South Africa’s upcoming presidency of the Group of Twenty (G20) in 2025 represents an unparalleled opportunity for Africa to assert its economic priorities on the global stage. As the first African nation to lead this powerful intergovernmental forum, South Africa can not only champion its national interests but also galvanise the continent’s collective aspirations. The African Union’s (AU) recent ascension to permanent membership in the G20 has created a window to amplify Africa’s voice in global governance, but the real test lies in translating this symbolic victory into tangible outcomes.

While South Africa has long been seen as the gateway to Africa for international investors, this presidency offers the chance to redefine its leadership role by fostering deeper regional collaboration within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the wider African continent. By championing inclusive economic growth, debt sustainability, food security, and climate action, South Africa has the potential to spearhead policies that address Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities. Yet, achieving these goals requires a concerted effort not just from South Africa but from its neighbours and regional partners.

South Africa’s G20 presidency theme, “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” aptly reflects the continent’s needs. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a flagship initiative of the AU, is a case in point. With the potential to boost intra-African trade by 52% by eliminating import duties, AfCFTA could transform Africa’s economic landscape. However, the benefits of AfCFTA will only materialise if regional blocs like SADC fully embrace it. SADC nations, including Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Mozambique, must work together to harmonise trade policies, streamline customs procedures, and improve cross-border infrastructure. By using its G20 platform to highlight these needs, South Africa can attract the investment necessary to bring AfCFTA to life.

Debt sustainability presents another pressing issue. With 22 African countries either in or at risk of debt distress, the continent faces significant financial constraints. South Africa has an opportunity to push for systemic reforms in global financial governance, advocating for fairer sovereign credit ratings and reduced risk premiums for developing nations. Yet, this advocacy will only be impactful if it is backed by regional consensus. SADC nations must align their positions on debt restructuring, creating a unified voice to challenge inequitable financial practices.

Food security, a perennial issue, affects over 250 million Africans who face chronic hunger. The G20 presidency offers South Africa a platform to champion policies that support agricultural innovation, sustainable farming practices, and climate-resilient food systems. SADC countries can complement these efforts by committing to regional food security strategies, such as establishing grain reserves, investing in irrigation projects, and improving access to agricultural financing. Regional cooperation in this sector will not only enhance resilience but also create a stronger case for international support.

Climate action is another area where South Africa can lead. Despite contributing less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, Africa is disproportionately vulnerable to climate change impacts. South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Investment Plan, which seeks to mobilise $8.5 billion to transition away from coal, is a model that other SADC countries can adopt. By collaborating on renewable energy projects, such as solar farms in Namibia and wind energy in Mozambique, the region can position itself as a global leader in sustainable development. The G20 presidency provides a platform to secure funding for these initiatives and advocate for climate justice.

Beyond policy, South Africa’s G20 presidency must also focus on strengthening regional institutions. SADC, as one of Africa’s most established economic blocs, has the potential to play a pivotal role in implementing the continent’s development agenda. South Africa should use its leadership position to revitalise SADC, encouraging member states to adopt cohesive economic policies and enhancing the bloc’s ability to negotiate collectively on the global stage. By fostering unity within SADC, South Africa can present a more compelling case for Africa’s priorities at the G20.

Moreover, South Africa must pivot this opportunity to deepen regional engagement through high-level diplomacy. The presidency offers a chance to convene African leaders, not only from SADC but also from East and West Africa, to align their goals. This could include summits focused on intra-African trade, climate financing, and infrastructure development, ensuring that the G20 presidency serves as a springboard for long-term continental cooperation.

Countries within SADC also stand to benefit significantly if they align themselves with South Africa’s vision. Zimbabwe, for instance, can leverage its agricultural potential and mineral wealth by participating in regional initiatives that South Africa could champion at the G20. Similarly, Botswana’s diamond industry and Namibia’s renewable energy projects can find a larger audience through South Africa’s leadership. The key is for SADC nations to proactively engage with South Africa, offering well-articulated proposals that address their unique challenges while contributing to regional goals.

South Africa’s G20 presidency coincides with a challenging global geopolitical landscape. Rising tensions among major economies, the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing climate crisis have created an atmosphere of uncertainty. These challenges require South Africa to adopt a pragmatic yet ambitious approach, ensuring that Africa’s priorities are not sidelined by larger global issues.

Ultimately, the success of South Africa’s G20 presidency will depend on its ability to balance domestic, regional, and global interests. By fostering regional cohesion, championing Africa’s development agenda, and building strategic alliances with other G20 members, South Africa can leave a lasting legacy. This presidency is not just an opportunity for South Africa; it is a moment for Africa to assert itself as an equal partner in global governance. It is a moment to reimagine Africa’s role in the world, demonstrating that the continent is not merely a recipient of aid but a vital contributor to global prosperity.

South Africa must seize this historic opportunity with both hands. The world is watching, and Africa is counting on its leadership. The choices made during this presidency will shape not only the future of South Africa but also the trajectory of the entire continent. Let us hope that South Africa rises to the occasion, proving that African leadership can indeed chart a new course for global progress.

Written by Farai Ian Muvuti, the Chief Executive Officer of The Southern African Times, 2023 winner of the Young Entrepreneur of the Year award by the South African Chamber of Commerce UK, an advisor on the board of the Africa Chamber of Commerce, and a contributor to Arise News, Al Jazeera, and the BBC.

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