As South Africa takes over the G-20 leadership on Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa aims to address Africa’s debt crisis, but faces the challenge of Donald Trump’s “America First” policies. Trump’s re-election has sparked concerns of higher U.S. interest rates, complicating African nations’ ability to manage their growing debt, which quadrupled to $462 billion between 2006 and 2022.
While South Africa will push for debt relief under the G-20’s Common Framework, it must also mediate between China and the U.S., especially as Trump heightens tensions with Beijing. Additionally, South Africa’s position on global conflicts like Gaza and Ukraine further distances it from U.S. policies, particularly after accusing Israel of genocide and maintaining neutrality on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Ramaphosa, during the G-20 summit in Brazil, emphasized the need for “equal treatment” in addressing climate change, development finance, and global inequality. He urged richer nations to collaborate in solving poverty and unemployment. However, Trump’s priorities could undermine these efforts, leaving Ramaphosa to balance delicate global alliances while pushing for reforms favorable to the Global South.
South Africa’s presidency will also highlight its calls for peace in long-standing conflicts, as Trump promises to resolve these wars swiftly, casting a shadow over future G-20 discussions. Ramaphosa’s leadership will therefore not only advance African interests but also engage in navigating Trump’s influence on global policies and tensions.
Meanwhile, Namibia has halted Starlink’s operations due to licensing issues, Ghana’s creditors agreed to early bond repayments ahead of elections, and Mozambique’s opposition leader has called for renewed protests over contested elections. In Nigeria, security forces are under scrutiny for excessive force in response to protests against rising living costs, with allegations of police shootings and cover-ups. Kenya has introduced a levy on park entry fees to support wildlife conservation efforts.
