South Africa’s president, Ramaphosa becomes G20 president

The President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, has emerged as the president of the G20.

This development has made the South African country, the first African nation to lead the influential bloc of the world’s largest economies.

Ramaphosa took over at a handover ceremony on Tuesday during the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The former leader of the G20, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva officially transferred leadership to Ramaphosa, who said he would prioritise Africa’s development and the Global South’s interests during his tenure.

Ramaphosa also listed three key areas of focus for his presidency: promoting inclusive economic growth, addressing food security, and leveraging artificial intelligence and innovation for sustainable development.

He stated, “We will use this moment to bring the development priorities of the African continent and the Global South more firmly onto the agenda of the G20.

“As South Africa, we undertake to advance the work of the G20 towards achieving greater global economic growth and sustainable development. We will work to ensure that no one is left behind.”

South Africa is the only African member in the G20, the world’s largest economy.

The African Union joined the forum as a member in 2023, reflecting growing global recognition of Africa’s role in shaping international policy.

The G20 comprises 19 countries and the European Union, with permanent guest status granted to Spain.