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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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United Arab Emirates: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) receives credentials copy from new Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Source: APO – Report:

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H.E. Omar Obaid Alhesan Alshamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, received a copy of the credentials of H.E. Jamal Beker Abdula, Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to the UAE.

His Excellency wished the new Ambassador success in the performance of his duties and emphasized the UAE’s keenness to enhance the relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in all fields.

The newly appointed Ambassador praised the leading and prestigious position that the UAE enjoys regionally and internationally under the visionary policy of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

The United Arab Emirates and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia enjoy distinguished relations across a range of areas of mutual interest, and both sides are keen to further strengthen this partnership to serve shared interests and promote sustainable development for the two friendly countries and their peoples.

– on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Eritrea: Remains of Ancient and Historical Heritage Discovered

Source: APO – Report:

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 Mr. Temesgen Hagos, Head of Culture and Sports in the Adi-Keih sub-zone, reported that ancient and historical heritage has been discovered in Der’a, Adi-Keih sub-zone.

The discovered heritage includes various artifacts such as a seal, amphora, cup, water container, as well as rock paintings and scripts.

The ancient and historical heritage was found in agricultural land and construction sites.

Noting that the area is rich in ancient heritage, Mr. Temesgen urged for caution during construction activities and for the timely reporting of discoveries to concerned institutions.

Indicating that finding ancient artifacts in the area is not new, the residents called for scientific exploration and the collection of ancient remains so that they can be preserved and transferred to future generations.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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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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Eritrea: World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week

Source: APO – Report:

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The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministries of Agriculture and Land, Water and Environment, as well as UN partners, has commenced the World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week campaign under the theme “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.” The campaign is scheduled to take place from 17 to 24 November.

At the launching event held on 17 November at the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers Hall in Asmara, representatives of partner institutions delivered messages of support.

At the event, discussion papers were presented focusing on Multi-Drug Resistant Klebsiella Pneumoniae, a cross-sectional study conducted on bacterial pathogens and outcomes, and investigations into antimicrobial resistance patterns in urinary tract infections. The participants, for their part, conducted extensive discussions on the papers presented.

Speaking to Erina, Dr. Mulugeta Russom, Head of Drug Side-Effect Management at the National Medicine and Food Administration and coordinator of the program, said that the objective of the event is to enhance the awareness of health and agricultural professionals as well as the public at large to ensure the proficient use of medicines and antibiotics.

Dr. Goitom Mebrahtu, Director General of Medical Services at the Ministry of Health, said that this year’s theme calls for urgent and collective action on antimicrobial medicines to safeguard the health and well-being of future generations.

– on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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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

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South Africans have lost trust in the police, in parliament and in political parties – what that means

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Amanda Gouws, Professor of Political Science and Chair of the South African Research Initiative in Gender Politics, Stellenbosch University

For democracies to function well, citizens have to trust their institutions. Every incidence of bad service delivery or corruption will influence how much citizens trust institutions.

The latest incident that will most likely shake confidence in South Africa’s political system, and specifically the police and the criminal justice system, is the accusation by General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, provincial commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal province, that members of these institutions are involved in organised crime. The accusations are being investigated by the Madlanga Commission and heard in parliament by an ad hoc committee.

General Mkhwanazi alleged that the police minister, other members of the South African Police Force and members of the judiciary interfered with the investigation he was leading into political assassinations. He alleged they attempted to close down the “political killings task team” because of their own links to organised crime.

Signs of corruption have, over time, eroded political trust among citizens in South Africa.

In this article we discuss the findings of the most recent survey by Afrobarometer, a pan-African research network, and two attitude surveys done by Citizen Surveys for the South African Research Chairs Initiative chair in Gender Politics. The data of the SARChI Chair will be made public once the research project is concluded.

Prof Gouws specialises in the construction of surveys and analysis of survey data and Dr Kupolusi is a statistician who is her post-doctoral fellow and did the statistical analysis for this article.

The reports show a decline of trust over a four-year period. The 2022 Afrobarometer data supports the findings of our two attitude surveys.

Citizens have to trust a political system if they are to accept its legitimacy and support it. When they see the system as legitimate, citizens are more willing to obey the laws of the country. They then support the rule of law.

