Category: South Africa Government

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Inxiweni Primary principal and staff member shot dead inside school admin block

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

The Gauteng Department of Education has expressed shock and heartbreak following the fatal shooting of a principal and an administrative staff member at Inxiweni Primary School in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni.

The incident occurred at around 5pm inside the school’s administration block, where the principal, a 58-year-old woman, the administrator, a 55-year-old woman, and other colleagues were reportedly preparing for a meeting scheduled for later in the week.

According to initial reports, colleagues working in a nearby office heard sudden gunshots erupt from within the admin block. Fearing for their safety, they hid until it seemed safe to exit. When they emerged, they found the principal and the administrator lying in the passage. 

Emergency services were immediately called and responded swiftly, but both victims were declared dead at the scene.

Police have since launched an investigation into the circumstances of the shooting, though the motive remains unclear.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Education MEC Matome Chiloane visited the school on Tuesday evening to assess the situation firsthand. They met with the bereaved families to offer condolences and support, describing the incident as a devastating blow to the school community.

Psychosocial support teams from the Ekurhuleni North District are expected to be deployed to the school on Wednesday to provide trauma counselling to learners and staff. The department’s employee wellness unit will also provide additional support.

Chiloane condemned the attack, calling it a violation of a space meant to nurture young minds. 

“We are horrified by this senseless and brutal act committed within a school, a place meant to be a sanctuary for teaching and learning. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go to the families of the principal and the staff member whose lives were tragically cut short. We urge law enforcement authorities to move with speed to bring the perpetrator to justice,” he said.

The department said it will continue working closely with the police as investigations proceed. – SAnews.gov.za

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President Ramaphosa pledges deeper engagement with media sector as he receives M20 Johannesburg Declaration

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged to open direct discussions with the media sector to address concerns around journalist safety, media sustainability and the impact of new technologies, as he formally received the Media20 (M20) Johannesburg Declaration on Tuesday.

Speaking at the handover ceremony at Wanderers Country Club, President Ramaphosa said he strongly supported the issues raised by the media representatives, including the urgent need to protect journalists in conflict zones. 

“I support all these things that you’re focusing on, the safety of journalists is absolutely important. It’s been a horror for us to watch how journalists are targeted in war zones, particularly in Gaza. It has troubled us,” the President said. 

The President also welcomed the Declaration’s emphasis on women in media, gender-based violence, children’s rights, artificial intelligence and market practices affecting media viability. 

“We know that your sector is really facing challenges of sustainability, of survival, and that is the type of discussion that we would like to talk to you about,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa committed to creating more opportunities for constructive dialogue. 

“I am willing and my office will make it possible that we sit down and have a proper discussion. And of course, you can shoot as many questions as you want on any issue, but we should also have a real constructive engagement on how we continue to create a conducive environment for you as the media continue operating,” he said.

He further praised the country’s constitutional protections for media freedom. 

“You did not talk about our wonderful constitution, but you touched on it saying that we’ve got media freedom in South Africa, and we are, like number one,” he said.

The M20 Johannesburg Declaration is a document produced through extensive consultations led by Media Monitoring Africa and the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF).

The M20 Summit, held ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, brought together editorial leaders from more than 30 countries. The Declaration has been endorsed by over 70 local and international organisations, reflecting a strong global consensus on strengthening media freedom, protecting journalistic integrity, and combating disinformation.

This Declaration represents the consolidated views, commitments, and recommendations regarding the critical role of the media in strengthening democracy, accountability, and the socio-economic development of the nation, reflecting the high-level global and national consensus reached here in South Africa.

The document reflects the media sector’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of journalism and addresses key challenges, including disinformation, media sustainability, and the protection of journalistic integrity in the digital age. – SAnews.gov.za

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Anti-HIV injection lenacapavir added to Essential Medicines List

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Health’s National Essential Medicines List Committee (NEMLC) has approved the addition of the recently registered injectable lenacapavir to the Essential Medicines List (EML). 

The department said the decision aligns with the department’s mandate to ensure access to safe, effective, high-quality, and affordable medicines for all citizens in the public sector.

The department highlighted that including treatments like lenacapavir on the EML is vital for encouraging the production of generic medicines, which can enhance their availability and affordability, particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as South Africa.

The NEMLC is a non-statutory committee appointed by the Minister of Health, established under the National Drug Policy to develop and review an EML for public sector use, accompanied by standard treatment guidelines for three levels of care – primary, secondary, and tertiary.

The department believes that lenacapavir can effectively address critical gaps in current HIV prevention methods.

Last month, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) announced the registration of lenacapavir, making South Africa the first country on the continent to approve the groundbreaking twice-a-year anti-HIV injection.

