From Ghana to South Africa, similarities in health, education and social policy programmes have raised questions about how public concerns over foreign nationals shape solidarity across the continent.

This was the focus of a webinar hosted by the School of Government Studies, Political Studies and International Relations at the North-West University (NWU), where Dr Rosina Foli, a senior lecturer in the Political Science Department of the University of Ghana, delivered a lecture titled “Social Policy as Nation Building: The Context of African Politics, Construction of National Identities, and Solidarities”.

Dr Foli said the use of social policy must go beyond addressing poverty and inequality. “Social policy is a collective effort to protect citizens and preserve lives. It is not only about safety nets, but also about redistribution, production, protection, reproduction and social integration.”

She highlighted the historical role of social policy in Africa. “During colonial times, policies were discriminatory and excluded indigenous populations. After independence, nationalist leaders turned to social programmes to reverse that exclusion and to forge unity. However, structural adjustment programmes of the 1980s limited the role of the state, and this weakened social cohesion.”

Dr Foli argued that inclusivity is essential in addressing present-day divisions. “Targeted programmes can create problems of exclusion, while universal policies foster solidarity. Universal education, healthcare and grants remind citizens that they belong to the state and to one another.”

She also connected the discussion to migration and xenophobia. “When services are politicised or uneven, it fuels tensions between groups. Inclusive policies must extend to residents and migrants to prevent divisions.” She further noted that the state that provides services effectively, weakens the bonds of ethnic divisions and exclusion.

Dr Foli expressed appreciation for the academic exchange. “I would like to thank you again for this invitation to share my thoughts on the use of social policy as a tool for nation building. This started as a conversation about collaboration between our departments, and I hope this process deepens with more opportunities in the future.”

She concluded by emphasising dialogue and regional cooperation. “Promoting civic education, regional solidarity and participatory policymaking will help Africans to see themselves as part of a shared community. Social policy is not just about welfare; it is about building nations.”

Dr Rosina Foli from the University of Ghana delivered a lecture on the politics of social policy in Africa.