By Ollus Ndomu
South Africa has officially taken over the presidency of the G20, marking a historic moment as the first African nation to lead the influential group. The transition occurred during the closing session of the G20 summit, where Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva handed over the presidency to his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa.
Lula called for a comprehensive review of the G20’s role, suggesting that all member nations should evaluate the group’s progress and direction.
The summit concluded with a joint declaration addressing pressing global issues, including escalating hunger, the Gaza crisis, and the ongoing war in Ukraine. The document also proposed measures such as a billionaire tax and reforms to the United Nations Security Council.
However, despite broad consensus, Argentina withheld full endorsement, raising objections to specific language within the declaration.
Ramaphosa’s presidency is expected to prioritize the needs of the Global South, with Africa at the forefront. This includes pushing for greater representation in international decision-making, particularly through UN reforms. The African Union’s recent inclusion in the G20 as a permanent member further underscores the continent’s rising diplomatic and economic significance.
The declaration’s call for aid to Gaza and a resolution to the Ukraine conflict highlights the G20’s commitment to global stability, though critics noted the lack of detailed implementation plans. The proposal for a billionaire tax gained traction as a potential funding mechanism for addressing inequalities, though it remains at the discussion stage.
South Africa’s presidency comes at a time when Africa is becoming a focal point for both Western and Eastern powers. The continent’s vast natural resources and strategic importance have spurred competing interests, with the G20 presidency providing a platform for Africa to assert its priorities on the global stage.
Ramaphosa emphasized the need for collective action to address food insecurity, particularly in Africa, where millions face chronic hunger. He also stressed the importance of leveraging Africa’s role in climate change discussions, highlighting the continent’s vulnerability and potential for green energy development.
The handover to South Africa marks a pivotal moment for the G20, with expectations high for the bloc to deliver tangible outcomes under Ramaphosa’s leadership. As global power dynamics shift, Africa’s growing influence within the G20 could reshape the group’s focus and strengthen its connection to the Global South.
South Africa’s leadership is set to begin immediately, with Ramaphosa outlining his administration’s priorities in the coming weeks.
The presidency offers a unique opportunity to redefine Africa’s role in global governance and to champion the continent’s aspirations on the world stage.
