South Africa Condemns Morocco’s Exploitation of Western Sahara’s Resources

Alvin Botes, South Africa’s Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation and a senior member of the African National Congress (ANC), accused Morocco of prolonging its occupation of Western Sahara to exploit the region’s vast natural resources. He described the territory as Africa’s last colony, emphasizing that Morocco’s economic interests drive its defiance of international law.

In an article published on South Africa’s National Human Rights Day, Botes highlighted the wealth of Western Sahara’s phosphate reserves and marine resources. He pointed to the Bou Craa mine as a critical asset for Morocco, significantly boosting its global phosphate market share. He also criticized Morocco’s control over Western Sahara’s Atlantic waters, which host lucrative fishing agreements and potential offshore oil and gas reserves. By maintaining its occupation, Morocco expands its exclusive economic zone, profiting from occupied ports like El Aaiún and Dakhla.

Botes reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to supporting the Sahrawi people’s struggle for self-determination, calling Morocco’s actions a continuation of colonial exploitation. He urged the international community to uphold UN General Assembly Resolution 1514, which demands the decolonization of all occupied territories. He stressed that true justice for the Sahrawi people can only come through an internationally recognized referendum on independence.