Date of Press Release: 04 September 2025
“This is Africa’s global moment. We invite the world to engage with these recommendations, collaborate with us and join us in leading change.”
B20 South Africa today formally handed over 30 recommendations to the G20 Presidency, marking atransformative moment for the continent and a significant development in global economic cooperation. The handover comes ahead of South Africa’s hosting of the G20 Summit this November, positioning the country at the centre of international dialogue on inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Cas Coovadia, B20 South Africa Sherpa, described the handover as “a turning point for Africa and the Global South,” emphasising that the recommendations are evidence-based, backed by key performance indicators and ready for implementation.
The proposals, developed across eight task forces, are structured around five strategic themes and three enabling mechanisms. These include capital access for infrastructure investment and industry, food security through enhanced agricultural value chains, climate-responsive economic systems, digital and skills transformation and industrialisation via Africa’s critical minerals. Supporting mechanisms focus on business resilience, public–private investment partnerships and the empowerment of women and small businesses.
Representing the G20 Presidency, South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola said the recommendations reflect that Africa can be a leading voice in the world in energy, agriculture, digital innovation and industrialisation. “They are not just African priorities, they are global imperatives and can be achieved only if we all meaningfully pursue solidarity, equality and sustainability” he said. There is a need to challenge narrow, extractive and self-interest driven economics. We should all strive for inclusive growth.”
The B20 South Africa calls on the global business community to take the lead in the advocacy phase. Coovadia urged the private sector to present financing models, data and demonstration projects that can bring the proposals to life, stressing that integrity, transparency and strong governance are essential.
This is the first time the B20 has been hosted on African soil, following recent presidencies in Indonesia, India and Brazil. The theme, “Inclusive Growth and Prosperity through Global Cooperation,” underscores South Africa’s commitment to shaping a connected and more equitable global economy. The B20 South Africa has also set a benchmark for gender equity, with 50 percent women representation in key leadership roles.
In the lead-up to the G20 Summit in November 2025, B20 South Africa will engage governments, multilateral institutions and business leaders to build momentum around the recommendations. The objective is to ensure the proposals are not only acknowledged but acted upon.
Minister Lamola extended the G20 Presidency’s congratulations to the B20 South Africa for reaching this important milestone, acknowledging the team for their dedication and vision. He also expressed the Presidency’s gratitude to the host, Business Unity SA (Busa), B20 South Africa Sherpa, Cas Coovadia, the Task Force leaders, their teams and the sponsors who believed in the transformative power of an African-led B20. “The success of B20 South Africa is a testament to what collaboration, commitment and shared purpose can accomplish,” he said.
“This is Africa’s global moment,” Coovadia said. “We invite the world to engage with these recommendations, collaborate with us and join us in leading change.”
For access to the policy recommendations, visit https://www.b20southafrica.org/final-task-force-papers/
This is truly Africa’s moment on the global stage! The B20 South Africa recommendations are well-timed and crucial for inclusive growth. It’s inspiring to see Africa lead in shaping a more equitable and sustainable global economy. The call for collaboration is strong, and I hope the world responds effectively.