The curtain has risen on a new act in the theatre of global geopolitics with the African Union (AU) taking its rightful place as a permanent member of the G20. It’s a transformative shift, symbolizing the dawn of an era where Africa’s roaring voice won’t just echo but will lead some of the most critical global dialogues.
U.S. President Joe Biden remarked on this monumental addition to the G20 as “a long time in coming.” The warm embrace between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the AU chair, Comoros President Azali Assoumani, was not just a physical gesture but a poignant indication of the world welcoming Africa’s diversified power.
With Africa at the heart of pivotal discussions ranging from climate change, food security to migration, the question has shifted from “Why Africa?” to “What took so long?” The continent’s demographics alone speak volumes. Projected to house a quarter of the world’s population by 2050, Africa’s young, vibrant demographic stands as a testament to its growing influence.
The AU’s journey into the G20 is a salute to the relentless efforts of African leaders, like Senegal President Macky Sall, who have been vying for this inclusion for seven years. They’ve consistently emphasized the importance of reimagining the roles of African nations in global bodies that still bear traces of a post-World War II order.
But this isn’t just a seat at the table; it’s about reshaping the very table itself. The global financial system, often criticized for being inequitable towards Africa, will now witness first-hand the aspirations and needs of a continent that is courting diverse global partners beyond its traditional allies.
Africa, while cast in the shadows of conflicts and crises, has emerged as a broker of peace, evident in its mediation efforts post Russia’s Ukraine invasion. Its role in the G20 isn’t merely symbolic; it’s a testament to Africa’s growing stature as a powerhouse on the global stage.
And what might Africa contribute to the G20?
A burgeoning free trade area, an unmatched wealth of renewable energy assets, and a treasure trove of minerals pivotal for renewable and low-carbon technologies. With over 60% of the world’s renewable energy assets and the capability to combat climate change more effectively than any other continent, Africa is poised to be the lynchpin in many of the G20’s future strategies.
It’s no longer about foreign entities reaping the profits of Africa’s vast resources. The continent is clamouring for industrial development, seeking to turn its rich natural assets into tangible economic benefits for its populace. The fervour displayed by African leaders, like Kenyan President William Ruto at the Africa Climate Summit, underpins this ambition. Their demand for fair treatment by global financial institutions and richer nations’ commitment to climate financing can no longer be side-lined.
The road ahead is challenging. Finding a united voice amidst the vast diversity of the African Union’s member states won’t be straightforward. Yet, their collective resilience shown during the COVID-19 pandemic, in standing up against vaccine inequities, proves that when Africa unites, the world listens.
With India championing the inclusion of the AU in the G20, New Delhi’s priorities reflect a broader vision of a world where nations walk hand-in-hand, in stark contrast to China’s ‘debt diplomacy’. By viewing nations as equal partners, India envisages a world order built on mutual respect, shared goals, and long-term collaborations.
Africa’s induction into the G20 is not just a membership; it’s a statement. A declaration that the world acknowledges Africa not as a spectator but as a key player, steering global narratives. As the African sun rises on the G20 horizon, it’s evident that Africa’s time is now.
