South Africa: South Africa Turns to Diplomacy to Recover R900m National Airline Debt From Zimbabwe

The South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) is actively involved in negotiations with Zimbabwean officials to recover over R900 million in debt owed to the national airline, South African Airways (SAA). This issue has been a concern for MPs in the Standing Committee on Appropriations, who sought clarification on the exact amounts owed and repayment plans during a recent session.

However, no figures were disclosed during the open meeting, as discussions proceeded in private. In April, it was reported that SAA's financial stability was threatened by these substantial debts owed to foreign entities, with Zimbabwe owing more than R900 million in unpaid ticket sales. Additionally, DIRCO faces challenges in recovering toll revenues from the Beitbridge border, and South African mining companies are struggling to repatriate their funds.

DIRCO Chief Director Nyameka Goso explained that forcing countries to comply with repayment decisions is difficult, especially when those decisions involve significant changes in their internal policies. Standing Committee Chairperson Mmusi Maimane expressed skepticism about the likelihood of repaying the debts and questioned the continued diplomatic relations with countries that do not uphold democratic principles.

The department emphasized that it could only act as a facilitator, relying on affected departments to determine the appropriate course of action. The committee's meeting concluded without media coverage, leaving the outcome of these diplomatic efforts uncertain.