President Cyril Ramaphosa speaks at a press conference during the G20 Foreign Minister Meeting at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg on February 20, 2025.
JOHANNESBURG - With the buzz around the G20, you might wonder what it’s about.
What is the G20
The G20, short for Group of Twenty, is an ‘international forum’ of developed and developing countries that meets to provide solutions to global economic and financial issues.
The G20 is being held in Africa for the first time, thanks to the African Union being added as a member.
The Summit takes place in Johannesburg in November 2025, following Brazil's successful turn as President in 2024.
The G20 comprises 19 countries:- Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, United Kingdom and the United States.
Why should you care
President Cyril Ramaphosa considers this a big moment for South Africa, Africa, and the world.
Three different groups head the summit, namely:
Representatives of the leaders
1. Focus on socio-economic issues, eg agriculture, corruption, climate, education, employment, energy, the environment, health, tourism, trade and investment
Finance ministers and Central Bank Governor
2. Focus on the global economy, infrastructure, financial inclusion, and international tax laws.
Engagement groups
3. G20 members consult with stakeholders comprising of non-governmental participants who contribute to the policy-making process.
What the G20 Presidency has to say
Ramaphosa says South Africa’s three priorities for the G20 Presidency are firstly, inclusive economic growth, industrialisation, employment and reducing inequality. Secondly, food security and finally, artificial intelligence, data governance and innovation for sustainable development.
By Zandile Khumalo