NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 18 – The African Union (AU) has participated in the G20 summit this week in Rio, Brazil, for the first time since becoming a permanent member in 2023.
The two-day summit, which started today and ends tomorrow, brings together leaders from the world’s largest economies.
The AU seeks to shape discussions on critical global issues, including debt distress, climate finance, inequality, and international taxation.
The union will also use the platform to advocate for fairer and more inclusive global tax systems, equitable energy transitions, and affordable climate finance solutions.
“Representing 85% of global GDP, over 75% of international trade, and two-thirds of the world’s population, the G20 wields unparalleled influence in global policymaking,” read a statement from the event organizers.
The summit will also set the stage for the 2025 G20 summit, to be held in South Africa, which will assume the G20 presidency from Brazil that year.
Jason Braganza, Executive Director of the African Forum and Network on Debt and Development (AFRODAD), highlighted the significance of South Africa’s presidency for addressing Africa’s debt crisis and championing comprehensive reform.
“The handover of the G20 presidency from Brazil to South Africa marks the end of an era. South Africa’s presidency will be the last under a developing country. This is particularly significant as, for the first time, the African Union Commission is participating as a full G20 member,” Braganza stated.
ACET President & CEO Mavis Owusu-Gyamfi stated, “I look forward to seeing the African Union reinforce these priorities at this week’s G20 meeting, and I strongly encourage other G20 members to work with them to create a truly global financial system that works for us all. Indonesia, India and Brazil laid a strong foundation during their G20 Presidencies; it is now up to South Africa to take up this mantle and move us forward, together.”
