What You Should Know About Africa’s First G20 Summit

For the first time in history, Africa is hosting the G20 summit. Leaders from the world’s largest economies are gathering in Johannesburg on November 22 and 23 to discuss global challenges at a moment of heightened international tensions, including strained relations between Pretoria and Washington.

This is the first time it’s happening in Africa

The G20 was founded in 1999 and includes 19 countries plus two regional bodies: the European Union and the African Union (AU). 

This year, South Africa holds the rotating presidency, making the continent the host for the first time. Together, G20 members account for 85 percent of the world’s GDP and nearly two-thirds of the global population. 

While South Africa is the only African country in the group, the AU was formally admitted in 2023.

This is a focus on solidarity, equality, and sustainability

South Africa has set key priorities for its presidency, including disaster resilience, debt sustainability for low-income nations, financing a just energy transition, and using critical minerals for sustainable growth. 

To tackle global inequality, President Cyril Ramaphosa commissioned a team of experts led by Nobel Laureate Joseph Stiglitz. The team’s recommendations include creating an intergovernmental panel to address what they call an “inequality emergency,” which currently leaves 2.3 billion people hungry worldwide.

US boycott

The summit faces challenges, including a boycott by the United States. President Donald Trump announced that no US officials would attend, criticizing South Africa’s leadership and imposing tariffs on the country. 

Despite this, South Africa remains optimistic about hosting a successful event.

Johannesburg in the spotlight

The summit is being held at the Nasrec Expo Centre, the largest conference venue in South Africa. Located near Soweto, it symbolizes post-apartheid integration. 

The G20 has also drawn attention to Johannesburg’s challenges, including crumbling infrastructure and poor public services. In response, the African Development Bank approved a $139 million loan to help upgrade the city ahead of the event.

This is the end of a ‘Global South’ run

After South Africa, the G20 presidency will pass to the United States, ending a series of “Global South” leaders from Brazil, India, and Indonesia. 

With questions about the G20’s future scope, including its expanded focus on social and environmental issues, all eyes are on Johannesburg as the summit begins.

The first G20 in Africa is more than a meeting, it is a moment for the continent to shape global discussions on inequality, sustainability, and growth.