South Africa assumes the G20 presidency for the first time, marking a historic milestone for an African nation. This presidency will be used to place Africa’s priorities firmly on the global economic forum’s agenda.
South Africa will take over the presidency of the group of the world’s largest economies on December 1, host the summit next November, and then hand over the leadership to the United States.
During the opening briefing, Ramaphosa declared this “a great moment for our continent and for the developing world, known as the Global South.”
“We will use this opportunity to more strongly integrate the development priorities of Africa and the Global South into the G20 agenda,” he said.
An African flavor
South Africa wants its presidency to carry a “distinct African flavor,” focusing on development issues and highlighting the continent’s perspectives.
The G20 members (19 countries and two regional organizations, the African Union and the European Union) account for 85% of global GDP and three-quarters of global trade.
Ramaphosa noted that until the African Union joined in 2023, South Africa had been “the sole African voice” in the G20 for a long time.
“We need the inclusion of more African countries, particularly other major economies like Nigeria, to amplify the voice of a continent often overlooked,” he added.
African presence
“We have a voice, a presence, and we will be the largest growth story of the coming decades. Our population is growing rapidly, and as a continent, we will make a lot of noise.
“That noise must be recognized in platforms like the G20,” he said.
South Africa’s priorities for its presidency include strengthening resilience to climate change-related disasters, financing the transition to greener energy, and addressing the unsustainable debt levels of low-income countries, primarily in Africa.
“We will use this G20 to advocate for the use of critical minerals as a driver of growth and development for our continent, which is rich in these resources,” Ramaphosa stated.
What’s next?
Special task forces will focus on inclusive growth, reducing inequality, ensuring food security, and promoting sustainable development.
South Africa will be the last developing country to hold the G20 presidency before the United States, under Donald Trump’s leadership, takes over.
Asked if he had concerns about the transfer of leadership to Trump’s administration, Ramaphosa responded: “I believe there are sufficient buffers to ensure the G20 continues to function in the interest of the world.”
