Later this year, the G20 Leaders’ Summit will land on African soil for the first time, with South Africa becoming host for the 2025 edition. Young global citizens and changemakers are watching closely, as the Global South steps into the spotlight with a push for solidarity, equality and sustainability.
In an exclusive interview with CGTN’s Cui Yingjie, Sindisiwe Chikunga, South Africa’s Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, outlined the summit’s priorities. “We want solidarity that bridges continents,” she says. “Equality that lifts every woman and young person. And sustainability that secures our planet’s future.”
Care economy: Chikunga highlights the often-overlooked care economy—roles from early childhood education to elder support—as a powerhouse for economic growth and social resilience. Investing here, she argues, unlocks job opportunities for women and stabilizes communities.
Financial inclusion: With nearly half of Global South adults lacking access to formal banking, the minister calls for innovative finance solutions. Mobile money platforms and community-led credit schemes can bring millions into the economic fold, empowering entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Gender-based violence: No woman should be left behind, Chikunga insists. She urges concrete commitments to combat gender-based violence, from tougher laws to expanded support services, ensuring safe and enabling environments for women across G20 and beyond.
As the world watches, Africa’s G20 moment is more than a summit—it’s a chance to rewrite the rules of global governance. For the next generation of activists, entrepreneurs and thought leaders, it’s an invitation to step up, demand inclusion and drive real-world impact.
“This summit is our opportunity,” Chikunga says, “to ensure that solidarity, equality and sustainability are not just buzzwords, but guiding principles for a fairer world.”
Reference(s):
Solidarity, equality and sustainability – Africa's G20 moment
cgtn.com
