The President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, has emerged as the president of the G20, News About Nigeria reports.
This development makes South Africa the first African nation to lead the influential bloc of the world’s largest economies.
Ramaphosa took over at a handover ceremony on Tuesday during the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The outgoing G20 leader, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, officially transferred leadership to Ramaphosa, who stated that he would prioritize Africa’s development and the Global South’s interests during his tenure.
Ramaphosa also outlined three key areas of focus for his presidency: promoting inclusive economic growth, addressing food security, and leveraging artificial intelligence and innovation for sustainable development.
He said, “We will use this moment to bring the development priorities of the African continent and the Global South more firmly onto the G20 agenda.
“As South Africa, we 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.”
South Africa is the only African member of the G20, which represents the world’s largest economies.
In 2023, the African Union joined the forum as a member, reflecting growing global recognition of Africa’s role in shaping international policy.
The G20 consists of 19 countries and the European Union, with permanent guest status granted to Spain. Member nations include major economies such as the United States, China, Germany, and India.
