For the first time in history, the G20 summit, a major gathering of the world’s biggest economies will take place on African soil.
World leaders will meet in Johannesburg, South Africa, on November 22 and 23, marking a significant moment for the continent.
Below are five important things to know as the summit approaches, especially amid rising global tensions and strained relations between South Africa and the United States.
1. A Historic First for Africa
The G20 was established in 1999 and is made up of 19 countries plus the European Union and the African Union. Although South Africa has long been the only African country in the group, this is the first time the continent is hosting the summit.
G20 members account for 85% of global GDP and nearly two-thirds of the world’s population, underscoring the importance of South Africa’s hosting role.
2. Theme: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”
South Africa has outlined several key priorities for its presidency, including:
Strengthening global disaster resilience
Supporting debt relief for low-income nations
Financing a fair transition to clean energy
Leveraging Africa’s critical minerals for shared economic growth
To address extreme global inequality, South Africa also commissioned a team of experts led by Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz. Their recommendations call for a global panel dedicated to fighting what they describe as an “inequality emergency” affecting billions.
3. US Boycott Over Tensions with Pretoria
In a major diplomatic shock, President Donald Trump announced that no US delegation will attend the summit, describing South Africa’s leadership role as a “total disgrace”.
Tensions have been high since Trump returned to office, with accusations of “white genocide” and the imposition of 30% tariffs— the highest against any sub-Saharan African nation.
Despite this, Pretoria insists the summit will be a success, describing the boycott as “America’s loss”. Argentina’s President Javier Milei, a Trump ally, will also be absent, sending his foreign minister instead. Russian President Vladimir Putin is likewise not expected to attend.
4. Spotlight on Johannesburg
The summit will be held at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, located near the historic Soweto township. The venue is symbolic of efforts to bridge social and spatial inequality in the post-apartheid era.
Johannesburg, once built around a booming gold rush, now faces: Failing infrastructure, Poor service delivery and Chronic governance issues
The attention drawn by the summit has renewed pressure on authorities. In July, the African Development Bank approved a $139 million loan to support infrastructural upgrades.
5. End of a “Global South” Streak
South Africa’s presidency concludes a run of G20 leadership by Global South countries; Indonesia, India, Brazil, and now South Africa.
The United States takes over next. Trump has already suggested he will significantly scale down the G20’s scope and has openly questioned South Africa’s relevance in the group, raising concerns about the forum’s future direction.
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