This is after Gilead, a biopharmaceutical company based in the United States, applied to SAHPRA, the local drug regulatory authority. 

South Africa plans to launch lenacapavir, a groundbreaking long-acting HIV prevention method, as early as March 2026.

According to the department, the EML plays a crucial role as a global public health policy tool and a guide for countries to achieve universal health coverage. 

“It ensures that people have access to carefully selected and cost-effective medicines that satisfy their priority health care needs, are of quality and are affordable.” 

The department is of the view that access to affordable essential medicines is a vital component of an efficient health care system.

“In our resource-constrained environment with the high burden of disease, the value of the Standard Treatment Guidelines and EML in ensuring affordable and equitable access to medicines should not be underestimated.” – SAnews.gov.za 

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Remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Presidential Business Working Dinner

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director, Ms Bongi Kunene,
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola,
Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperation, Mr Parks Tau,
Ms Gloria Serobe, Chairperson of the Industrial Development Corporation,
Ms Lerato Mbele, Moderator of this evening’s session
Business Leaders,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am pleased to be among you this evening. Thank you for honouring our invitation. 

Your presence here is highly valued. 

We are gathering just three days before the start of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, which is being held for the first time on African soil. 

When we assumed the G20 Presidency, we said that Africa should be central to deliberations of this strategic forum.

This is the context in which we sought this engagement, so that we can share experiences and perspectives on advancing this agenda through trade, commerce and investment. 

On Friday, I will be meeting with the African Heads of State and Government who have been invited to the G20 Leaders’ Summit. 

At this meeting, I hope to showcase the extent and scope of investment by South African companies in other African countries. 

This will be an opportunity to reaffirm the commitment of South African companies to the development of our Continent. 

We will reiterate our shared responsibility to create conducive and enabling conditions for doing business in each other’s countries.  

We acknowledge the work undertaken by the B20 to connect the business community with governments. 

Many of you gathered here have made significant contributions to the B20 deliberations during our G20 Presidency. 

As South African executives, you have a critical role to play in efforts to drive inclusive growth across our continent and across the globe. 

As the most industrialised and diverse economy on the continent, with a vibrant and engaged business community, South Africa is well positioned to enable investment and trade across Africa. 

Domestically, we are seeing the green shoots of an emerging economic recovery.

The most recent employment figures are encouraging. We are set to record another primary budget surplus and are on a path to reduce our sovereign debt.

Our country has been taken off the FATF grey list after two years of hard work. And last week, S&P upgraded our country’s sovereign credit rating. 

Electricity supply has dramatically improved and we are seeing progress in the turnaround at our ports and railways.

Despite these positive developments, headwinds remain. 

In a complex and uncertain global economic environment, we need to strengthen the capacity of our economy to compete, to produce and to trade. 

Over many years, South African companies have become innovative and adaptive, skilfully navigating enormous challenges. 

These are capabilities that we should draw on as we broaden our horizons and explore new markets for trade and investment on our continent.

The implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area will profoundly transform market access for South African goods, services and investments. 

It will help to drive regional integration and value chains across borders.

It will expand opportunities for businesses to access a wider African market of about 1.4 billion people, with a combined GDP of 3.4 trillion US dollars. 

Grounded in our shared belief that South Africa’s growth and prosperity is intrinsically intertwined with that of the African Continent – and amplified by our common heritage and shared future – we must undertake this work with greater purpose and focus. 

As Africa grows and prospers, so South Africa will grow and prosper.

We are therefore calling on South African companies to be part of setting our country and our continent on a new economic trajectory.

This is a task that we need to undertake together, as government and business, as social partners, to look at the opportunities beyond our borders – and to be part of building a better Africa. 

Let it be the start of a new chapter in South Africa’s role in the economic development of our continent.

I thank you.

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President Ramaphosa calls on business to drive a new era of African growth

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged South African companies to take a leading role in shaping a new economic trajectory for the African continent, saying the country’s prosperity is inseparable from that of its neighbours. 

The President was delivering remarks at the Presidential Business Working Dinner at Investec in Sandton, held just three days before the G20 Leaders’ Summit, the first-ever to take place on African soil. 

“This is a task that we need to undertake together, as government and business, as social partners, to look at the opportunities beyond our borders and to be part of building a better Africa. Let it be the start of a new chapter in South Africa’s role in the economic development of our continent,” the President said at the dinner held on Tuesday night.

WATCH | Presidential dinner 

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Speaking to an audience of senior executives, industry leaders and government officials, President Ramaphosa said South Africa’s G20 Presidency had been guided by a clear vision that Africa must be central to the forum’s deliberations.

