This publication reflects on the achievements of the International Defence and Aid Fund (IDAF) in supporting the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa and the wider region, including Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. It discusses the transition of IDAF's work to South African organisations following the unbanning of IDAF and the release of Nelson Mandela. The document outlines the ongoing need for support, the transfer of archives and resources to South African institutions, and the broader humanitarian objectives of the Fund.

This issue of 'Focus' documents cross-border raids, abductions, and military operations conducted by South African forces in Botswana, Swaziland, and Mozambique during 1986. It includes detailed accounts of incidents involving civilian casualties, abductions of ANC members and foreign nationals, and diplomatic protests by affected governments. The publication also outlines threats against Mozambique and the expulsion demands for ANC members. Supplementary sections describe the objectives and international structure of IDAF, and provide a list of sources and abbreviations.

This issue documents South African destabilisation operations in Southern Africa during 1988-1989, including military attacks, support for insurgent groups (UNITA, MNR), cross-border raids, bombings, assassinations, and other forms of aggression in Angola, Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe. The article references numerous primary sources and provides context on the humanitarian impact, including displacement and refugee crises.