Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called on South Africa and other African countries to leverage the international spotlight brought by the hosting of the G20 Leaders’ and Social Summits this week.

On Tuesday, Mashatile officially opened the three-day G20 Social Summit which brings together civil society voices and is the precursor to the two-day G20 Leaders’ Summit.

He said the gathering should be used to raise awareness, enhance accountability, and coordinate effective action. Mashatile further advocated for Africa to realise sustainable peace and stability and true independence, adding that instability has kept Africa on the economic backfoot.

“We believe it is time for Africa to advocate for lasting solutions and lasting peace and commitment to resolving conflicts through negotiated political settlement. When we achieve peace and political stability, we as Africans are better positioned to secure sustainable financing, debt relief, fairer trades and a stronger representation,” he said.

On the continent’s battle with inequality and other socio-economic challenges, he said:”We urge the international community to address the enduring and emergent obstacles to gender equality with renewed urgency, solidarity, and innovation.”

The opening address was also attended by co-conveners, former Deputy President Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka and Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, and other local and international leaders.

As the host, South Africa has called for an inclusive and collaborative G20 platform to amplify the voices of civil society, grassroots organisations, communities, and the continent.

The summit kicked off with a colourful cultural programme to set the tone for the coming days, with artists and delegates from all walks showing up to the three-day programme.

Amid calls for Africa to rise, Dr William Carew, representing the African Union’s Economic, Social and Cultural Council, called for an end to Africa’s inequalities.

“We are no longer content to be observers of our own destiny, but we are builders of a new global war….It is time for Africa to author its own narrative. Africa owns 30% of the world’s mineral reserves, possesses 60% of the world’s arable land and is home to the youngest population on Earth, and yet we remain on the periphery of global economic decision making.”

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is expected to give an address at the summit on Thursday-the Social Summit concept was started by Brazil when it hosted the G20 last year.

siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za

Source link