This year marks a historic milestone as South Africa proudly hosts the G20 Summit – the first time this prestigious global gathering takes place on African soil. Under its rotating presidency from 1 December 2024 to 30 November 2025, South Africa will welcome leaders of the world’s largest economies to Johannesburg for two days of critical discussions on 22 and 23 November 2025. The theme for this year’s summit, “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” reflects the nation’s commitment to driving a fairer and more inclusive global agenda.
The G20, short for “Group of Twenty,” is an international forum that brings together 19 countries plus the European Union, representing the world’s major advanced and emerging economies. Collectively, G20 members account for about 85 percent of global GDP, over 75 percent of world trade, and a majority of the world’s population. What began in 1999 as a meeting for finance ministers and central bank governors has evolved into one of the most influential platforms for global economic cooperation.Hosting the summit is a significant moment for South Africa and the African continent as a whole.
It offers an opportunity to position Africa at the centre of global policy conversations – not merely as a participant, but as a driving force shaping decisions that affect the world. The choice of theme: Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability highlights South Africa’s priorities in promoting collaboration between nations, bridging economic divides, and ensuring long-term social and environmental balance.
As host, South Africa will steer discussions on some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including climate finance, sustainable development, debt relief for developing economies and reforming the global financial architecture. The summit also aims to strengthen trade and investment ties, improve digital infrastructure and create more equitable opportunities for all nations.
Throughout 2025, Johannesburg will be the stage for a series of high-level G20 events – from finance ministerial meetings and central bank governor discussions to business forums and cultural showcases – all leading up to the main Leaders’ Summit in November. Though the G20 is not a legally binding organisation, its influence is immense, with many of its decisions shaping global trends, policies and partnerships.
For South Africa, hosting the G20 Summit goes beyond logistics and diplomacy – it’s a defining moment to amplify the African voice in global governance. The summit provides an avenue to advocate for economic reforms that benefit developing nations and to showcase Africa’s growing role as a partner in innovation, sustainability and inclusive growth.
The 2025 G20 Summit in Johannesburg is more than just a meeting of world leaders. It’s a turning point in the story of global cooperation – a chance for the world to listen, learn and lead together from African soil. As the world’s eyes turn to Johannesburg this November, South Africa stands ready to make history under the banner of solidarity, equality and sustainability.
Image credit: g20.org
Content informed by official G20 South Africa 2025 communications.
