In a high-level panel held this week, Sherpas from the B20 Troika — Brazil, South Africa, and the United States — explored how the global business community can strengthen cooperation and drive inclusive economic growth. For Africa, the discussions marked another significant moment in elevating the continent’s role in global decision-making.
Africa’s Voice Strengthened Through B20 Leadership
Cas Coovadia, Sherpa for B20 South Africa 2025, opened the panel with reflections on South Africa’s leadership of the B20 — the G20’s official business forum. As Sherpa, Coovadia oversees the work of eight task forces and ensures that their policy recommendations are presented to the G20 presidency.
He highlighted the crucial support received from Brazil’s 2024 Sherpa, Constanza Negri, which enabled South Africa to establish a strong foundation for its presidency. Early awareness among African CEOs was limited, but a targeted engagement strategy rapidly mobilised participation from business leaders across the continent.
“The decision to put Africa at the centre of the B20 was the correct one. We have succeeded in putting the continent at the table of decision-makers.” — Cas Coovadia
The B20 South Africa 2025 cycle produced 30 actionable recommendations, emphasising energy transition, trade and investment, digital transformation, skills development, financing for development, and Africa’s integration into global value chains.
Continuity, Evolution, and Global Relevance
Constanza Negri noted that while the B20 recommendations build on Brazil’s previous work, they have also evolved to reflect changing global realities.
“We cannot be naive to think the content of recommendations will always remain the same. We must stay relevant.” — Constanza Negri
She emphasised that the B20 creates long-term cooperation opportunities between the private and public sectors, extending beyond annual political cycles. This continuity is critical for sustaining impactful growth initiatives.
US Perspective: Business as a Bridge in a Fractured World
With the United States set to host the next G20 Summit, Gary Litman — incoming Sherpa for B20 USA 2026 and Senior Vice President at the US Chamber of Commerce — stressed the role of business in maintaining cross-border relationships.
“American and African businesses share the same ambition: driving real economic growth and building resilient economies.” — Gary Litman
He commended South Africa’s leadership and highlighted the sophistication and ambition of African enterprises — a message that resonates strongly with Intradev Afrique’s mission of accelerating Africa’s transformation through innovation, trade facilitation, and strategic partnerships.
Global Challenges Need Global Solutions — With Africa at the Centre
Coovadia noted that issues historically associated with the global south — slow growth, inequality, and public dissatisfaction — are now widespread across advanced economies. This shift underscores the importance of global coordination.
“Africa has the arable land, mineral resources, and youthful population needed to drive global sustainable growth. If properly leveraged, Africa’s development benefits the whole world.” — Cas Coovadia
He emphasised the role of the B20 as a unique space where business leaders from the global north and south collectively shape economic policy, working closely with governments in a changing political-economic landscape.
News Source: https://african.business/
Intradev Afrique’s Outlook
At Intradev Afrique, we believe Africa’s increased presence in global forums like the B20 marks a turning point. As the continent’s businesses gain greater representation, the opportunities for trade, technology adoption, industrial growth, and cross-border investment expand considerably.
Our mandate — supporting African enterprises and governments with strategic market intelligence, digital innovation, and economic development solutions — aligns directly with the B20’s priorities.
We will continue to champion initiatives that elevate Africa’s role in global decision-making and enable our partners to participate meaningfully in these dialogue platforms.
As Africa’s voice rises in global policy platforms such as the B20, Intradev Afrique remains committed to providing the strategic frameworks, technology solutions, and market intelligence required to unlock continental growth.
Contact : Intradev Afrique
Francophone Africa HQ : +228 91 62 92 92
Ghana: +233 277 672981
Email: info@intradevafrique.com