ANC welcomes South Africa’s historic G20 presidency
20 November 2024
The African National Congress (ANC) proudly welcomes the announcement that South Africa, under the leadership Of President Cyril Ramaphosa, will assume the Presidency of the G20 for the year 2025 from the 1st Of December 2024. This historic milestone marks the first time an African nation Will lead this important global forum, providing a platform to champion the development priorities of South Africa. the African continent, and the Global South.
The ANC commends President Ramaphosa for his bold and inclusive vision, encapsulated in the theme Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability. This aligns seamlessly With the ANC's 2024 Manifesto commitments to create jobs, reduce inequality, and drive inclusive economic growth. under this Presidency, South Africa will focus on three critical areas: inclusive economic growth and industrialisation, food security, and innovation through artificial intelligence and sustainable development.
The focus on inclusive economic growth and industrialisation Will bring much-needed investment into key sectors such as manufacturing and infrastructure, creating sustainable jobs and driving transformation in communities. The emphasis On food security will strengthen agriculture, particularly in rural areas, food production and providing opportunities for employment. Additionally, the prioritisation of artificial intelligence and innovation will prepare South Africans, especially the youth, for future jobs, ensuring they are equipped with the skills needed in a rapidly changing global economy.
Hosting 130 G20 meetings across South Africa will also stimulate local economies, generate tourism opportunities, and showcase South Africa as a global hub for investment and innovation. These engagements will open doors for increased international partnerships and access to funding for critical national projects. ultimately contributing to the upliftment of communities and economic growth.
The G20 Presidency will also focus on advocating for fair financing mechanisms to address the debt burdens faced by many developing countries. This is critical to freeing resources for developmental programmes, which will help reduce poverty and drive job creation across the Global South.
As the gateway to this beloved continent, South Africa will ensure that its G20 Presidency maintains a strong symbiotic relationship with the African Union (NJ). This unprecedented opportunity will allow South Africa to champion the development of the African agenda, ensuring that the aspirations of the continent are central to the global discourse. The Presidency provides a platform to advance priorities such as regional integration, infrastructure development, and sustainable industrialisation, in line with the AUS Agenda 2063.
The ANC is confident that President Ramaphosa's leadership will advance South Africa's commitment to sustainable development, social justice, and building a better future for all. We call on all South Africans o rally behind this once-in-a-generation opportunity to position our country and continent at the centre of
global decision-making and to ensure that the benefits of this Presidency reach every corner of our society.
Issued by Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri, National Spokesperson, ANC, 20 November 2024
