South Africa Hosts Historic G20 Development Working Group Meeting on African Soil
By Jesselene Pandaram
The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) proudly hosted the Second G20 Development Working Group (DWG) Meeting from 14 to 16 April 2025 in Somerset West, Western Cape – marking the first time the DWG has convened on African soil. This historic gathering, held under South Africa’s G20 Presidency theme of Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability, brought together G20 member states, invited countries, and international organisations to tackle pressing global development challenges.
Opening the session, Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Ms Maropene Ramokgopa, urged delegates to focus on tangible action.
“Our task is not to produce text for its own sake, but to drive tangible progress,” said Minister Ramokgopa. “We must focus on catalytic, transformative outcomes that uplift the most vulnerable and reaffirm the G20’s commitment to solidarity, equality, and sustainability.”
A highlight of the engagement was a powerful visit to Robben Island, offering delegates a poignant reminder of South Africa’s long-standing commitment to justice, dignity, and unity in the face of adversity.
Delivering keynote remarks on Day 2, Deputy Minister Mohai, drew attention to the devastating impact of illicit financial flows.
“These flows deplete public resources, weaken institutions, and rob countries of the ability to provide healthcare, education, and safety nets,” said Deputy Minister Mohai. “Tackling them is not only a matter of economics – it’s about justice, trust, and dignity.”
He challenged delegates to adopt innovative, coordinated approaches to achieve lasting, equitable growth – particularly for countries of the Global South.
Director-General, Dr Robert Nkuna, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of development efforts that place people at the centre.
“Development means dignity, opportunity, and access for all,” said Dr Nkuna. “Our global development compact must serve the people — not just the system.”
Despite tight timeframes and logistical demands, the meeting concluded successfully, with delegates reaffirming the importance of international solidarity, bold action, and shared responsibility in building a more inclusive global future.
Preparations are already underway for the Third G20 DWG Meeting, which will be hosted in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, later this year. The Western Cape meeting has laid a strong foundation for future engagements, reinforcing South Africa’s commitment to global development that is truly inclusive, equitable, and sustainable.
The success of the meeting was underpinned by a committed team who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. The Department extends its appreciation to Josephilda Nhlapo-Hlophe – Chairperson of the G20 DWG; Chantelle van der Byl – Project and Event Lead; Jesselene Pandaram – Branding and Communications Lead; Tiyani Xivambu – Protocol Lead; as well as the broader DPME logistics, communications, security teams, service providers and stakeholders for their pivotal roles in ensuring a seamless, dignified, and impactful engagement.
ENDS.
