South Africa is looking forward to a boost in its hospitality sector, as support staff and families of the Group of 20 (G20) member countries are expected to attend over 130 meetings in the Leaders’ Summit next year.
This is according to Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who briefed the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, 4 December 2024.
On 1 December 2024, South Africa officially assumed the G20 Presidency from Brazil, becoming the first African country to lead the premier forum with the theme of ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability’.
“Hosting the G20 offers our nation an unprecedented opportunity to position South Africa as a global force for driving inclusive economic growth, employment, and reduced inequality in a sustainable manner,” Ntshavheni said.
The members of the G20 are Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States, the African Union and the European Union.
Ntshavheni said all provinces will benefit from hosting either the Ministerial or Working Group Meetings.
Following Brazil's example, Ntshavheni said South Africa will host the G20 Social Summit to encourage broader involvement of civil society and will introduce a new engagement group called, Township20 (TS20).
The Minister stated that the TS20 will showcase South Africa's township economies' creative, cultural, financial, and innovative strengths.
The initial meetings for South Africa's Presidency will include the first Sherpa and Finance Track meetings, scheduled from 9 to 12 December 2024 in Sandton.
The official website for South Africa's G20 Presidency was launched on Tuesday, featuring the King Protea as its logo. This national flower symbolises the country's identity, landscape, and cultural significance.
VIEW | G20 South Africa 2025
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO said the King Protea embodies resilience, cultural pride, hope, and natural beauty.
“The King Protea’s ability to regenerate after fires mirrors the country’s spirit of renewal and hope.
“The flower serves as a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always a chance for new beginnings. Just like the people of South Africa, who have faced historical struggles and triumphs, King Protea stands tall even in adversity,” the department said.
Cabinet has invited potential sponsors to partner with government in supporting the G20 in South Africa.
Interested parties are encouraged to submit their expressions of interest to g20sponsorship@dirco.gov.za. The deadline is 31 March 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
