By JoAnne Wadsworth, Communications Consultant, G20 Interfaith Forum.
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On February 17, 2025, during the opening session of the G20 Interfaith Forum pre-meetings at the Future Africa Centre at the University of Pretoria, South Africa, Deputy Minister of Social Development, Prof. Muhammed Haron, delivered a powerful address. The meeting, titled “Optimizing Religious Input into the South African G20 Process,” brought together religious leaders, academics, and civil society representatives to discuss South Africa’s G20 Presidency themes: Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability.
Faith in Times of Uncertainty
Prof. Haron began by emphasizing the crucial role of faith communities in today’s world. “Voices of faith are essential to bring order, peace, and stability to our world,” he stated. He acknowledged the extraordinary acts of courage and love demonstrated by faith communities across South Africa, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely impacted vulnerable populations.
The Deputy Minister highlighted how churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples have been instrumental in advancing social and economic development throughout the country. He specifically noted their contributions to strengthening families, supporting education, and developing skills for youth—even in the face of climate-related disasters and social challenges.
South Africa’s G20 Presidency and National Development
Prof. Haron outlined South Africa’s ambitions for its G20 Presidency in 2025, emphasizing the themes of Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability. “We want to deepen our partnership with faith communities to address development challenges confronting the global community,” he said.
He candidly addressed the ongoing challenges facing South Africa three decades after its democratic transition in 1994: “We are only 30 years into our democracy,” noting persistent issues of race, poverty, development, landlessness, and racial, class, and gender divides. Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism about the country’s progress.
The Unity Government and National Dialogue
The Deputy Minister provided context on South Africa’s current political landscape, explaining that the country now operates under a unity government “not dominated by one movement.” He described how different ideologies now work together while subscribing to the values of the liberation struggle, acknowledging that this inclusive approach was “unexpected but now a reality.”
“As Mandela articulated, unity is difficult, but necessary,” Prof. Haron reminded the audience, emphasizing the importance of national dialogue in South Africa’s continued development. He envisioned a future where “South Africa will be governed by a people’s parliament” and called for the interfaith community to support this process: “Pray for South Africa. Give us guidance. Lead us.”
Critical Challenges Requiring Faith Community Engagement
Prof. Haron identified three critical challenges where faith communities could make significant contributions:
- Eradicating Poverty: He reported that 38 million out of 62 million South Africans rely on government grants for meals, stating “a nation cannot be built on grants; people need to transition to productive work.” He acknowledged the interfaith community’s effectiveness in feeding the hungry while calling for alignment with government policies and a focus on nutritious meals. The government is considering a universal income grant of 1,000 rand per month as one potential solution.
- Addressing Gender-Based Violence: The Deputy Minister described gender-based violence as a “state security issue” where current efforts have failed. He called on faith leaders to help reverse this trend and encouraged initiatives to strengthen fatherhood and family stability, noting some progress in gender parity in political representation.
- Tackling Unemployment: Prof. Haron briefly mentioned the severe unemployment crisis facing the country, indicating this would require further discussion and collaborative solutions.
Ubuntu and the Vision for Africa
Throughout his address, the Deputy Minister emphasized the concept of Ubuntu—the African philosophy of interconnectedness and shared humanity. “Unite around our differences—don’t be destroyed by them,” he urged, calling on South Africans of all faiths—Muslims, Jews, Christians, and others—to unite behind a common vision.
He spoke movingly about Freedom Park, the venue for the final day of the pre-meetings, describing it as “a monument to our country’s freedom and democracy, founded on the values of Ubuntu” that “tells the story of how far we have come as a nation.”
Looking beyond South Africa, Prof. Haron shared his vision for a “United States of Africa” that would be “stronger than the European Union and the Commonwealth of Nations.” He emphasized the need for practical collaboration that extends beyond South Africa to countries worldwide.
In conclusion, the Deputy Minister called on faith leaders to play their role in advancing social cohesion, answering difficult questions, and confronting national realities. “Pull together around South Africa’s G20 presidency to build a peaceful and secure world,” he urged, asking for support and prayers to make South Africa’s G20 presidency successful in 2025.
“This country belongs to all people, Black and White,” he concluded, echoing South Africa’s constitutional vision and calling for unity in pursuing the goals of the G20 under South Africa’s leadership.
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JoAnne Wadsworth is a Communications Consultant for the G20 Interfaith Forum Association and Editor of the Viewpoints Blog.