KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has reaffirmed the province’s commitment to driving inclusive, equitable, and sustainable economic growth.
Delivering his keynote address at the opening of G20 2nd Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting, Ntuli emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts to tackle persistent global challenges, such as gender inequality in the workplace and widening labour income disparities.
Held from 8 to 11 April 2025, the meeting is focused on advancing gender equality in the workforce and addressing the growing gap in the labour income share, aligning with South Africa's G20 Presidency theme of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability."
“This platform offers us a chance to collectively reflect and develop progressive labour market policies that respond to the realities faced by women, youth, and vulnerable workers across both developed and developing economies,” Ntuli said.
The Premier stressed that meaningful transformation requires international solidarity and shared responsibility, highlighting that collaborative policymaking is essential for a fairer global labour market.
He also highlighted that KwaZulu-Natal is actively pursuing economic policies that centre people and planet, in line with global calls for just and inclusive transitions.
He outlined provincial initiatives aimed at reducing unemployment, improve women’s participation in economic activity, and ensuring sustainable, inclusive growth.
“As a province, we are committed to building a future of dignity, fairness, and equal opportunity. The EWG’s focus on gender equity and income justice could not be more relevant or urgent,” he said.
The EWG meeting brings together senior officials and technical experts from G20 member states to shape policy approaches, ahead of the G20 Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting, scheduled to take place later this year.
The key issues under discussion include, enhancing social protection systems, reducing gender and wage gaps, and ensuring equal access to decent work for all.
The G20, which includes 19 of the world’s largest economies along with the African Union and the European Union, represents approximately:
• 85% of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP),
• Over 75% of international trade,
• And two-thirds of the world’s population.
The meeting is taking place at the Arch Convention Centre, in Umhlanga, north of Durban. – SAnews.gov.za
