Foreign Secretary David Lammy makes historic trip to Nigeria and South Africa, first by a UK Foreign Secretary since 2013. He seeks to redefine UK-Africa partnerships through growth-centric approach, prioritizing local needs and aspirations.
UK’s Evolving African Engagement
Africa’s economic potential is rising, with the continent projected to make up a quarter of the global population by 2050. Recognizing this, Lammy’s visit signals a significant shift in the UK’s strategy, centering around mutual respect and meaningful collaboration.
According to Lammy, the UK’s fresh approach seeks “long-term growth rather than short-term solutions,” a vision that aligns with Africa’s ambitions for sustainable development.
“Our new approach will deliver respectful partnerships that listen rather than tell,” Lammy remarked, emphasizing his commitment to genuine, lasting relationships.
Strengthening the UK-Nigeria Relationship
Strategic Partnership for Prosperity
During his visit to Nigeria, Lammy will sign a modern Strategic Partnership agreement—the first of its kind between the UK and Nigeria. This agreement encompasses various areas of collaboration, from economic growth and job creation to climate action and national security.
Nigeria, anticipated to become the world’s fifth-largest economy by 2075, is a crucial partner for the UK, offering a vast market and a youthful, dynamic workforce.
In high-level discussions with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and other key leaders, Lammy will explore further avenues for UK-Nigeria trade and investment.
The UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership, signed earlier this year, serves as the central framework for advancing trade and opening new markets, thus fostering prosperity for both nations.
Joint Cooperation |
Objective |
UK Support |
|---|---|---|
| Economic Growth | Create jobs, increase trade | Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership |
| Climate and Environmental Action | Address climate and nature crises | Technical Assistance Package |
| Security and Governance | Strengthen national security systems | Expertise from Bank of England, HMRC |
| Education and Skills Development | Foster workforce skills, focus on women | Skills for Work program |
UK-South Africa Growth Plan
Bolstering Trade and Green Innovation
As the UK’s largest African trading partner, South Africa plays a pivotal role in the UK’s new growth agenda. Lammy’s discussions with South African officials include developing a UK-South Africa Growth Plan, which aims to strengthen market access and boost bilateral trade.
This initiative includes a new Trade Partnership Programme to enhance South African exports, especially agricultural products, which will simultaneously create jobs within South Africa’s rural communities.
Additionally, Lammy will revisit the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to 2030, aligning priorities on trade, energy transition, and security.
The partnership’s renewal is expected to boost South Africa’s agricultural exports and create more employment opportunities, a critical move as the country grapples with high unemployment rates. In 2020, for example, South African exports to the UK supported over 137,000 jobs.
Pioneering Green Growth in Africa
Lammy’s agenda also extends to green growth, echoing his call for climate cooperation and green development in his recent Kew Lecture. South Africa’s Just Energy Transition is one such collaboration where UK expertise is making a tangible impact.
During his visit, Lammy will champion the Earthshot Prize, founded by Prince William, which celebrates climate innovators and supports environmental initiatives across Africa.
In both Nigeria and South Africa, Lammy is expected to discuss expanding the Biodiversity Challenge Fund, an effort to combat illegal wildlife trade, and to offer technical assistance to South Africa’s energy sector. Such initiatives underscore the UK’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable growth.
Building a Foundation for Long-Term Partnerships
Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office & The Rt Hon David Lammy MP.
