By Nkosana Khumalo
South Africa’s G20 Presidency to Focus on Global South Priorities and Africa’s Developmental Needs
South Africa’s G20 Presidency, set to commence on 1 December 2024, will be firmly centred on advancing the interests of the Global South, with a particular emphasis on Africa, according to International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola. Speaking at the United Nations (UN) during a high-level address to the G20 Troika, Lamola outlined South Africa’s vision for its upcoming presidency, highlighting themes of solidarity, equality, and sustainable development as key priorities.
“This theme speaks to the developmental priorities of the Global South, particularly the African continent, which is now fully represented with the admission of the African Union (AU) into the G20,” Lamola remarked. South Africa’s presidency will follow Brazil’s, which is currently at the helm of the G20. Lamola emphasised that South Africa’s term will build upon the efforts of previous presidencies, including those of Indonesia, India, and Brazil, to drive a more equitable, representative, and fit-for-purpose international order.
Elevating Africa’s Voice on the Global Stage
One of the most significant developments during South Africa’s G20 Presidency will be the integration of the African Union into the G20, marking a historic moment in the representation of the continent on the world stage. This move comes as a recognition of Africa’s growing importance in global discussions on economic development, climate change, and governance reform.
Lamola’s remarks at the UN underscored South Africa’s commitment to using its presidency to ensure that the voices and needs of the developing economies of the Global South, especially those of Africa, remain front and centre. “We intend to ensure that the needs, interests, and aspirations of the Global South drive the G20 agenda forward,” he said.
As part of this agenda, South Africa’s presidency will also focus on fostering stronger partnerships between Global South countries to tackle shared challenges such as debt vulnerability, food insecurity, and climate change.
Key Themes: Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainable Development
The theme of South Africa’s G20 Presidency—solidarity, equality, and sustainable development—reflects the nation’s longstanding commitment to addressing socio-economic inequalities and advancing sustainable growth, particularly in the Global South.
Lamola reiterated that South Africa will work to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while also aligning its G20 agenda with the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Agenda 2063 is a strategic framework aimed at transforming Africa into a global powerhouse by addressing key areas such as infrastructure development, industrialisation, and human capital growth.
“These goals are critical to ensuring that the Global South can tackle transboundary challenges while also securing its developmental future,” Lamola explained. He also highlighted the need to reform global institutions to better serve the interests of developing countries, particularly in the areas of finance, trade, and technology.
Reforming the International Financial Architecture
One of the cornerstones of South Africa’s G20 agenda will be pushing for reforms in the International Financial Architecture (IFA) and the Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs). Lamola noted that these institutions, in their current form, are not adequately equipped to address the unique challenges faced by developing nations.
“This is critical to ensuring that they become fit for purpose to adequately address sustainable development and transboundary challenges,” the Minister said. South Africa will work to build consensus around the need for reforms that allow these institutions to better serve countries facing debt crises, financial instability, and the growing impacts of climate change.
South Africa’s stance aligns with the broader Global South’s calls for fairer financial systems that provide equitable access to financing for sustainable development projects. This will include discussions on debt relief and restructuring for countries that are disproportionately burdened by high levels of external debt.
Addressing Climate Change and Its Impact on Food Security
Climate change will be another priority during South Africa’s G20 Presidency, particularly as it relates to food security in developing countries. Africa, in particular, has been heavily affected by the increasing frequency of droughts, floods, and other climate-related disasters, which have severely impacted agricultural production and food supply chains.
“Climate change has devastating consequences for food security in developing countries,” Lamola said, adding that South Africa’s presidency will push for stronger commitments from G20 members to support adaptation and mitigation efforts in vulnerable regions. This will include promoting investments in renewable energy, sustainable agricultural practices, and innovative technologies that can help countries cope with the impacts of climate change.
Additionally, South Africa will work to address issues of predatory mining, particularly in Africa, where some foreign corporations exploit the continent’s rich natural resources with little regard for environmental sustainability or local development. Lamola mentioned that South Africa plans to carry forward the outcomes of the UN Secretary-General’s Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals to ensure that Africa benefits more equitably from the extraction and processing of its critical minerals.
Promoting Industrialisation, Employment, and Innovation
Lamola also emphasised the need to advance industrialisation and employment in the Global South. During South Africa’s G20 Presidency, there will be a concerted effort to boost industrial capacity, enhance skills development, and create jobs, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, technology, and renewable energy.
“Industrialisation, employment, and inequality are key issues that we will be focusing on,” he said. As part of this, South Africa will advocate for increased investments in the blue economy, which encompasses sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth and job creation. The potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology in driving innovation and economic development will also be a major focus.
By championing these areas, South Africa aims to ensure that G20 discussions lead to tangible outcomes that directly benefit the Global South. This will include creating pathways for young people in developing countries to enter high-growth industries and contribute to the global economy.
Building on Brazil’s Presidency and Multilateralism
As South Africa takes the reins from Brazil in December, Lamola expressed his appreciation for the leadership demonstrated by Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in championing the cause of multilateralism and the reform of global governance institutions.
“We further thank Brazil for its innovative leadership in calling for this G20 meeting and inviting all UN Members,” Lamola said, acknowledging Brazil’s efforts to promote inclusivity within the G20. He added that South Africa would carry forward the momentum started by Brazil in pushing for reforms that make international institutions more representative of the global community, especially in the context of the Global South.
Lamola also commended Brazil’s commitment to addressing current global challenges through collective action and dialogue. He noted that South Africa would seek to maintain the momentum that Brazil has generated, ensuring that the G20 continues to address the urgent needs of developing nations, including those in Africa.
The End of a G20 Cycle and a New Beginning
South Africa’s G20 Presidency will mark the end of the first cycle of G20 Presidencies, which operate on a Troika system. The Troika comprises the past, present, and upcoming G20 presidencies—India, Brazil, and South Africa, respectively. This Global South Troika provides a unique opportunity for developing nations to shape the G20 agenda and influence global policy discussions.
Lamola revealed that South Africa intends to conduct a comprehensive review of the first cycle of G20 Presidencies to ensure that the promises made during these terms are fully implemented. “We intend to undertake a review of the first cycle of G20 Presidencies. This is critical to ensure implementation,” he said, adding that South Africa is committed to maintaining the momentum started by India and Brazil.
This review will focus on assessing the progress made on key issues such as sustainable development, climate action, financial reforms, and food security. The aim is to ensure that G20 commitments translate into real-world outcomes that benefit all member states, especially those in the Global South.
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Support for the G20 Agenda
President Cyril Ramaphosa echoed Minister Lamola’s sentiments during the same high-level meeting, commending Brazil’s presidency for steering the work of the G20 during its term. Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation for Brazil’s leadership and highlighted South Africa’s readiness to take on the role of G20 Chair.
“The excellent way Brazil has steered the work of the G20 during its presidency sets a high standard for South Africa as we prepare to take the mantle,” Ramaphosa said. He also reiterated South Africa’s commitment to promoting the Global South agenda, particularly in the areas of sustainable development, climate change, and debt relief.
Ramaphosa emphasised that South Africa’s presidency would aim to strengthen global partnerships and foster greater solidarity among nations as they work together to address pressing global challenges. He noted that by working collectively, the G20 can continue to be a force for good in advancing peace, security, and prosperity for all.
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