South Africa has made history by becoming the first African nation to take the presidency of the G20, as President Cyril Ramaphosa officially took over the leadership on Tuesday. Addressing the summit in Rio de Janeiro, Ramaphosa expressed pride in accepting the role, which formally begins on December 1, and laid out his country’s priorities for the year ahead.
In his speech, Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa’s focus on promoting inclusive economic growth, sustainable development, and tackling global inequality. He stated that the theme for South Africa’s G20 presidency would centre on ‘solidarity, equality, and sustainability.’ Ramaphosa called for global solidarity in addressing crises, whether it be the ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Sudan, or Ukraine, or the challenges faced by countries vulnerable to pandemics and health emergencies.
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The South African president also emphasised the importance of advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and pledged to place greater attention on the needs of Africa and the Global South.
In a significant step for Africa, the African Union was granted permanent membership of the G20 at last year’s summit in New Delhi, a move that Ramaphosa believes will ensure the continent’s priorities are given more prominence on the global stage.
South Africa’s presidency represents a momentous opportunity for the country to influence the global agenda, particularly in terms of development, equality, and public health.
