President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead South Africa’s delegation to the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) in New York from 21 to 24 September 2024. This year’s session is presided over by Mr Philemon Yang, former Prime Minister of Cameroon, reflecting the African Group’s pivotal role in global governance as Mr Yang assumes the position of President of the General Assembly.
The theme for this year’s Assembly, “Unity in diversity, for the advancement of peace, sustainable development, and human dignity for everyone everywhere,” underscores the international community’s collective responsibility to address global challenges in an increasingly polarised world.
President Ramaphosa is scheduled to deliver South Africa’s national statement during the opening day of the General Debate on 24 September 2024. His address will focus on pressing international issues, such as the imperative to maintain global peace and security, accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and intensify action on climate change in the lead-up to COP29, which will take place in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Furthermore, the South African president will address the challenges of financing development, highlighting the need for equitable financial support for developing nations to meet their sustainable development targets. In light of the global health crisis precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Ramaphosa will also emphasise pandemic preparedness and equitable access to health systems, particularly in the Global South.
President Ramaphosa’s visit will also involve participation in the High-Level Summit of the Future (SoTF) on 22 September 2024. Convened by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, the summit aims to culminate in the adoption of a “Pact for the Future” (PFTF), which will frame future international cooperation on key global challenges.
In addition to his official engagements at the UN, President Ramaphosa will hold meetings with international business leaders as part of South Africa’s broader efforts to attract foreign direct investment and stimulate economic growth. His delegation includes key ministers such as Mr Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation; Ms Maropene Ramokgopa, Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation; Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, Minister of Health; Dr Dion George, Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries; and Mr Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.
Contextualising South Africa’s Role at UNGA79
The 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly comes at a time when multilateralism is under scrutiny, and international cooperation is facing heightened challenges due to geopolitical tensions, economic inequalities, and climate change. Ramaphosa’s participation underscores South Africa’s commitment to multilateralism, particularly in championing the voices of developing nations and advancing the African Union’s Agenda 2063. His advocacy for sustainable development, peace, and security will be framed within South Africa’s broader foreign policy objectives.
Moreover, the forthcoming COP29 in Baku is expected to dominate climate discussions, as South Africa seeks to position itself as a leader in climate resilience, while continuing to advocate for climate finance and a just energy transition that safeguards the livelihoods of workers in coal-dependent industries.
