South Africa Takes the Helm: President Ramaphosa to Launch Historic G20 Presidency

28 November 2024

South Africa is poised to take on a pivotal role in global governance as President Cyril Ramaphosa prepares to launch the country’s G20 Presidency. This historic milestone marks the first time an African economy will lead the influential Group of Twenty (G20), a forum representing the world’s largest economies.

President Ramaphosa will address the media on Monday, 02 December 2024, to outline South Africa’s agenda and priorities for its one-year tenure. The announcement follows the official handover of the G20 Presidency at the recently concluded G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

South Africa’s Presidency, scheduled for 2025, comes at a time when the world faces pressing economic, environmental, and social challenges. President Ramaphosa emphasized the country’s commitment to championing a more equitable and inclusive global order, aligned with the United Nations’ multilateral frameworks.

The G20, established in 1999, serves as a critical platform for international economic cooperation. Its members include major global economies that collectively account for more than 80% of the world’s GDP, 75% of international trade, and two-thirds of the global population.

During its presidency, South Africa aims to drive discussions on reforming international financial systems, promoting sustainable development, and amplifying the voices of emerging and developing economies. The country’s leadership will also spotlight Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities on the global stage.

As the G20 Presidency rotates annually, South Africa will take over from Brazil and pass the baton to the United States at the conclusion of its term.

President Ramaphosa’s briefing is expected to provide insight into South Africa’s vision for fostering global partnerships and tackling urgent global issues, reaffirming the country’s role as a leader in multilateral diplomacy.