dyton mupawaenda
Richard Muponde
Zimpapers Politics Hub
SOUTH Africa is at the helm of the G20 in 2025, marking a historic moment as the first African nation to assume this critical leadership role.
This brings rays of hope for developing nations to assert their economic clout on the global stage and fight for equality.
It is the first time for an African economy to lead the G20 for a rotational, one-year term.
Brazil held the G20 presidency in 2024 and handed over the button to South Africa at the grouping’s summit in Rio de Janeiro on November 18 and 19, which was held under the theme, “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.”
The G20 is a forum of the largest economies in the world who meet regularly to discuss the most pressing issues facing the global economy.
Brazilian President Mr Louis Inácio Lula da Silva also known as President Lula handed the presidency to his successor, South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, in the presence of leaders of 19 member countries.
During its presidency, the Brazilian government established the following three G20 priorities: The fight against hunger, poverty and inequality. The three dimensions of sustainable development; economic, social and environmental.
In its 2025 tenure, South Africa seeks to provide strategic direction in establishing a more equitable, representative and fit-for-purpose international order, in-line with the main multilateral processes under the United Nations.
Last week, President Ramaphosa held an inaugural meeting with G20 Foreign Ministers in South Africa under the theme, “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability.”
This meeting was significant, as it highlighted Africa’s growing importance in global economic, political, and environmental discussions. President Ramaphosa emphasised the need for solidarity, equality, and sustainability in addressing global challenges, such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.
He also stressed the importance of African voices being heard on critical global issues.
Focus was also on various pressing issues, including strengthening disaster resilience and response, debt sustainability for low-income countries, mobilising finance for a just energy transition, and harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth and sustainable development.
This presidency comes at a pivotal juncture in global politics, characterised by intense competition for economic supremacy between the United States and China.
With Africa positioned at the epicentre of this geopolitical tussle, South Africa’s leadership offers a unique opportunity to rebalance power dynamics and amplify the voices of the Global South and East.
South Africa’s presidency is poised to alter the geopolitical landscape by providing a platform for developing countries to assert their interests against the established powers of the Global North led by the United States.
This is crucial as the US and China vie for resources and influence across Africa, a continent rich in minerals and raw materials critical for technological advancements.
By leading the G20, South Africa can advocate for policies that prioritise inclusive growth, food security, and sustainable development, aligning with the needs of African nations, while fostering cooperation with emerging economies.
In his remarks at the close of the summit after assuming the 2025 presidency, President Ramaphosa said as South Africa, they 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. The world is faced with severe challenges and crises.
“These are exacerbated by the fragility of global solidarity, crippling underdevelopment and deepening inequality. Yet, throughout the years of its existence, the G20 has always sought to confront global challenges head on,” he said.
The ascension of South Africa within the G20 also represents a significant advantage for BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
It allows these countries to leverage their collective influence, challenge the hegemony of Western powers, and promote a multipolar world order.
This newfound assertiveness can be instrumental in negotiating better trade terms and promoting economic partnerships that respect the sovereignty and development goals of African states.
China and Russia are expected to capitalise on South Africa’s presidency to deepen their influence in Africa, particularly as the continent becomes a focal point for resource extraction.
With vast lithium deposits and other minerals essential for the global transition to green technologies, African nations, like Zimbabwe, are increasingly attractive to these powers. South Africa’s leadership in the G20 may facilitate infrastructure investments and resource-sharing agreements that benefit both the African continent and its foreign partners.
This dynamic, however, also carries risks.
The potential for neo-colonial practices and exploitative relationships looms large as these nations seek to secure their interests. South Africa must navigate this complex landscape carefully, ensuring that Africa’s resources are utilised for local development and not merely siphoned off for external gains.
The G20 presidency presents a critical opportunity for South Africa to advocate for climate finance that addresses the urgent needs of poorer countries, particularly in light of recent disappointments at COP29 and other international forums.
The stark contrast between the US$250 billion pledged by developed nations and the US$1 trillion to US$5 trillion demanded by poorer countries underscores the urgency for innovative funding mechanisms that are equitable and sustainable.
By championing an agenda focused on climate resilience and debt relief, South Africa can help alleviate the growing debt crisis faced by many African nations, exacerbated by economic shocks and climate change.
Creating long-term debt strategies that prioritise financial resilience will empower African countries to invest in sustainable development rather than being trapped in a cycle of borrowing and repayment.
For Zimbabwe and other African nations, South Africa’s presidency is a vital opportunity to assert their voices in global economic and political discussions.
As Zimbabwe navigates debt arrears clearance negotiations, leveraging South Africa’s presidency can provide critical traction in advocating for fair treatment and support from the Global North.
Through aligning with South Africa’s leadership, Zimbabwe can push for economic emancipation and mutual respect in trade agreements, emphasising the need for equitable partnerships that prioritise the interests of African people.
South Africa’s G20 presidency represents a transformative moment for the world, particularly for Africa. It stands as a beacon of hope for the Global South and East, offering a platform to challenge prevailing power structures and assert their rightful place in the global economy.
In prioritising inclusive growth, climate resilience, and fair-trade practices, South Africa can not only enhance its standing, but also uplift the entire continent, paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future.
This presidency has the potential to reshape the geopolitical system, fostering a collaborative approach that recognises the value of all nations, irrespective of economic status.
Online Reporter