This book makes an important contribution to an understudied element of South African foreign policy: maritime diplomacy. By situating this policy within a rigorous soft-and-hard power framework, the authors illuminate a dimension of Pretoria's international behavior that has needed further scholarly attention. Empirically grounded and refreshingly candid about South Africa's maritime limitations, as much as its ambitions, this is essential reading for anyone working on maritime issues in Africa.

Lisa Otto, Professor of International Relations, University of South Africa, South Africa

At a time when the maritime dimension of geopolitics is receiving renewed attention, this book by Vhulenda Edna Matshili, Suzanne Graham, and Oluwaseun Tella could hardly be more timely. The authors skillfully and innovatively weave together an analysis of South Africa's power status, its hard and soft power, and its maritime diplomacy. This is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary debates on emerging middle powers, maritime diplomacy, and the changing nature of power in international relations.

Hendrik W. Ohnesorge, Senior Lecturer of Political Science and Managing Director of the Center for Global Studies, University of Bonn, Germany