“This is the context in which we sought this engagement, so that we can share experiences and perspectives on advancing this agenda through trade, commerce and investment. On Friday, I will be meeting with the African Heads of State and Government who have been invited to the G20 Leaders’ Summit.
“At this meeting, I hope to showcase the extent and scope of investment by South African companies in other African countries.”

The President said the gathering would provide an opportunity to reaffirm the commitment of South African companies to the development of the continent, while encouraging reciprocal efforts to create more conducive conditions for doing business across African borders.

He acknowledged the significant role the Business B20 (B20) has played in connecting businesses with governments during South Africa’s G20 Presidency, noting that many of the executives present had contributed to those deliberations.
As the continent’s most industrialised and diversified economy, the President said South Africa is well-positioned to drive investment and trade across Africa. He pointed to encouraging signs within the domestic economy, including improved employment figures, another projected primary budget surplus, and progress in reducing sovereign debt.

He also highlighted several key developments, including South Africa’s exit from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list after two years of reforms, last week’s sovereign credit rating upgrade by S&P, and dramatic improvements in electricity supply. 

The President added that progress at ports and railways was also beginning to show.

“Despite these positive developments, headwinds remain,” the President cautioned, adding that South Africa must strengthen its capacity to compete and produce in a complex and uncertain global economic environment.

President Ramaphosa commended South African firms for their agility and innovation in navigating challenges over many years, attributes he said should now be leveraged as companies explore new markets across the continent.

Central to unlocking these opportunities, he said, is the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which will profoundly transform market access through enhanced regional integration and cross-border value chains. The agreement stands to open a market of 1.4 billion people with a combined GDP of US$3.4 trillion.

Grounded in the belief that South Africa’s destiny is bound to the continent’s, President Ramaphosa called for a renewed sense of purpose in driving Africa’s economic rise.
“As Africa grows and prospers, so South Africa will grow and prosper,” he said.

READ | South Africa’s economic diplomacy must anchor Africa’s rise

– SAnews.gov.za
 

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South Africa’s economic diplomacy must anchor Africa’s rise

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa’s economic diplomacy must become bolder and more strategic while also focusing on the African continent if it is to withstand escalating global uncertainty and advance its development goals. 

This was the central message delivered by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Ronald Lamola at a high-level Presidential Working Dinner with South African companies operating across the continent. 

The working dinner, which forms part of the G20 Outreach Programme was held on Tuesday evening held at Investec, Sandton. 

Speaking ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, Lamola said South Africa is hosting the G20 “at a unique moment,” shaped by widening geopolitical fractures, volatile trade tensions and shifting global power centres. 

“Responding to the uncertainties of today’s world, our government is fine-tuning an economic diplomacy strategy that rests on a few key assumptions and aspirations. In a world defined by competition for markets, minerals, technology, skills and investment, economic diplomacy can no longer be optional. 
“It is an indispensable part of positioning South Africa for long-term resilience and addressing our domestic challenges.”

The Minister told business leaders that President Cyril Ramaphosa had instructed him to convene the dialogue following the European Union’s Gateway announcement, underscoring the strategic significance of ensuring that South African companies are supported as they expand into African markets. 

READ | R230bn EU investment package will support growth

Strategy and potential

Lamola outlined the government’s emerging economic diplomacy strategy, built on a set of foundational assumptions and aspirations aimed at positioning South Africa more competitively. 
At the heart of this strategy is the long-standing principle that “Africa is our home; Africa is our destiny,” a thread that has run through three decades of South African foreign policy. 

“This economic diplomacy strategy gives practical expression to that orientation. The fate of our continent requires Africans, including ourselves, to act together to advance and defend our interests and to play our part in transforming the global order,” he said. 

The strategy seeks to attract investment, stimulate growth and build stronger regional value chains, particularly in sectors such as critical minerals and manufacturing. These goals are aligned with the 2024–2029 Medium-Term Development Plan, which prioritises inclusive growth, reindustrialisation and the expansion of South Africa’s trade footprint.

He highlighted Africa’s immense economic potential: a young population, abundant mineral resources essential for the global energy transition, and a growing market that could reach USD 3.4 trillion under a fully implemented African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Yet, he also pointed to persistent obstacles. Only 16% of Africa’s trade is conducted within the continent, and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region sits at 21%. He argued that South Africa must strive for 50% trade integration within the SADC to meaningfully boost continental trade.
Economic prospects

The Minister presented three “provocations” to guide conversations with business leaders, likening them to a three-legged pot holding Africa’s future economic prospects.

