Nkomo back in Cuba to see Castro

The Rhodesia Herald,

December 24, 1977

HAVANA. – One of Rhodesian nationalist leaders, Mr Joshua Nkomo has arrived here on his second visit to Cuba within five months.

There was no information on the purpose of his trip, but observers believed it was certain that he would discuss Mr Ian Smith’s latest attempts to reach a negotiated settlement with nationalist leaders inside Rhodesia. Mr Nkomo’s arrival was announced yesterday by the official newspaper, Granma. It said only that he had come by invitation of the Cuban Communist party.

Mr Nkomo was in Cuba last July for a five-day stay.  He then said Cuba had agreed to supply his movement with all the arms it had available. During that trip Mr Nkomo had lengthy talks with President Fidel Castro, and observers thought it very likely that he would again see the Cuban leader.

Cuba has long backed Rhodesia terrorists.  Its attitude to contacts between the government and black leaders living inside Rhodesia was reflected yesterday in a commentary in the Cuban news agency Prensa Latina. This said that the great powers were trying “to maintain their hegemony in the southern zone of Africa” through the talks.

Any settlement plan was designed to slow down the terrorists and would in fact “do no more than prolong the war”, Prensa Latina added.

Mr Nkomo arrived here with a three-man delegation. – Iana-Reuter.

LESSONS FOR TODAY

Cuba played a significant role in several key conflicts in Angola, South Africa, Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

Cuba’s actions were motivated not only by ideological solidarity but also by a desire to counter US influence on the continent and promote socialism as an alternative model for development.

Dr Nkomo’s visits to Cuba and his meeting with President Fidel Castro were pivotal moments that underscored the international dimensions of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.

Today, Cuba maintains diplomatic relations with several Southern African countries. It continues to advocate for social justice, human rights, and solidarity among developing nations.