By Noko Mashilo
The first day of the Launch and Mid-Term Policy Dialogue opened with strong momentum, marked by broad-based support and inclusive participation. The event served as a critical platform for reflection, collaboration, and advancing shared priorities on social and economic development across Africa.
Messages of support were received from the Youth 20 (Y20) and Labour 20 (L20), affirming the importance of youth and labour voices in shaping transformative policy within the G20 framework. The dialogue also received the endorsement of South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), reinforcing the country’s commitment to multilateral engagement and African cooperation.
Importantly, the event brought together members of civil society from across the continent, whose presence and contributions grounded the discussions in community realities and citizen-driven solutions. Their active engagement helped to ensure that the dialogue reflected a diverse range of perspectives and priorities.
This is taking place at the prestigious Capital Hotel in Sandton, north of Johannesburg.
As delegates from across the world arrive, the hotel’s exterior has been transformed into a symbol of unity and purpose.
A vibrant display of national flags lines the Pandora halls 1, 2 and 3 offering a powerful visual representation of international collaboration and solidarity.
The branding around the venue, bold, inclusive, and rich in symbolism and also young pantsula dancers who entertained the audience underscored the event’s commitment to the G20 principles of equality, global partnership, and a sustainable future.
This launch marks a significant milestone for the C20’s role in influencing global policy, amplifying the voices of civil society, and ensuring that people and planet remain at the heart of the G20’s agenda.
As discussions unfold, the focus remains clear: to foster inclusive dialogue, champion equity across all nations, and steer global development in a direction that leaves no one behind.
The Sandton skyline now stands not just as a financial hub, but as a beacon of global cooperation and civic leadership.
The event commenced with a formal introduction of the C20 Apex leadership team by the First Deputy Chairperson, Gogo Sheila Mbele. Mbele acknowledged the dedication and efforts of the team in shaping the direction and success of the C20.
“Our Chairperson is Thulani Tshefuta,” she shared, “he is supported by three deputies, myself, Gogo Sheila Mbele, as the First Deputy Chairperson; Dr. Zukiswa Nzo; and Nonceba Majubajuba.”
She further introduced the Sherpa, Mabalane Mfundisi who is supported by two Sous-Sherpas, Terrance Mbanza and Roche Kester.
The objective of the three-day event, which began yesterday and will conclude tomorrow, 24 June 2025, is to formally introduce Civil Society South Africa as a collective movement for social justice and policy advocacy. The event also aims to facilitate dialogue on key socio-economic and governance issues affecting communities, establish strategic partnerships for sustained impact and community engagement, and develop a roadmap for civil society participation in policy and decision-making processes.
In support of C20, Y20 Sherpa, Levi Singh said as Y20, they are committed to the 14 Working Groups and the priorities they represent. “We would like to congratulate C20 for their achievements and the impact they have made. I also want to make you aware that we have 23 weeks remaining to ensure that our policy priorities and perspectives are sharply focused to advance the interests of the communities, movements, and constituencies we serve. Lastly, it’s important to note that the next time South Africa will host the G20 will be in 2044, making our efforts this year all the more significant,” said Singh.
In his speech, C20 chairperson, Thulani Tshefuta emphasized the need for strategic alignment and long-term vision. He stated that their work at C20 must align with South Africa’s National Development Plan, the Medium-Term Strategic Framework, Agenda 2063 of the African Union, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
“The challenge before us all is to rise above immediate obstacles and focus on these broader, long-term strategic development instruments.
Our strategic approach should reflect the fact that while there are 200 of us in this room, many more are following through various other platforms. We must truly act with purpose and unity to advance these shared goals,” said Tshefuta
