Siseko Maposa
My initial indifference to former Miss South Africa contestant Chidimma Adetshina’s case was short lived, as the fervent discussions and debates that ensued caught my attention and sparked my curiosity.
This prompted me to engage in some careful introspection about the broader implications for South Africa and its people.
Rather than reiterating the familiar facts of the Adetshina case, I endeavour to offer a more reflective analysis, teasing out the potential significance of this incident for South Africa’s collective identity, institutional frameworks and social cohesion.
Firstly, the Adetshina incident and the ensuing debate have highlighted that South Africa continues to wrestle with complex and contentious issues, including identity, nationalism, ethnicity and Afrocentrism – often uncomfortably so.
While most of the discussion focused on seeking justice and clarifying Adetshina’s nationality, there were disturbing undercurrents of racial slurs and deplorable attitudes towards foreign nationals. These sentiments demand our unequivocal disapproval and condemnation.
Furthermore, the long-standing rivalry between Nigeria and South Africa – two nations often regarded as Africa’s giants, competing in various spheres such as music, culture, sports, economy, politics, and even intellect and beauty – undoubtedly fuelled the tensions.
The rivalry serves as a poignant reminder of the multifaceted and often conflict-ridden nature of our continent’s social ecosystem.
Nevertheless, I firmly believe that the Adetshina case served as a valuable catalyst for social debate, offering a unique lens through which to examine the intricacies of South Africa’s social fabric.
The significant influx of undocumented foreign nationals living in South Africa and occupying various spaces has undoubtedly shaped the perspectives of South Africans towards foreign nationals.
As we strive to build an inclusive and tolerant society, it is crucial that we carefully consider the extent to which South Africans perceive themselves as part of a broader African identity. This introspection is essential in fostering a sense of belonging and unity, and in navigating the complexities of our shared humanity.
Secondly, the Adetshina case exposes the vulnerabilities of South Africa’s immigration system, which appears to be a fragile combination of policies, administration and enforcement susceptible to corruption and criminal exploitation.
The fact that an alleged identity theft and fraud involving Adetshina’s mother impersonating a South African woman to register her daughter as a citizen, went undetected for over two decades is alarming and embarrassing for the nation. This incident ought to serve as a call for the Department of Home Affairs and related law enforcement agencies to conduct a comprehensive review of the immigration system, with the aim of fortifying national institutions, enhancing resilience and upholding the rule of law.
Thirdly, the Adetshina case prompts us to re-examine the role of Miss South Africa in advancing our national interests. As a privately-run institution under the Companies Act No 71 of 2008, Miss South Africa Proprietary Limited operates independently of formal government establishments, yet it serves as a global ambassador for South African women.
Given its symbolic significance, it is imperative that the Miss South Africa organisation collaborates more closely with relevant government agencies, such as Home Affairs, Arts and Culture, law enforcement, and Brand South Africa. This synergy would enable thorough vetting of contestants, rigorous assessment of their eligibility, and alignment with government initiatives to showcase our culture and heritage on national and international platforms.
Lastly, I must commend Minister of Arts and Culture, Gayton Mckenzie, and Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber who, within mere months of assuming their roles, handled this crisis with dexterity.
In a country where slow government responses are often the norm, it was refreshing to see swift action taken. Mckenzie’s statement, issued while he was at the Paris Olympics on official duty, assured the public that he would address the issue upon his return.
Meanwhile, the Department of Home Affairs conducted a thorough investigation, including site visits and archival research, to uncover the truth.
Their findings provided prima facie evidence of identity theft and fraud committed by Adetshina’s mother. The ministers’ responsive approach helped alleviate concerns and prevented a potentially xenophobic narrative from taking hold. This demonstration of effective governance is a welcome exception to the norm, and deserves recognition.
The Adetshina case offers valuable insights into South Africa and its people. It is essential to direct our attention away from the young woman, who may have been unaware of the complexities surrounding her nationality.
Instead, we should focus on the critical issues at hand. This includes engaging in ongoing introspection about our social fabric and rigorously assessing the resilience of our institutions. By doing so, we can ensure that the rights of citizens and foreign nationals are safeguarded and protected.
* Maposa is a political economist and Director of Surgetower Associates, a management consultancy specialising in corporate, government and foreign affairs.
Cape Times