Ekurhuleni: Former Deputy President and co-convenor of the G20 Social Summit, Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, has issued a call to action to forge a new path for Africa while harnessing its natural endowments. Mlambo-Ngcuka was speaking during the opening ceremony of the summit held at the Birchwood Hotel in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng.

According to South African Government News Agency, Mlambo-Ngcuka emphasized Africa’s potential, citing its vast arable land and critical minerals as resources that should eliminate poverty and hunger. She highlighted the need for leadership across all sectors, urging governments, civil society, business, and institutions to take responsibility for the continent’s progress. She insisted that collaborative leadership is essential to developing the Africa that its people desire.

The summit draws together a range of networks, including youth movements, women’s organisations, faith-based groups, and community forums, to discuss global issues affecting daily life. Mlambo-Ngcuka stressed the importance of sustainable initiatives that Africans can implement independently while welcoming external support. The summit aims to ensure significant impacts on the African continent through self-reliant efforts.

Mlambo-Ngcuka also reflected on South Africa’s G20 Presidency and its commitment to inclusivity. She recalled President Cyril Ramaphosa’s promise during the Leaders’ Summit in Brazil to continue the Social Summit, emphasizing the value of civil society’s voices. She underscored the significance of the summit’s outcomes, which will be presented to President Ramaphosa, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile addressed the summit’s opening, urging global leaders to consider the far-reaching impacts of their decisions on humanity’s future. The summit aims to ensure that its resolutions contribute to sustainable development and long-term growth for Africa.