Ramaphosa says goal of putting Africa, its development agenda at forefront of G20 achieved

Not even the absence of a world superpower could cast a blight on South Africa hosting one of the political world’s most prestigious gatherings in Africa for the first time.

The group of 20 Leaders’ Summit ended in Johannesburg on Sunday, with President Cyril Ramaphosa saying he had achieved his goal of putting Africa and its development agenda at the forefront of the economic bloc.

Now he said it’s for leaders to act on their commitments.

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Whether by broadcast glitch or a tactical move, Ramaphosa dispensed with the G20’s most crucial test right off the bat by tabling a declaration for adoption straight after opening remarks, which were streamed live across the world.

And while Argentina expressed dissent after the fact, the rest of the bloc were in agreement.

“Our agreement on a declaration during this summit demonstrates the value of the G20 as a forum that can facilitate joint action on issues of shared concern.”

As European Union leaders were huddled on the sidelines, dealing with the Ukraine-Russia war, global peace emerged as a resolution of this meeting.

“Recognising our interconnectedness as a global community of nations, we have called for an end to conflicts and wars around the globe and for a just, comprehensive and lasting peace.”

The G20 has also pledged to support low and middle-income countries to confront the debt that is impacting infrastructure development and the transition to cleaner energy.