial periods. They face very, very serious socio-economic problems, which are a legacy of slavery and colonialism. They have, however, set up a coalition of several organisations, they stay true to their nature as people who come from the continent of Africa, they espouse to the principle of Ubuntu."

She continued: "This coalition they have formed in Colombia seeks to create a platform for collaboration, creating synergies and working together towards achieving the objectives of uplifting the socio-economic conditions of people of African descent living in Colombia."

She further elaborated that the event is about more than just South Africa and Colombia. "It's about creating collaborative partnerships that are good for the whole of humankind, and positioning Unisa as a thought leader in international relations and global problem-solving," she said.

The dialogue opened with reflections on the shared history of Afro-Colombians and South Africans. Both communities carry the legacies of colonialism and slavery, a painful past that continues to shape their present realities. In his welcome remarks, Acting Vice-Principal: Institutional Development, Prof Solomon Magano, emphasised the connections between the struggles of Afro-Colombians, descended from enslaved Africans, and the experiences of black South Africans under apartheid.

Building a shared narrative

Over three days, participants engaged in a series of dialogues focused on various themes, including ethnic-racial justice, youth activism and the role of women in environmental conservation. The event began with a powerful session led by the Pacífico Task Force, highlighting efforts in Colombia to promote ethnic-racial, gender and environmental justice for Afro-descendant communities along the Pacific coast.

Lizeth Sinisterra OSA, Executive Director of the Pacífico Task Force, emphasised the importance of intersectional approaches that empower marginalised voices. Her insights, alongside contributions from other Colombian leaders, set a collaborative tone for the discussions that followed.

Asked how people can achieve ethnic racial justice, what the biggest threats to biodiversity and climate change are, and what the structural mechanisms that perpetuate those inequalities are, Ambassador of Colombia, María del Rosario Mina Rojas, said achieving racial justice starts with recognising systemic racism's global impact, including in Colombia and South Africa.

"Those not directly affected," said Rojas, "must take responsibility to confront racism, supported by comprehensive policies that address environmental justice and economic opportunity. Understanding the intersectionality of these issues is vital, as marginalised communities often suffer the most from environmental degradation. Empowering these communities to advocate for their rights is crucial for driving meaningful change and creating a more equitable society for all."

Rojas continued: "We face a critical challenge in respecting all forms of life, as every species has intrinsic value that must be recognised and protected. This principle extends from our daily actions to larger policies, especially considering the upcoming Convention on Biodiversity (COP16) in Cali. Governments must take previous commitments seriously to address environmental threats such as climate change, resource scarcity, and health issues. Additionally, factors like militarisation and violence also impact the environment. Addressing these multifaceted threats requires collective action and informed discussions to safeguard biodiversity and ensure a sustainable future."

A pivotal session on land tenure and governance centred on sustainable rights to a healthy environment, featuring presentations on legal and policy protections for cross-border movements in the context of climate change. Participants reviewed a draft declaration for COP16, reflecting a commitment to unity in addressing environmental challenges across borders.

Prof Mpfariseni Budeli-Nemakonde, Executive Dean of Unisa’s College of Law, said the role of law in the discussion on the interregional exchange of experiences on traditional knowledge between Colombia and South Africa cannot be overstated. She continued: "This exchange can help both Colombia and South Africa navigate the complexities of intellectual property rights and the protection of indigenous knowledge systems, as both nations are biodiversity-rich and home to diverse indigenous populations whose knowledge significantly contributes to sustainable development. Therefore, this exchange is not merely academic exercise but a critical opportunity to strengthen legal frameworks that protect the rights of indigenous communities in both countries. Legal structures ensure that traditional knowledge is used ethically and that the rights of indigenous people are safeguarded, fostering a fair and sustainable approach to the use and preservation of valuable knowledge."

Prof Mpfariseni Budeli-Nemakonde, Executive Dean: College of Law

As the dialogue concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of unity and purpose. The event served as a reminder of the power of collective action in confronting shared challenges. By fostering connections between the two cultures, the dialogue laid the groundwork for joint initiatives that prioritise the rights and well-being of marginalised communities.

The collaboration between Unisa and the Colombian Embassy was a significant milestone, enriching both societies and deepening the understanding of their intertwined histories. The successful exchange of ideas and experiences promises to strengthen ongoing efforts toward social justice and environmental protection, paving the way for a more sustainable future.  

* By Rememberance Manganyi, Journalist Intern, Department of Institutional Advancement
** Photos by Ian Mabaso and Dineo Khayemba