International Relations
German Unification, Africa, and the Future of South Africa-Germany Relations
Kirtan Bhana - TDS

8 October 2024

The fall of the Berlin Wall on November 9, 1989, and the subsequent reunification of Germany on October 3, 1990, marked one of the most significant turning points in modern history. These events not only reshaped Europe but also resonated globally, including in Africa. As Germany reunited and the European Union (EU) was officially formed with the Maastricht Treaty in 1993, the world witnessed a profound transformation. These milestone events were meant to guarantee peace in Europe.

South Africa was undergoing its own historic change, with Nelson Mandela’s release from prison in February 1990, a pivotal moment in the dismantling of apartheid. These parallel transformations set the stage for deepening relations between Germany and South Africa, relations that have since become vital to both nations' futures and to the broader African continent, which is increasingly recognized as a key player on the global stage.

As the Cold War ended, global geopolitics shifted dramatically. Germany’s reunification was a triumph for democracy and symbolized the end of decades of division in Europe. While the reunification primarily focused on integrating East and West Germany, it also prompted Germany to redefine its global role, especially in relation to the Global South. Africa, long marginalized in global discussions, began to emerge as a region of strategic importance. The reunified Germany, with its economic power and role within the EU, became a crucial partner for African countries like South Africa.

At an event on the eve of the Day of Unity Germany's Ambassador to South Africa, Andreas Peschke said, “I am from eastern Germany so if the wall had not come down I would not be here.” He emphasized the significance of Africa saying “we need to strengthen the role of Africa,” calling it “the continent of the future.” This recognition is grounded in Africa’s demographic dynamism, with the continent home to the world’s youngest population. Germany’s relationship with South Africa stands as a model for its broader engagement with the African continent. Peschke said that Germany supports South Africa as it prepares to host the G20 Summit, the first time the summit will be held on African soil. Notable is also the Africa Union’s membership of the bloc.

Germany and South Africa share a commitment to upholding democracy, freedom, and justice, though their journeys have been shaped by different historical challenges. South Africa’s young democracy, which emerged from the ashes of apartheid, finds a strong ally in Germany. The two countries have maintained active diplomatic exchanges and close collaboration on various fronts, from energy and environmental protection to conflict resolution and the rule of law.

Gracing the occasion was German Minister of State Katja Keul, who highlighted the depth of these bilateral relations, particularly in addressing global challenges. “Europe and Africa have common interests and must face current global challenges together,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of peace and security. As the world grapples with ongoing conflicts in regions like Sudan, Gaza, Lebanon, and Ukraine, both Germany and South Africa have called for peaceful solutions and international dialogue. 

Germany’s support for peace and conflict resolution is also deeply rooted in its own history of division and reconciliation. Much like Germany's path to unity after the fall of the Berlin Wall, South Africa’s transition to democracy was guided by a commitment to national reconciliation, spearheaded by Nelson Mandela after his release in 1990. The parallels between the two nations’ experiences of overcoming division through dialogue and justice have fostered a deep sense of mutual respect and cooperation.

Economically, South Africa and Germany enjoy robust relations. South Africa is Germany’s most important trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa, and over 100,000 South Africans are employed by the more than 600 German companies operating in the country. German investments in South Africa span a wide range of sectors, including automotive manufacturing, renewable energy, and telecommunications. Additionally South Africa receives tens of thousands of German tourists and there is a frequent exchange of academics and researchers, said Keul highlighting the solid relations between the two countries. She also pointed out the regular consultations and active diplomatic exchanges between the two countries.

Beyond economics, cultural ties between the two countries have deepened over the years. As Minister Keul noted, the historical connections between South Africa and Germany run deep, dating back to the 18th century when German missionaries and settlers first arrived in the Eastern Cape. “These bilateral relations are also strong at the regional and local level, for example with my German home region Lower Saxony. On Monday, I visited the Eastern Cape province and met the Representative of Lower Saxony to the Eastern Cape, Ms Inger Steffen. Together, we visited the local municipality of Amahlathi whose mayor had just returned from Germany where her delegation met with their sister town of Lamspringe.

“There, I was also welcomed at the Lutheran Church which had been a German church for the settlers for a long time and where my great-grandfather was the reverend for 14 years at the beginning of the 20th century. During my visit to the East London Museum, I learned more about the history of German missionaries and settlers in South Africa and Eastern Cape Province since the early 18th century. The historical connections between South Africa and Germany are much closer than many people think. 

“The various German Christian missions, from the Cape up to Kwa Zulu-Natal province, have left tangible traces: not only churches, but also schools, libraries, and even breweries. Missionaries provided access to health facilities and basic education. But many of them shared western arrogance and espoused racist ideas, working hand in hand with the colonisers. Some also occupied land, and the question of land access remains an important issue to this day,” said 

In an effort to confront this past, Germany has worked closely with South African partners to create exhibitions that reflect the full story of German involvement in South Africa, including the harm caused during the colonial period. Minister Keul’s visit to the East London Museum and her discussions with local communities are part of an ongoing effort to ensure that historical narratives are inclusive and reflective of the true impact of colonialism.

“The cross-border cooperation of museum experts and historians is crucial. Because only if you know your past will you be able to understand the present and build a better future” said the Minister.