This is Africa’s moment to lead – De Lille

G20

Cape Town – South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 is a significant milestone for the country and the African continent, according to Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille.

Speaking at the opening of the second G20 Tourism Working Group (TWG) meeting in Durban on Sunday, De Lille described the event as a “defining moment”, noting that the G20 nations represent 85% of the global economy, 75% of international trade, and 67% of the world’s population.

De Lille emphasised South Africa’s role in promoting Africa’s developmental agenda, aligning the country’s G20 theme of “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability” with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

She highlighted the commitment to tourism, innovation, and investment, saying that the G20 Presidency will provide opportunities for business collaboration and job creation, with over 130 related meetings scheduled across the country this year.

Key priorities for the Tourism Working Group include promoting people-centered artificial intelligence, enhancing tourism financing, improving air connectivity, and fostering sustainable tourism practices.

De Lille urged delegates to learn from best practices among G20 members and work toward actionable solutions.

In September, South Africa will host the G20 Ministers’ Meeting, focusing on tourism as a driver of economic recovery and green transformation.

De Lille called for collective efforts to develop a tourism policy framework that influences global economic and development policies.

Meanwhile, International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola is set to brief the media today on South Africa’s progress as the current president of the G20.

South Africa took over the presidency from Brazil in December 2024 and is preparing for the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025.

The briefing will cover the country’s achievements to date and the global context of its leadership, including economic challenges and geopolitical tensions.

It will also address South Africa’s response to rising trade disputes, particularly with the United States, and efforts to diversify its international trade partnerships.

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