G20 Summit Elevates DRC’s Peace and Development Agenda
G20 Leaders Meet in Africa for the First Time, Placing Peace and Development in the DRC at the Centre of Global Priorities
For the first time, the G20 Heads of State convened on African soil, gathering in Johannesburg, South Africa, on November 22–23, 2025, under the South African presidency.
Despite a boycott by the United States, leaders adopted a final declaration centred on solidarity, sustainability, and equality as the foundations for inclusive global growth.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), long affected by conflict in its eastern regions and burdened by structural economic challenges, was highlighted as a priority country for international efforts to promote peace and stability.
G20 leaders reaffirmed the need for all states to respect territorial integrity and sovereignty, emphasising that lasting peace is essential for development. The communiqué also referenced ongoing crises in Sudan, Ukraine, and the occupied Palestinian territories, underscoring the need for diplomatic solutions and sustained support.
Political stability, the declaration noted, remains a key prerequisite for attracting investment and fostering strong economic growth—particularly in fragile or conflict-affected nations.
The summit placed significant emphasis on the escalating impacts of climate change and natural disasters, which continue to impede development across vulnerable regions. For the DRC and other African nations, enhanced international support will be crucial to strengthen economic resilience, improve infrastructure, and bolster systems for prevention, preparedness, and post-crisis recovery.
High levels of debt, another major challenge to economic progress, were central to the discussions. The G20 committed to helping the DRC and other low- and middle-income countries address financial vulnerabilities by improving debt transparency and expanding access to strategic investments in education, health, and infrastructure.
Despite a backdrop of global geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, the G20 reaffirmed the importance of robust multilateral cooperation to support growth, reduce inequality, and advance sustainable development across Africa.
With members representing 85% of global GDP and two-thirds of the world’s population, the group underscored that peace and stability on the African continent are vital for global prosperity.
This landmark summit not only elevated Africa’s role in global decision-making but also placed the DRC firmly at the forefront of discussions—highlighting that peace, stability, and multilateral investment are essential to securing its long-term development and strengthening resilience across the continent.
