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The African Union’s official entry into the G20 on Saturday marks a significant step towards enabling the continent to play an impactful role in addressing global challenges, according to Moussa Faki Mahamat, the head of the AU Commission.
Expressing his appreciation, Mahamat stated, “I welcome the African Union’s entry into the G20 as a full member. This membership, for which we have long been advocating, will provide a propitious framework for amplifying advocacy in favor of the continent and its effective contribution to meeting global challenges.”
The African Union, with 55 member states (although six junta-ruled nations are currently suspended), collectively boasts a GDP of $3 trillion and a population of approximately 1.4 billion.
Prior to this development, the G20 comprised 19 countries and the European Union, representing a substantial 85 percent of the world’s GDP, with South Africa as the sole African member.
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, present at the summit, expressed the continent’s anticipation of advancing its global aspirations through the G20 platform. He shared his thoughts on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Kenyan President William Ruto also emphasized the significance of this inclusion, stating that it would provide a voice and visibility to African interests and perspectives within this influential body.
“Africa, poised for significant growth in the coming years, will now have a seat at the table to shape G20 decisions and ensure the advancement of the continent’s interests,” President Ruto remarked.
Furthermore, President Ruto highlighted the AU’s commitment to advancing outcomes from the recent Africa Climate Summit, including vital reforms within international financial institutions and multilateral development banks. These reforms represent crucial elements that the AU will strive to promote within the G20 framework.
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