The first, he said, is the need to deepen regional investment in a reciprocal way. South African companies have long been catalytic players in African markets, building infrastructure, expanding telecommunications, and growing financial and retail networks. 

However, these gains are often undermined by policy uncertainty, inconsistent regulations, stringent exchange controls, and occasional unfair treatment of South African firms. Such challenges weaken the growth of regional value chains, Lamola warned.

“Mr President, I am pleased to report that DIRCO and the dtic [Department of Trade, Industry and Competition], working closely with business, have established a new coordination platform to unlock opportunities across the continent.

“This mechanism, known as the Committee for the Coordination of Economic Diplomacy (COMED), brings Government and the private sector together to advance South Africa’s economic footprint,” he said. 

A new investment facilitation framework is also under development, designed to support companies through foreign economic offices, improve regulatory guidance, strengthen risk-mitigation tools and enhance dispute-prevention mechanisms. This framework will be anchored in the Protection of Investment Act and complement both the AfCFTA Investment Protocol and the World Trade Organization (WTO’s) Investment Facilitation for Development.

The second leg of the “three-legged pot” addresses growing public scepticism at home toward regional integration. 

Lamola said the government must demonstrate, tangibly, that regional cooperation and intra-African trade create meaningful economic benefits for ordinary South Africans not only for political leaders or commercial elites.

The third leg calls on business leaders themselves to embrace long-term thinking and resist the lure of short-term gains. Lamola argued that sustainable profits and broader societal returns are not mutually exclusive, and that a narrow horizon of immediate profit “serves none of us.”

“You may argue that this three-legged pot of provocations is missing one vital element. That is the fire to keep the pot burning. You are right, and it is us in this room that must start [the] fire. 

“Through President Ramaphosa’s leadership, we can secure buy-in from key actors in society, especially the people in this room,” the Minister said. 

Lamola credited President Ramaphosa’s leadership, strategic judgement and Ubuntu-centred approach as central to galvanising this collaboration. – SAnews.gov.za

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NATJOINTS expresses confidence in security plans

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has expressed confidence in the safety and security preparations for this weekend’s G20 Leaders’ Summit.

“As the NATJOINTS, we have been meeting daily with all relevant role-players to ensure our security plan is well-executed,” NATJOINTS Chairperson Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili said on Tuesday.

South Africa will host the Leaders’ Summit on 22 and 23 November 2025 after having assumed the G20 Presidency in December 2024.

READ | SA’s G20 Presidency drives inclusion, equity and sustainability

“We are therefore confident in saying that the safety and security preparations for the Summit are well on track, with all critical role players already on the ground executing their various responsibilities as per their mandate,” she said.

This as a five-pillar approach has been taken for the summit that will be hosted on African soil for the first time.

The five-pillar approach speaks to: 
•    Intelligence gathering, analysis and co-ordination; to ensure police detect, prevent and combat all forms of criminality timeously.
•    A proactive approach which includes high visibility to police all hotspot areas to prevent, and respond to any element of criminality.
•    The implementation of the Combat approach in response to any violation of the law through the deployment of uniformed officers including specialised units. Should the need arise, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is also on standby to exercise their secondary role of supporting the South African Police Service (SAPS).
•    Reactive approach through detection and case management.
•    Awareness and information sharing led by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), and Communication teams from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and the SAPS, keeping interested parties and communities at home and abroad updated through messaging that will enhance the safety and security of everyone in the country – residents and visitors alike.

Addressing the media at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg on the state of security readiness for the Summit, Mosikili urged the public to take note of the identified road closures and cooperate with law enforcement authorities. She added that roads will be closed off completely and movement from pedestrians, cyclists and motorists will be limited when convoys pass through.  

“Roads will be opened as soon as the convoys move past the affected routes,” she said.

This as the Road Traffic Management Corporation as well as the Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni Metro Police Departments have already appraised communities of the affected road closures and possible traffic delays.  The specific routes that are already affected include parts of the N1, N12, R21, N3, R24 and the M1. 

READ | G20: Road closures

She warned that lawlessness will not be tolerated and those found on the wrong side of the law will face the might of the law.

“We would like to remind members of the public that the safety of our visitors and that of South Africans as a whole, is paramount and anyone who tries and even attempts to test our security measures – will face the full might of the law.”

With regards to groups planning to protest within the Nasrec vicinity, Mosikili urged them to do so within the confines of the law.

“Failure to do so, could land you on the wrong side of the law and we shall also not hesitate to act decisively with any acts of lawlessness. Designated speakers’ corners around the vicinity of Nasrec have been identified for this purpose.

