February 27 2025
South Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its global influence. With its G20 presidency, a seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), membership in the Finance in Common (FICS) alliance, and its recent removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) greylist, the country is in a prime position to shape international discourse. But influence is not just about policy and diplomacy – it is about perception, narrative, and the ability to tell a compelling story.
Now, more than ever, South Africa must amplify its storytelling efforts to solidify its global standing, drive economic growth, and ensure its voice is heard on the world stage.
The G20 Presidency: A Platform for Global Leadership
As the president of the G20 for 2025, South Africa has an unprecedented opportunity to highlight the priorities of the African continent. Over the course of the year, it will host approximately 130 working group meetings and 23 ministerial meetings, culminating in the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025.
This platform is not just about diplomacy, it is about shaping the world’s understanding of Africa’s potential. South Africa’s key G20 priorities – inclusive economic growth, food security, and AI-driven sustainable development – demand strong storytelling. The world needs to see Africa not as a continent of challenges, but as a hub of innovation, opportunity, and resilience. By strategically communicating success stories in industrialization, technology, and economic inclusion, South Africa can shift global narratives and attract investment.
A Stronger African Voice on the UN Security Council
Taking its seat as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, South Africa has a unique role in shaping global peace and security. Africa’s representation in the UNSC is critical, not only because one in four people will be African by 2050, but also because the continent remains central to many of the world’s security challenges, from Sudan to the DRC.
However, presence alone is not enough. South Africa must actively shape discussions, ensuring African perspectives drive global policy. Storytelling plays a vital role here – framing Africa’s security concerns not just as crises but as opportunities for sustainable peace and development. South Africa can lead by highlighting homegrown solutions, showcasing successful peacekeeping efforts, and advocating for more equitable global governance.
From Greylisting to Economic Resurgence
The country’s removal from the FATF greylist is another crucial milestone. It signals strengthened financial governance, transparency, and renewed investor confidence. Yet, without effective storytelling, this achievement risks going unnoticed. South Africa must take control of this narrative, positioning itself as an attractive investment destination with a stable financial system.
Finance in Common: A Seat at the Sustainability Table
South Africa’s membership in Finance in Common (FiC) aligns it with the world’s public development banks, a crucial platform for financing sustainable development. This is an opportunity to shape global financial flows towards Africa’s development priorities.
By strategically communicating its role in sustainable finance, South Africa can attract investment, drive economic transformation, and position itself as a leader in green finance and climate resilience.
Seizing the Moment
The next two years present a rare confluence of global leadership roles for South Africa. By embracing strategic storytelling, the country can reinforce its influence, reshape international perceptions, and drive both economic and diplomatic success. Now is the time to control the narrative and tell the world the South African story.