“Africa’s Call”: Cultural Diplomacy at the Heart of President Ramaphosa’s G20 Vision

28 October 2025 | Bern, Switzerland – President Cyril Ramaphosa’s arrival in Switzerland marks more than a routine state visit, it signals a renewed commitment to cultural diplomacy as a pillar of South Africa’s international relations strategy. Invited by Her Excellency President Karin Keller-Sutter of the Swiss Confederation, President Ramaphosa’s two-day visit will focus on strengthening cooperation in arts, culture, heritage, and peace mediation, alongside discussions around South Africa’s G20 Presidency.

This engagement comes shortly after His Excellency was conferred an honorary Doctorate in International Relations during his state visit to Malaysia, a recognition of his efforts to promote diplomacy rooted in inclusivity, cultural exchange, and sustainable development.

As South Africa steers the G20 agenda under the theme of “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability,” the integration of culture into diplomacy takes centre stage. Among the most innovative expressions of this approach is Africa’s Call, the official G20 song under South Africa’s Presidency, a project that fuses art and international cooperation in a way seldom seen in global policy forums.

Arts and Culture as Instruments of Global Dialogue

The upcoming signing of the Agreement on Cooperation in the Fields of Arts, Culture and Heritage between South Africa and Switzerland underscores a shared belief: that cultural understanding is foundational to peace, mutual respect, and prosperity. The agreement aims to open new pathways for collaboration between artists, heritage institutions, and youth development programs across the two nations.

For President Ramaphosa, this focus is not accidental. In the modern era of diplomacy, the arts have become a soft power tool, a way to express national values, foster intercultural dialogue, and build bridges where politics sometimes falters.

Africa’s Call, which has already gained global attention since its unveiling, exemplifies this strategy. It is not merely a song, it is an anthem of collective identity, a celebration of Africa’s unity in diversity, and a reminder that global cooperation must be rooted in mutual dignity and shared humanity.

A New Form of G20 Engagement

Under South Africa’s leadership, the G20 has sought to move beyond traditional economic discourse, framing development within the context of justice, inclusion, and sustainability. Cultural diplomacy has become a key part of this shift, humanising global policy by weaving in art, music, and storytelling, universal languages that transcend borders.

Africa’s Call serves precisely this role. Through its melody and message, it challenges leaders and citizens alike to envision a world where economic growth aligns with social justice and environmental stewardship. It reminds the global community that diplomacy is not only conducted in boardrooms and summits, but also in songs, classrooms, and cultural exchanges.

Youth, Heritage, and the Future of Cooperation

Later in the week, Presidents Ramaphosa and Keller-Sutter will visit a vocational training institution in eastern Switzerland to explore youth cooperation and skills development. The visit complements the broader vision of empowering young people, not only through economic opportunity but also through creative and cultural expression.

The return of the Nkuna Royal Family artefacts from Switzerland to South Africa during the visit further strengthens this message. It symbolises the restoration of African heritage and the affirmation of identity, essential ingredients in building the self-confidence of a new generation ready to lead Africa’s renaissance.

Towards a More Inclusive Global Conversation

In the context of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, President Ramaphosa’s emphasis on arts, culture, and heritage signals a transformative approach to global leadership, one that recognises the value of humanity alongside economics.

Whether Africa’s Call will be discussed during the official meetings in Bern remains to be seen. Yet, its spirit, echoing through choirs, communities, and digital platforms, already embodies the heart of South Africa’s message to the world: that the promise of a diverse, inclusive, progressive, and prosperous Africa is not only achievable but essential for global harmony.

In bridging art and diplomacy, President Ramaphosa is reminding the world that the story of Africa is not just one of struggle and recovery, it is a song of hope, unity, and destiny.