Deputy President Paul Mashatile said on Tuesday that a “fair, transparent, equitable, and inclusive” international order is essential for economic stability and sustained growth, noting that current global economic growth is subdued, with many economies, particularly in Africa, burdened by unsustainable debt levels, while billions are affected by underdevelopment, inequality, poverty, and unemployment.

Mashatile was speaking during the Think 20 (T20) Africa High-Level Dialogue, in Pretoria, where he explained that in pursuit of strengthening African agency within the G20 framework, African countries must re-emphasise the importance of collaboration, open dialogue, and collective action.

“I truly believe that a fair, inclusive global order is possible, but it requires leadership grounded in equity, responsibility, and cooperation. The G20 should form part of this as we seek to unite as country States and develop policies that are progressive for the interest of all,” he said.

He added that this would not only empower African States but also increase the credibility and efficacy of global governance.

Mashatile highlighted South Africa’s intention to work with “like-minded countries” and progressive institutions for a more equitable, representative, and just international order.

“As African nations, we have to come together and speak with one voice. We have to combine our strengths to guide policies and decisions that align with our interests and aspirations.

“Furthermore, we must engage constructively with our global partners within the G20, cultivating partnerships founded on mutual respect, understanding, and reciprocity. We can construct a more equal and inclusive global order that benefits all countries by bridging gaps and forging partnerships,” he explained.

Meanwhile, he pointed out that South Africa’s G20 Presidency had encountered significant changes in the landscape of global affairs, noting challenges facing multilateralism as a significant factor that was reshaping global dynamics and relationships.

He said South Africa should take a dim view and strongly discourage the erosion of multilateralism, as it posed a potential threat to global growth and stability.

Mashatile noted ongoing trade tensions, which he said may result in rising cost of living, owing to increased prices, particularly for manufactured goods, potentially exacerbating the sluggish economic growth across the continent.

“…it is necessary that we respond collectively and decisively as Africans while increasing capacity and capability to reduce dependency,” he said.

He highlighted that South Africa was acutely aware that war and conflict were innately detrimental to a nation's economy and its people, as evidenced by the country’s experience during the Apartheid era.

“Devastation of infrastructure, loss of life and labour, and disruption of trade networks significantly impact economic stability.

“Hence during our G20 Presidency, South Africa will persist in promoting constructive and peaceful resolutions, engaging in inclusive dialogue, which stands as the primary assurance for achieving sustainable and enduring peace,” he stated.

Mashatile said South Africa called for deeper G20-African Union collaboration in peace-building on the continent, including sustainable funding for AU peace operations and mechanisms aligned to the Silencing the Guns initiative.

“Strong institutions, regional integration and democratic accountability must guide our response to instability across the Sahel, DRC, and Horn of Africa,” he added.

He noted that South Africa had demonstrated a strong commitment in its foreign policy to principles such as justice, solidarity, equality, peace, and respect, all grounded in its dedication to human dignity.

He said South Africa’s G20 Presidency was poised to advocate for reforms within the global financial framework, emphasising the need for equitable credit rating systems, accessible climate financing, and substantial debt relief for nations with lower income levels.

He explained that during its Presidency, South Africa would also amplifying Africa’s strategic voice in a “fragmented world”.

“Africa’s economic and geopolitical profile is rising. Driven by the African Continental Free Trade Area and domestic economic resilience, forecasts indicate that Africa will be the second-fastest growing region globally, and it is expected to increase intra-African trade by over 50% by 2035, significantly boosting economic activity,” he said.

However, Mashatile noted that structural inequality, the cost of capital, climate shocks, and persistent marginalisation in decision-making forums jeopardised this growth.

“The T20 Dialogue is therefore a key platform to consolidate Africa’s intellectual leadership and develop strategic responses to these systemic challenges, ensuring Africa’s agency is proactive, not reactive,” he pointed out.