“We will therefore not allow any disruptions, lawlessness and no damaging and defacing of G20 infrastructure including posters. It is on that note, that we request everyone within the borders of South Africa to cooperate with law enforcement officers at all times, to enable us to deliver a successful event.”

WATCH | NATJOINTS briefing 

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Boots on the ground

With the maximum resources in place, law enforcement is prepared and ready to police the event with fit for purpose members.

“Together with various law enforcement agencies including the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) and the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), we are executing and implementing the security plan accordingly, with more boots on the ground,” she said.

Accreditation 

With regard to the access to the venue, Lt Gen Mosikili said only those in possession of valid accreditation will be allowed near the venue and restricted areas.

“Therefore, those who are still without accreditation which includes officials and members of the media are advised to obtain a non-transferable accreditation,” she said.

She warned that those found with fraudulent accreditation or using another person’s accreditation, will face the full might of the law.

“No accreditation card, no entrance to the venue,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Keynote address by the Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile at the opening and welcoming ceremony of the second G20 Social Summit

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Directors, Deputy Minister Alvin Botes and Luanda Mpungose;
Co-Convenors of the G20 Social Summit, former Deputy President Her Excelency, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka and Minister in the Presidency, Honourable Khumbudzo Ntshavheni;
Premier of Gauteng, Mr Panyaza Lesufi, Premiers, MECs and Members of Legislatures here present;
The Executive Mayor of the City of Ekurhuleni, Clr Nkosindiphile Xhakaza; Mayors and Councillors here present;
The Chairperson of the NCOP, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane;  
UN Assistant Secretary General and Director of UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa, Ms Ahunna Eziakonwa;
Resident Coordinator of the UN in South Africa, Mr Nelson Muffuh;
His Excellency, Nardos Bekele Thomas, CEO-AUDA NEPAD, African Union;
Former AU Chairperson, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma;
African Civil Society head of Secretariat, Ambassador William Carew;
Chair of C20, Mr Thulane Tshifuta;
Ministers, Deputy Ministers and Members of Parliament; 
Excellencies, Ambassadors, Members of the Diplomatic corps;
The House of Traditional Leadership and Khoisan, led by the Deputy Chairperson, Nkosi Langa Mavuso and Traditional Leaders here present;
Interfaith Leaders here present; 
Heads of Delegation of Civil Society Organisations;
Sherpas of the 2025 G20;
Distinguished Representatives of International Organisations;
Coordinators of the Thematic Areas;
Directors General, CEOs, City Managers and Government Officials here present;
Distinguished Guests and Delegates;
Members of the Media,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good afternoon, Avuxeni, Sanibonani, Dumelang, Goeie Middag!

On behalf of His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa, the Government and the people of South Africa, I would like to begin by extending a very warm welcome to both local and international delegations to Ekurhuleni, the host city of the 2025 G20 Social Summit in South Africa. 

Our country is honoured by your presence, and I can assure you that you will enjoy South Africa’s hospitality, which is founded and shaped by the traditional African philosophy of Ubuntu. 

Ubuntu is a profound African philosophy rooted in the idea that our individual humanity is deeply connected to the humanity of others. This interconnectedness is often encapsulated in the saying, “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu, I am because we are”.  

This saying suggests that one’s existence and identity are shaped by communal relationships and shared experiences. 

The core similarities between the Ubuntu philosophy and the objectives of the G20 Social Summit lie in their shared emphasis on interconnectedness, collective responsibility, solidarity, and the pursuit of social justice and equality for all people.

Recognising that “South Africa is because of Africa”, our G20 Presidency embraces an Afrocentric Leadership Model that highlights inclusivity, participation, and consultation. 

Through this model, we value inclusivity, harmony and interconnectedness, while focusing on creating a lively and energetic representation of shared aspirations of a unified Africa.

In the same spirit of communal responsibility, solidarity, engagement and consultation, South Africa initiated an inclusive National Dialogue: a people-driven, society-wide process to reflect, reset and reimagine South Africa’s future.  

Through the National Dialogue, the aim is to collectively address significant challenges facing the country, such as poverty, inequality, and social divisions. This process began with the First National Convention in August 2025, where an agenda for nationwide public dialogues was set. Ultimately, this initiative is expected to culminate in a second National Convention in 2026, at which a new social compact outlining directives for the next 30 years will be established. 

Therefore, this moment is crucial for South Africa, symbolising not only its national objectives but also the aspirations of the African continent, as outlined in Agenda 2063, the African Union’s strategic framework and action plan to transform Africa into an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful continent.

