Addis ababa: Experts and policymakers have emphasized the need to enhance Africa's role and partnership with the Group of 20 (G20) to effectively address the continent's key development priorities at the G20. They made the call on Monday during a G20-Africa high-level dialogue, which was organized by the Presidency of the G20 South Africa in collaboration with the African Union (AU) at the AU headquarters in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Alvin Botes, South Africa's deputy minister of international relations and cooperation, highlighted the need for global solidarity, equality, and sustainability, aligning with the theme of South Africa's G20 presidency. Botes emphasized the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which complements the slogan of Agenda 2030 and the United Nations sustainable development goals of leaving no one behind.

Francisca Tatchouop Belobe, AU commissioner for economic development, trade, tourism, industry, and minerals, noted that the theme of South Africa's G20 presidency is aligned with the AU's continental development vision. She positioned the G20 as a premier platform with the mandate and moral responsibility to lead in transforming the global financial architecture.

Under South Africa's presidency, the G20 has taken steps to elevate Africa's voice, creating opportunities for fairer access to finance. This initiative follows the African Union's inclusion in the G20 in 2023, which has outlined six key priorities over the next three years. These priorities include fast-tracking Agenda 2063, advocating for reform of international financial institutions, enhancing agricultural output, achieving a just energy transition, promoting trade and investment for the African Continental Free Trade Area, and boosting investment in vaccine manufacturing and pandemic response.