South Africa has assumed the presidency of the Group of 20 (G20), marking a significant milestone in its diplomatic and economic ambitions. This leadership role, which commenced on 1 December 2024, offers the country an unprecedented opportunity to drive both national and international agendas while fostering greater global engagement. As the host nation for the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025, South Africa is poised to use this platform to advance its economic interests, promote tourism, and reinforce South-South cooperation.
Thandi Morake, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, underscored the importance of this presidency during a G20 outreach programme at the University of Venda in Limpopo Province. She highlighted that the G20 represents a crucial platform for South Africa to advocate for its national, continental, and multilateral interests. Given the scale of this initiative, she described it as “the largest national project that South Africa has ever undertaken,” with significant implications for the economy, particularly in sectors such as tourism, transport, hospitality, and entertainment.
The economic benefits of hosting the G20 summit are expected to be substantial. South Africa anticipates a surge in global visibility, with direct and indirect job creation across all nine provinces. More than 40 heads of state, alongside numerous ministers and international delegates, are set to attend the event. This influx of global leaders presents a unique opportunity to showcase South Africa’s cultural heritage, tourism potential, and technological advancements. There is also an expectation that some visiting delegates may return for private visits, further contributing to the local economy.
In addition to national economic gains, South Africa is using its G20 presidency to elevate Africa’s development agenda. Morake emphasised that the country aims to shine a spotlight on the African Union’s Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, an ambitious strategic framework aimed at transforming the continent into a global powerhouse of the future. Furthermore, the presidency provides an avenue to champion the aspirations of the developing world, aligning with the objectives of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Key focus areas include food and energy security, industrialisation, and the expansion of trade and investment to drive job creation and social security.
Addressing broader socio-economic challenges, Morake stated that South Africa’s presidency would seek to promote inclusive economic growth, alleviate poverty, and mitigate the rising cost of living. Additionally, strengthening governance frameworks and ensuring sustainable development remain central to the country’s approach during its tenure.
Limpopo Province’s Premier, Phophi Ramathuba, expressed her region’s readiness to engage with international stakeholders, recognising the economic opportunities that the G20 presidency can create. She noted that outreach engagements would foster stronger ties, advance collaborative efforts, and ensure that global economic policies translate into tangible benefits for local communities.
The outreach programme held in Limpopo was attended by diplomatic representatives from over a dozen nations, reinforcing the importance of raising public awareness about the benefits of South Africa’s G20 presidency. These engagements are expected to continue in the lead-up to the summit, solidifying South Africa’s position as a key advocate for both national and global economic progress.
