Image: ln24SA
Ramaphosa calls on BRICS to support African-led peace, security, and industrialization efforts
At the BRICS Summit 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a keynote address emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and equitable global order, while reaffirming Africa’s growing role in the multipolar world.
“We are gathered here not merely to challenge outdated power structures,” Ramaphosa said. “We are here to shape new pathways of global cooperation ones that place development, dignity, and sovereignty at the center.”
Speaking before fellow leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and an expanded group of BRICS members and partners, Ramaphosa positioned Africa as a strategic pillar in the future of global governance, citing the continent’s demographic momentum, natural resources, and innovation potential.
Africa’s Role in a Changing World
Ramaphosa highlighted that by 2050, one in four people on the planet will be African, and that any attempt to build a fair global system must include African-led voices, solutions, and institutions.
“Africa is not seeking charity,” he said. “We are seeking partnership one based on mutual respect and long-term investment.”
He called on BRICS to strengthen its support for:
Peace and security frameworks led by the African Union
Continental industrialization and infrastructure development
Skills development, innovation, and digital transformation
Ramaphosa also endorsed closer South-South cooperation, praising BRICS for helping elevate the Global South’s voice in multilateral institutions like the UN, WTO, and World Bank.
A Platform for Reform
The President described BRICS as a “vehicle for reforming unjust systems”, pointing to its efforts to promote:
De-dollarization and local currency trade
Expansion of the New Development Bank (NDB)
Equitable access to green technologies and climate finance
Ramaphosa urged BRICS to become a “bridge-builder” between emerging and developed economies, and to avoid replicating the power imbalances it seeks to challenge.
“This moment is not just about rejecting what has failed,” he said. “It is about building what is possible together.”
Strategic Timing
The address came amid growing interest in Africa’s role within global power realignments. With several African nations Nigeria, Uganda, and Egypt joining BRICS either as full members or official partners, the continent is poised to play a more prominent role in shaping the BRICS agenda.
South Africa, the only original African member of BRICS, has long positioned itself as a gateway to the continent for trade and diplomacy. Ramaphosa’s message was well-received by summit delegates, many of whom echoed similar calls for reform and unity.
Conclusion
As BRICS expands its membership and influence in 2025, President Ramaphosa’s remarks served as a timely reminder: any new global order must be built not just for Africa but with Africa at the table.
Get the latests of our Loveworld News from our Johannesburg Stations and News Station South Africa, LN24 International
