JOHANNESBURG, S. Africa, Nov 20 – Global business leaders have presented 30 policy recommendations to the G20, focusing on Africa’s development, digital connectivity, access to capital, food systems, and education, as discussions intensify ahead of the annual leaders’ summit set for November 22–23.
The proposals were submitted through eight policy papers developed under the B20, the official business engagement arm of the G20, during its summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.
“We’ve made those recommendations to the G20. We’ve engaged with them but let’s see. It’s a difficult time for the world at the moment, but we’re pleased that businesses united to make these suggestions and indeed proposals,” B20 Head of Secretariat Dr Anthony Costa said.
International Finance Corporation (IFC) Africa Vice President Ethiopis Tafara stressed the urgency of unlocking private-sector capital to accelerate growth across the continent.
Tafara highlighted the need to invest in infrastructure, improve regulatory environments, and fast-track electrification, pointing to plans aimed at connecting 300 million Africans to electricity, particularly in underserved and unserved regions.
He added that the IFC is supporting African governments to reform financial and regulatory frameworks to create a more transparent and open business environment.
Tafara also encouraged the adoption of equity financing models to help build companies capable of solving structural challenges across African economies.
The recommendations will be tabled before G20 leaders as they deliberate on global economic priorities, with Africa’s development and digital transformation expected to feature prominently.