Political trust and legitimacy

We understand “political trust” as it was conceptualised by David Easton, an American political scientist, in 1975. It is the perceived likelihood that the political system will deliver public goods without having to be closely scrutinised by citizens. Political trust is closely linked to the concepts of political support and legitimacy.

These three concepts relate to each other in the following way. Support for the political authorities or a regime will typically express itself in two forms: trust or confidence in them, and belief in their legitimacy.

Trust is present when citizens feel that their own interests would be attended to even if the authorities were exposed to little supervision or scrutiny. Legitimacy is present when people believe it is right and proper to accept and obey the authorities, and abide by the requirements of the political system.

Trust and legitimacy are therefore distinct concepts. Trust is measured through political support for the regime and its authorities. Easton distinguishes between two types of support.

Diffuse support is a reservoir of positive attitudes and goodwill towards the regime as a whole, its underlying principles, and the larger political community. Diffuse support is more durable than specific support, which is trust in the incumbents of the political system.

Research has shown that levels of trust in institutions like parliament, parties and courts far outweigh judgements on national and personal economic well-being. Economic performance is more important in high income countries, but trust in institutions, coupled with free and fair elections, is more important in newer democracies.

Declining levels of trust

In this article, through the use of different surveys conducted at different points in time (2018 and two different surveys in 2022), we show how institutional trust has declined over time in South Africa, to the detriment of the political system.

We also show that there’s a gender gap – that men and women differ in their attitudes towards the rule of law.

The most recent Afrobarometer survey (Round 9, 2022) had a national sample of 1,582 respondents. It found “no trust” at 66% for the police, 73% for parliament, 75% for the ruling party and 72% for opposition parties. It is only for the courts where “no trust” is below 50%.

Afrobarometer’s findings corroborate those of our own surveys, done in 2018 and 2022 by Citizen Surveys, a survey company in Cape Town. The survey was conducted with a national stratified sample of 1,300 respondents in all nine provinces and translated into seven languages. The interviews were done face to face by the fieldworkers of Citizen Surveys.

What our surveys show are declining levels of trust over time in the most important institutions of the police, parliament and political parties, with “no trust” in all of them over 50%.

Frequency table of trust and Afrobarometer. Author

When it comes to the rule of law our 2022 data showed that 45.8% of respondents said it was “not necessary to obey the laws of a corrupt government”, 69% indicated that it was fine to “get around the law as long as you don’t break it”, 62% agreed that it was fine if “the law is suspended in times of emergency” and 50.4% thought it was “better to ignore the law and solve problems immediately than wait for a legal solution” (vigilante justice).

What surprised us was the difference between the attitudes of men and women for the rule of law in our 2022 data. For “it is not necessary to obey the laws of a corrupt government” 44% of men agreed vs 47% of women. For “it is all right to get around the law as long as you don’t actually break it” 65.6% of men agreed vs 71.4% of women. For “suspending the law in times of emergency” 61.2% of men agreed vs 63.5% of women. And for “sometimes it is better to ignore the law and solve problems immediately” 46.2% of men vs 53.4% of women agreed.

What this shows is that women are more militant in their attitudes towards (breaking) the rule of law – findings that were quite unexpected. It seems that women, who are often at the receiving end of crime, have had enough.

What needs to happen

Declining trust and support for the rule of law undermines the legitimacy of government. The courts have been a beacon of legitimacy but even for courts the level of “no trust” is close to 50%.

A serious problem is that citizens do not distinguish between institutions (diffuse support) and incumbents (specific support). This means that corrupt officials undermine trust in institutions (such as the police, parliament and political parties).

A decline in specific support affects diffuse support – that reservoir of goodwill toward institutions. When corruption is not dealt with, erosion of trust in institutions is a consequence of the behaviour of incumbents.

Political trust and support for the rule of law are important in democracies to sustain stability, and so that citizens will not start to look for alternative ways such as protest or political violence to make their demands known to those who govern them.

– South Africans have lost trust in the police, in parliament and in political parties – what that means
– https://theconversation.com/south-africans-have-lost-trust-in-the-police-in-parliament-and-in-political-parties-what-that-means-268804