Gauteng MEC hails 'successful' G20 as an emotional turning point for Africa

Gauteng Roads and Transport MEC Kedibone Diala-Tlabela has hailed the South African government for what she has described as a successful G20 Leaders' Summit.

Diala-Tlabela was among South African delegates who broke out into cheers at the close of the G20 Leaders’ Summit at Nasrec in the south of Johannesburg on Sunday.

The two-day gathering of global leaders marked the official end of South Africa’s year-long presidency.

A declaration was finalised on Saturday on key policy issues on the bloc’s radar, including climate-related issues, strengthening disaster resilience and responses, ensuring debt sustainability for low-income countries, and harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth.

Diala-Tlabela said the work that went into the G20 proves South Africa is a world-class country.

“We’re quite excited, such an emotional moment for us. I think this is the beginning of greater things. How I wish all of us can see this as a turning point for us as a nation and for Africa. The President steered the ship to where we are.”

She said the outcomes of the G20 will go a long way for the continent.

“We’re saying to Africans, let’s wake up, let’s wake the sleeping giant. Africa is bigger, Africa now is an equal on that platform of the G20.”