The African Union Commission has welcomed and congratulated South Africa on taking on the chairmanship and hosting duties of the G20 for 2025, marking a historic first as the summit will be held on African soil.
This move underscores the continent’s growing influence in global affairs and sets the stage for pivotal discussions on sustainable development and equality.
The announcement comes as South Africa prepares to lead the Group of Twenty from 1 December 2024 to 30 November 2025, with the leaders’ summit scheduled for 22 to 23 November 2025 at the NASREC Expo Centre in Johannesburg.
Under the theme of Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability, the event will bring together heads of state, governments, and representatives from 19 countries, the European Union, and the African Union, along with major international bodies such as the International Monetary Fund and the International Labour Organization.
This presidency arrives at a crucial time, just five years before the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda deadline, offering a platform to push for reforms that benefit developing nations.
A historic milestone for the Continent
For the first time ever, the G20 Leaders’ Summit will take place in Africa, a development seen as a testament to the continent’s growing voice on the world stage.
The African Union views this as more than just an event; it is a symbol of Africa’s progress and a step towards ensuring that natural resources benefit local people and drive long-term development.
South Africa’s role builds on recent gains for Africa in global forums. The African Union joined the G20 as a full member in 2023, thanks to efforts during previous presidencies, including strong backing from countries like India.
This inclusion means the continent’s 55 nations now have a collective seat at the table, allowing for unified advocacy on issues affecting the Global South.
The summit in Johannesburg is expected to draw global attention to Africa’s potential, with discussions focusing on how to turn challenges into opportunities for inclusive growth.
South Africa’s leadership in global governance
As the current chair, South Africa has shown strong leadership in advancing the interests of developing countries.
The nation is using its position to highlight priorities such as sustainable development, fair economic growth, and better global trade systems. This aligns with the broader goals of creating a more equitable world order.
South Africa’s approach has been praised for its inclusivity. Rather than focusing solely on national gains, the country has involved thousands of Africans from various fields in G20-related activities over recent months.
This has included conferences and discussions where professionals from across the continent contributed ideas, ensuring Africa speaks with one voice.
For instance, media experts from different African nations gathered for sessions on communication and information sharing, adopting resolutions that strengthen collective efforts.
Such steps demonstrate a commitment to shared benefits, making the presidency a win for the entire region.
Emphasising democracy, equality, and human rights
South Africa stands out as a vibrant democracy that upholds equality, human rights, and the rule of law, as outlined in its Constitution and aligned with the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. These values form the foundation of its governance and have been key to its success as a diverse society.
Often called a rainbow nation, South Africa is home to people of many races, cultures, languages, and faiths living together in unity.
This diversity is not just a feature but a strength that fosters national pride and global respect. The African Union’s statement underscores how this inclusivity serves as a model for others, promoting harmony and shared progress.
In leading the G20, South Africa aims to extend these principles globally, advocating for policies that ensure no one is left behind in the push for development.
Encouraging global partnerships and engagement
The African Union has called on international partners to work closely with South Africa and the continent as a whole.
This engagement should be based on mutual respect, truth, and constructive cooperation, supporting Africa’s ongoing contributions to world peace, growth, and prosperity.
This invitation comes amid broader efforts to address pressing global issues. For example, there have been pushes for debt relief to free up resources for development, reforms in how debts are handled, and innovative ideas like swapping debt for investments in climate action or education.
South Africa is also championing initiatives on artificial intelligence tailored for Africa, set to launch later in 2025, to promote inclusive technology use.
Additionally, the presidency has seen various sector-specific meetings, such as those on energy transitions in KwaZulu-Natal, water investment in Cape Town, and creative industries in Durban.
These gatherings aim to secure fair funding for Africa’s booming sectors like film, music, fashion, and digital arts, which are vital for job creation and economic expansion.
Civil society has also been active, with campaigns running until November 2025 to rally Africans and the diaspora around the continent’s agenda.
Trade unions from around the world met in George, Western Cape, to discuss a new social contract focused on solidarity and sustainability.
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