Since assuming the G20 Presidency, South Africa has confronted doubts about its ability to deliver meaningful outcomes within a G20 strained by geopolitical fragmentation. Leading in a time of war, strategic rivalry and shrinking space for global consensus placed South Africa in a challenging position, requiring it to not only chair the process but also navigate deep divisions within the international system. Nonetheless, under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”, President Cyril Ramaphosa advanced an ambitious, development-oriented agenda. South Africa championed four issues key to Africa’s long-term growth and resilience:
- Strengthening disaster resilience and response;
- Advancing debt sustainability for low-income countries;
- Mobilising finance for a just energy transition; and
- Leveraging critical minerals for inclusive and sustainable development.
These priorities were carried through multiple G20 working groups and three task forces on inclusive growth, food security and AI/data governance. Key deliverables, including the G20@20 Review, the Cost of Capital Review, the Critical Minerals Initiative and the Africa Engagement Framework established with the AU, reflect attempts to institutionalise Africa’s influence despite a difficult geopolitical environment.
The G20 presidency has transitioned to the US and the forum has entered a Global North cycle. A core question emerges: How can Africa sustain momentum and protect the developmental framing advanced under South Africa’s leadership across the G20, Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) follow-up, Conference of the Parties (COP) process and the UN tax negotiations?
