South Africa Makes History as First African G20 President

South Africa has become the first African nation to assume the G20 presidency, marking a historic milestone for the continent. The country’s president, Cyril Ramaphosa, accepted the position during the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with the year-long term commencing on December 1, 2024. In his address, Ramaphosa stated that Pretoria’s time at the organization’s helm will see the focus on inclusive economic growth, sustainable development, and tackling global inequalities. Under the theme of “solidarity, equality, and sustainability,” South Africa plans to prioritize the Sustainable Development Goals and amplify the development priorities of Africa and the Global South. Ramaphosa also emphasized the need for solidarity in addressing global crises, including conflicts in Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine, and pledged support for vulnerable nations facing pandemics and other emergencies.

SOURCE: MIDDLE EAST MONITOR