The African Union’s membership in the G20 is pivotal for amplifying African perspectives within the global economic and financial landscape. Our goal is to integrate African voices into global governance, striving for a more equitable and sustainable future consistent with the vision of the AU Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

This G20 Social Summit, therefore, provides us with an unprecedented opportunity to highlight the African Agenda and the concerns of the Global South inside the world’s foremost platform for international economic cooperation.

Your Excellencies,

Despite its vast potential, Africa remains underdeveloped, with many communities still living in poverty and enduring ongoing displacement due to recurring political, economic, environmental and security challenges.

We believe it is time for Africa to advocate for lasting peace and commitment to resolving conflicts through negotiated political settlements. 

When we achieve peace and political stability, we as Africans are better positioned to secure sustainable financing, debt relief, fairer trade, and stronger representation in global economic governance, thereby advancing both the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063.

The foundation of South Africa’s G20 Presidency is its commitment to strengthening and reforming the international financial architecture, as well as deepening international economic cooperation. That forms part of the efforts to address the North-South divide, and the persistent poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment, especially in the developing world.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

What is equally crucial is that the G20 Social Summit presents South Africa with a strategic opportunity to frame global policy discussions around young people’s capacities to drive inclusive economic development, inclusion and sustainability.

This presents an opportunity for the continent to take charge of its development. It is a call to reshape the global order toward justice, equity, and sustainability through the leadership and capabilities of our youth.

It is commendable that through the Y20 Communiqués, African youth have effectively delivered direct, youth-driven recommendations to G20 Leaders, influencing policy and decision-making. Their active participation in the Y20 and Social Summit positions them as vital contributors to the creation of a sustainable and inclusive global future.

Another issue we must assertively address at this summit is our collective effort to combat Gender-Based Violence. Gender-Based Violence continues to be one of Africa’s most pressing and severe social issues, eroding the dignity, security, and economic engagement of women and children throughout all communities. 

As we participate in this G20 Social Summit, it is important that we leverage this international platform to raise awareness, enhance accountability, and coordinate effective action. 

We urge the international community to address the enduring and emergent obstacles to gender equality with renewed urgency, solidarity, and innovation.

I must further indicate that the growth of the global south and the changing patterns of international cooperation illustrate significant shifts in global power dynamics impacting the current generation. Essentially, this points to a multipolar shift in global power.

The global south is increasingly asserting its voice, with institutions such as BRICS and the African Union, along with the G20 Presidency, highlighting a consensus that development should be inclusive, focused on people, and driven by youth. 

This situation presents a collective opportunity to reshape global discourse by emphasising that Africans are not merely passive recipients of aid or policy but active agents of innovation, enterprise, and governance.

This being the second G20 Social Summit, we must acknowledge its importance as a forum that will guarantee that international leaders receive direct input from the people prior to making significant decisions. Building on Brazil’s 2024 G20 Presidency, South Africa maintains the importance of the G20 Social Summit as a vehicle for advancing the voice of civil society and other non-state actors in the agenda and declaration of the G20.

I have pleasantly observed that the lead-up to this Summit has been marked by unwavering rigour, inclusion and determination from sectors of international civil society, ensuring that their voices find meaningful expression in the G20 Agenda.

Distinguished Delegates,

We all know that South Africa’s 2025 G20 Presidency is guided by the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”. 

This theme underscores the significance of social justice, inclusive development, and multilateral fairness as fundamental principles of global governance. It demonstrates a shared commitment to creating a world where cooperation transcends borders and fosters inclusive global economic growth.

Acknowledging the fact that the world we live in is currently grappling with a multitude of challenges, where there is a complex interplay between competition and threats around the globe.

As we endeavour to make international cooperation a reality, we remain inspired by the words of the world-renowned economist and Nobel Laureate Angus Deaton, who reminds us that “international cooperation is vital to keeping our globe safe, commerce flowing, and our planet habitable”.

These words emphasise the necessity of global collaboration for security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. South Africa believes that our challenges are inherently transnational, meaning that no single nation can solve them alone.

Instead, international cooperation facilitates the pooling of resources, knowledge and efforts to address these interconnected issues effectively. We must continuously find ways to build bridges to common ground. Working together is key to building a better future with solutions that fit our unique challenges.

This year’s G20 Social Summit should be about developing solutions while serving as a platform for fostering cooperation and collaboration between state and non-state actors to advance a sustainable global partnership for development. 

Most notably, enhanced South-South cooperation should become a practical reality, reinforced by tangible North-South cooperation.

The 2025 G20 main priority is to call for global collective partnership and action, while emphasising the achievement of inclusive growth, sustainable development, technological transformation, and addressing global challenges such as climate change and socio-economic inequalities.

