African peace mission has given continent a voice, says analyst
This past weekend's African peace mission to Russia and Ukraine has given the continent a voice in one of the most significant issues currently facing the world.
That's the view of political analyst Dr Imraan Buccus.
The delegation comprised several African heads of state, including President Cyril Ramaphosa.
It met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday before travelling to Russia for talks with Vladimir Putin.
In his weekly newsletter, Ramaphosa hailed the mission as "historic".
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But Buccus says it's going to take more than one visit to bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
"The fact that African voices are being heard is critically important and should be taken seriously. The extent at which we would gain anything from the visit is left to be seen.
"But I think the very fact that African heads of state mission made the trip and had its voice heard is, in terms of international relations, fundamentally important."
Since Russia invaded Ukraine over a year ago, Africa has suffered rising costs, particularly grain prices.
