Ramaphosa elevates Africa’s role at BRICS summit in Kazan

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Lagos – South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has emerged as a leading voice for Africa during the 16th BRICS Summit, held in Kazan from October 22-24, 2024. Ramaphosa’s speech underscored the need for deeper cooperation within the bloc to promote multilateralism and reshape the global economic order, ensuring greater representation for the Global South.

Addressing leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and newly invited members such as Egypt and Ethiopia, Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of fostering trade through national currencies to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar. “This shift is critical to building financial resilience and reducing the constraints imposed by global financial institutions,” he emphasized​.

The South African leader also stressed the importance of inclusive economic growth and climate action. Ramaphosa called for greater investments in African infrastructure and trade, promoting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a vehicle for integration. “With AfCFTA, we can unlock Africa’s potential as a trading hub, fostering cross-border commerce and attracting global investors,” he stated​.

Ramaphosa also championed a just energy transition, urging industrialized nations to fulfill their climate commitments. “Developing countries, particularly in Africa, are bearing the brunt of climate change despite contributing the least to global emissions. Our transition to a low-carbon economy must be equitable,” he said, advocating for sustainable development without exacerbating global inequality​.

The summit, which also focused on the expansion of BRICS to accommodate more members from the Global South, positions Africa at the forefront of shaping a new multipolar world order. “BRICS must become an engine of shared prosperity and a platform for sustainable growth,” Ramaphosa concluded, setting the tone for South Africa’s upcoming G20 presidency in 2025 under the theme of “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainable Development”​.

With Africa increasingly asserting itself on the global stage, Ramaphosa’s leadership at the summit underscores a growing recognition of the continent’s strategic importance. His message of unity and cooperation highlights Africa’s readiness to play a pivotal role in shaping a more inclusive, equitable global economy.