The other overarching priorities are as follows:

  • Strengthening disaster resilience and response
  • Ensuring debt sustainability for low-income countries
  • Mobilising finance for a Just Energy Transition and
  • Harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth and sustainable development.

To drive this agenda, we have introduced three cross-cutting Task Forces bridging the Sherpa and Finance Tracks, namely;

  • Task Force 1: on Inclusive Economic Growth, Industrialisation, Employment and Reduced Inequality
  • Task Force 2: on Food Security
  • Task Force 3: on Artificial Intelligence, Data Governance and Innovation for Sustainable Development.

Beyond these, South Africa is progressing with a Broadened Compact with Africa 2.0, which aims to enhance the continent’s development priorities by integrating them into the global economic agenda.

The Broadened Compact with Africa 2.0 represents a key strategic initiative designed to advance economic transformation and foster technological innovation in African countries by promoting private investment and policy reform.

This initiative builds upon the foundation established during the German Presidency, emphasising a collaborative approach to Africa’s economic development.

The Social Summit, therefore, focuses on five thematic areas as follows:

  • Digital Inclusion and Equitable Transformation
  • Trade, Resilience and Inclusive Value Chains
  • Inclusive Climate Justice, a Just Transition, and Energy Democracy
  • A Just and Sustainable Finance and International Financial Architecture
  • Building Momentum for the achievement of the SDGs and Agenda 2063.

These thematic areas maintain their significance in facilitating strong discussions and delivering actionable recommendations from global civil society regarding the inclusive future direction of the G20 and its Social Summit.

As I have mentioned, the G20’s future direction, particularly under our South African Presidency, aims to address deep-seated global inequalities and challenges, with a strong emphasis on the needs of Africa and the Global South.

It is incumbent upon leaders of the world’s largest economies to rise to the occasion, to lead by example, and to chart a course towards a more sustainable, equitable, and peaceful world.

With its rich history of overcoming adversity and deep commitment to social justice, South Africa stands ready to play its part in this noble endeavour.

From our struggles against apartheid to our ongoing efforts to combat poverty, inequality and discrimination, we have shown time and again that progress is possible when we stand together, united in purpose and driven by a shared vision of a better future.

For us, collaboration and solidarity are not just aspirations; they are necessities for shaping a more inclusive, equitable and sustainable global future. 

As we engage in discussions in the upcoming days, we must remember the billions of lives at stake, the aspirations of unborn children, and our profound responsibility to leave behind a world that surpasses the one we inherited.

Let us commit ourselves to concrete actions, bold initiatives, and transformative policies that will bring about positive change and create opportunities for all. 

In conclusion, I am confident that by working together, harnessing the power of collaboration, and embracing the values of solidarity and empathy, we can overcome even the greatest of challenges and build a future that is brighter, fairer, and more sustainable for generations to come.

I am confident that this Social Summit will serve as a platform for fostering cooperation and collaboration between state and non-state actors in advancing a sustainable global partnership for development. 

It will surely incorporate the voices of civil society into the G20 decision-making process, promote global solidarity, advance inclusive development, and ultimately produce a declaration that accurately reflects the aspirations and realities of citizens’ lives.

We wish to express sincere appreciation to all the engagement groups and social partners who have invested their time, expertise and energy in developing concrete proposals and declarations in the lead-up to the G20 Social Summit. 

These collective efforts will not only strengthen the Social Summit Declaration, which you will formally present to President Ramaphosa at the closing session of this Summit on the 20th of November 2025, but will also meaningfully inform and shape the G20 Leaders’ Summit Declaration. They will help to embed social justice, inclusion and sustainable development at the heart of the G20 agenda.

We call on all actors to maintain their engagement beyond the formal adoption of the G20 Declarations by remaining actively involved in tracking and assessing the implementation of commitments. In doing so, you will help to drive timely adjustments and ensure that G20 decisions lead to tangible, measurable progress in people’s lives.

Once again, welcome to South Africa, the land of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. I wish you fruitful deliberations and contributions to the outcome document of the 2025 G20 Summit.

I thank you, Ha khensa, Inkomu!

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Remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the handover of the Report of the South Africa G20 Africa Expert Panel for the G20 Leaders’ Summit

Source: President of South Africa –

Chairperson of the Africa Expert Panel, Mr Trevor Manuel,
All members of the Panel present today,
Ladies and gentlemen,
 
Good afternoon.
 
The release of the Report of the Africa Expert Panel today marks a key milestone in South Africa’s G20 Presidency, which has sought to advance solutions for the issues that matter most to the African continent.
 
Later this week, we will host the first G20 Leaders’ Summit to be convened in Africa. 
 
