Godongwana says SA's leave from G20 temporary setback

Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has told a World Economic Forum (WEF) briefing that South Africa’s leave from the G20 is a temporary setback.

Addressing a WEF press briefing on Thursday, Godongwana announced that South Africa would temporarily step aside from the G20 in 2026 as the United States (US) holds the presidency.

But he insists this decision is not because the US can chase South Africa away.

The relationship between the countries has been strained, with US President Donald Trump insisting on the baseless belief of a white genocide in the country.

South Africa has made the decision to take leave from the G20 in 2026 as the US holds the presidency, with Godongwana telling a WEF briefing that it's mainly because the US will not grant the country’s delegation accreditation.

But he insists this is temporary.

“2027, the presidency is going to be in the UK. I doubt if the UK will take a similar posture. So, it’s a temporary setback for 2026 only.”

Godongwana said South Africa’s footprint in the resolutions made will go beyond its presidency.

“The resolutions and decisions that are contained in the declarations extend beyond our presidencies, so our influence will continue.”

The country is gearing up to host the WEF’s special Africa summit in April 2027.