First African G20 Presidency to Focus on Development Priorities and Global Solidarity

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (BG) – President Cyril Ramaphosa officially launched South Africa’s G20 Presidency on Tuesday, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to prioritizing development issues for both the African continent and the Global South.

Speaking during a media briefing at Parliament in Cape Town, Ramaphosa outlined South Africa’s agenda as it assumes the G20 Presidency from Dec. 1, 2024, to Nov. 30, 2025.

The milestone marks the first time an African country will lead the influential global forum, which brings together leaders and policymakers from the world’s major economies.

“Across the world, billions of people are affected by underdevelopment, inequality, poverty, hunger, and unemployment,” Ramaphosa said. “South Africa’s Presidency will be the first time an African country has presided over the G20. We will use this moment to bring the development priorities of the African continent and the Global South more firmly onto the agenda of the G20.”

Theme of Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability

Ramaphosa introduced South Africa’s theme for its presidency: “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability.” He underlined the importance of collective action and partnerships to tackle global challenges, including climate change.

“The G20 has a wide agenda that now includes trade, sustainable development, health, agriculture, energy, the environment, climate change, and anti-corruption,” he said. “South Africa’s G20 Presidency takes place at a moment in which the world is facing severe challenges. The climate change crisis is worsening. Working together with G20 members, and building partnerships across society, South Africa will seek to harness global will and capabilities to confront these challenges.”

Highlighting the importance of solidarity and equality, Ramaphosa added: “Through solidarity, we can create an inclusive future that advances the interests of people at the greatest risk of being left behind. By promoting equality, we strive to ensure fair treatment and equal opportunities for all individuals and nations. We aim to break down divisions of economic status, gender, race, geography, or any other characteristic.”

Leadership at a Crucial Time

South Africa’s leadership of the G20 comes as the world grapples with significant economic and environmental challenges. The symbolic handover ceremony at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro in November 2024 signified a pivotal moment for Africa, marking its growing role in global decision-making.

“This will bring together the leaders of the G20 countries, the African Union, and the European Union,” Ramaphosa said, highlighting the inclusive approach of the upcoming G20 Summit under South Africa’s leadership.

Experts suggest that South Africa’s leadership will amplify Africa’s voice in addressing critical global issues such as economic development, climate change, and peacekeeping. It also provides an opportunity to deepen ties across the Global South, with a focus on enhancing trade, boosting investment, and addressing Africa’s unique challenges.