Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa’s place in the G20, stressing that the country is a founding member and will keep taking part fully, even as incoming US President Donald Trump threatens to bar it from next year’s meetings. In a national address on Sunday evening, Ramaphosa tackled the tensions head-on, calling out false claims of genocide against Afrikaners and land grabs that Trump cited. He urged unity at home and goodwill towards Americans, while celebrating the successes of South Africa’s year-long G20 presidency.
The speech from the Union Buildings in Pretoria wrapped up a busy period after the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, which drew praise for its warm hosting despite Trump’s boycott. Ramaphosa used the moment to thank South Africans for their role in making the event a hit and called for a national dialogue to solve local issues. As the country hands over the G20 reins to the US, his words aim to calm fears and boost pride in SA’s global standing. Amid economic woes like high unemployment, the address ties international wins to home growth, reminding everyone of the power of working together.
Standing Strong Against External Criticism
Ramaphosa directly addressed Trump’s recent comments, where the US leader repeated unproven stories about violence against white farmers and land seizures in South Africa. Trump said these were reasons to keep SA out of G20 talks during his 2026 presidency. But Ramaphosa pushed back firmly yet kindly.
“We must make it clear that South Africa is one of the founding members of the G20 and South Africa is therefore a member of the G20 in its own name and right. We will continue to participate as a full, active and constructive member of the G20,” he said. He called the claims “blatant misinformation” spread by groups inside and outside the country, harming SA’s interests and jobs.
Despite the jab, Ramaphosa kept a hand out for friendship. “Despite the challenges and misunderstandings that have arisen, South Africa remains a firm and unwavering friend of the American people,” he added. He recalled how US solidarity helped end apartheid and how their Bill of Rights inspired SA’s Constitution. This tone shows a wish to keep ties strong, even as handover talks happened through diplomatic channels.
Celebrating G20 Wins and South African Spirit
The president spent much of his talk thanking South Africans for pulling off a top-notch G20 year. From meetings in spots like Gqeberha to Polokwane, the country hosted over 130 events with tens of thousands of guests. “When we launched our G20 Presidency a year ago, I said that this must be the People’s G20,” Ramaphosa recalled, praising how folks from all corners showed warmth and hospitality.
He shared kind words from visitors, like a German delegate saying, “I’ve attended summits on six continents. I’ve never experienced warmth like this,” and a French one noting, “We came to discuss economic frameworks. But what we’ll remember is how your people made us feel. That’s not soft power — that’s real power.” These stories highlight how SA’s people shone, turning the summit into a friendship builder.
Key deals from the Johannesburg Declaration include debt relief for poor countries, more African voices at the IMF with a new board seat, green energy goals via Mission 300, youth jobs through the Nelson Mandela Bay plan, and tech boosts like the AI for Africa Initiative. Ramaphosa said these will help grow SA’s economy and create work, tying global wins to local needs.
Tackling Home Challenges: A Call for National Dialogue
Ramaphosa did not shy from SA’s tough spots, like poverty, joblessness, and high living costs worsened by poor services. He blamed some on global issues like wars and climate change but stressed home fixes. “Here in South Africa, our people are confronted each day with poverty, unemployment and the high cost of living, which are made worse by poor service delivery in many areas,” he said.
To bridge divides, he announced a National Dialogue where all voices – from all races and beliefs – can join. “We have now embarked upon a National Dialogue, where all South Africans – all walks of life, of all races and creeds – are invited to forge a new future for our country,” Ramaphosa explained. He invited those spreading false info to bring their worries there, saying SA problems need SA solutions.
He also touched on gender-based violence, confirming its status as a national disaster to unlock more tools against it. This builds on recent steps like the 16 Days of Activism campaign.
A Year of Progress and Unity
Ramaphosa pointed to green shoots in the economy, like falling joblessness, better public money handling, and a credit rating boost. He quoted business leader Adi Enthoven: “after a decade of decline, South Africa has turned the corner.” Sports wins, like the Springboks, got a nod too, showing how teamwork lifts the nation.
Wrapping up, he thanked security, officials, and everyday people for the G20 success. “We thank you for being patient and we apologise for any difficulties you experienced,” he said, owning up to disruptions like road closures.
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