This Summit takes place as the world grapples with complex and urgent challenges. The solutions to many of these challenges can be found on our continent.
 
The Panel’s Report reminds us that the greatest opportunity for global prosperity in the 21st century lies in Africa. 
 
We have a youthful and growing population, dynamic and innovative societies, and a wealth of natural resources. This includes the critical minerals needed to power new technologies around the world.
 
To harness this unique opportunity, we support the Panel’s call for a new partnership among African countries, between Africa and the G20, and between Africa and the world.
 
This partnership must focus on mobilising the financing that Africa needs to make productive investments in its infrastructure and its people.
 
If we do not address the debt burden facing many African countries, we risk a lost decade for development in Africa and other regions of the world.
 
That is why South Africa has made debt sustainability a high-level priority of our G20 Presidency.
 
The Ministerial Declaration on Debt agreed by G20 member countries last month acknowledges the importance of the debt and development challenge and provides a basis for further concrete action to be taken.
 
The Report of the Africa Expert Panel puts forward clear and specific proposals that build on the commitments outlined in the declaration.
 
The Panel’s Report highlights the high cost of capital faced by African countries, which are higher than in other regions with similar fundamentals. 
 
This raises the cost of borrowing and limits equity investment in Africa.
 
To reduce the cost of capital, we need to mobilise significantly more concessional funding from multilateral development banks and African trade and finance institutions.
 
We need to address biased risk perceptions of Africa by mandating greater transparency and accountability from credit rating agencies.
 
As an independent group of experts, the Africa Expert Panel has placed on the table detailed recommendations supported by evidence that the G20 should consider. 
 
Together, the actions they propose can create an investment boom in Africa.
 
South Africa will take these proposals forward not only in the G20 but in other international fora, working closely with the African Union and other partners.
 
This Report adds significant impetus to our collective effort to ensure that Africa mobilises the resources that it needs to develop and to grow.
 
I thank you.

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Mlambo-Ngcuka urges Africa to lead its own development

Source: Government of South Africa

Former Deputy President and co-convenor of the G20 Social Summit, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, has issued a call to action to forge a new path for Africa while harnessing its natural endowments.

Mlambo-Ngcuka was speaking during the opening ceremony of the summit held at the Birchwood Hotel in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng on Tuesday.

“Africa is not poor. It has more than 50% of the world’s arable land so we shouldn’t be having poverty and hunger. Africa is not poor. We should be able to industrialise because we have 30% of the world’s critical minerals. If Africa is not doing well, it is because we are not providing leadership. 

“So, in these three days…all of us should look at how we start the new order with each one of us taking the responsibility to lead, governments, civil society, business and institutions. It is only when we lead together with purpose, that we’ll give birth to the Africa we want, the Africa we dream of,” she asserted.

The summit brings together a diverse range of formal and informal networks, including youth movements, women’s organisations, faith-based groups, organisations of persons with disabilities, community forums, and other grassroots structures who will deliberate on global issues that directly impact people’s daily lives.

“In planning the G20 Social [Summit], we wanted to make sure that in the deliberations…we come with initiatives that will be sustainable. We wanted to make sure that since this G20 is in Africa…it must [have] initiatives that will impact significantly on Africans.

“We as Africans must make sure that these are things we can do without dependency on many other contributors. Yes, we welcome solidarity but at the end of the day, we should take the responsibility for making changes,” she said.

A summit for all

The co-convenor reflected on South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 and its promise to leave no-one behind.

“When South Africa assumed the Presidency of the G20 during the [Leaders’] Summit held in Brazil in 2024, our President [Cyril Ramaphosa] made a promise that this Social Summit will continue.

“That in South Africa, we will host the Social Summit because we believe in the voices of civil society. We acknowledge that [the] programme would be nothing without the lived experience of those people…the people who, in many of our countries, make it possible for us to live and lead from day to day.”

She emphasised the importance of the outcomes of the summit, as a declaration is expected to be handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa at the conclusion of the summit on Thursday.

“The outcomes of this summit must support the last five remaining years of the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. We must also support the vision that is enshrined in [African Union] Agenda 2063.

“All of these has to be reflected in the choices that we make and the recommendations that we make. I would also want to encourage you to think about what will happen next year. How will we ensure that what we’ve decided here will not be lost along the way?

“We must ensure that we have provided a cushion for the Social Summit so that at some point, it can reemerge in the format that we want to continue to grow,” Mlambo-Ngcuka said. 

Deputy President Paul Mashatile addressed the opening of the summit where he urged global leaders to recognise the significant impact of their decisions on humanity’s future.

READ | Deputy President calls for collective action, sustainability at G20 Social Summit
– SAnews.gov.za