The Lead: SA’s high stakes G20 and whiplash from Washington

The episode of 'The Lead' podcast focuses on the historic first G20 Heads of State Summit in Africa, hosted in Johannesburg, South Africa, over the weekend. Breaking news reveals a U-turn by the Trump administration, initially boycotting due to false claims of 'extermination' of white farmers, now expressing willingness to participate in some form, with ongoing discussions. President Cyril Ramaphosa views this positively, emphasizing engagement over boycotts. Johannesburg has undergone visible cleanups—fixing streetlights, potholes, and grass, while clearing homeless camps—for the event, drawing criticism for not sustaining such efforts daily; the government defends it as a benchmark for future improvements. Political journalist Amanda Cora discusses the city's preparations, the MK party's opposition as routine anti-government posturing, and absent leaders: US (full boycott), China (prime minister attending), Mexico, Argentina, and Russia (due to ICC warrant on Putin). South Africa aims for a G20 declaration on key issues like debt and climate, negotiating consensus without the US, potentially issuing a joint statement from attending nations. Ramaphosa remains defiant against US bullying, prioritizing respectful engagement and proceeding with the summit. The episode highlights South Africa's economic green shoots, including removal from the FATF gray list and a recent 25 basis point repo rate cut by the Reserve Bank. In the B20 (Business 20) segment, US Chamber of Commerce VP Gary Litman praises South Africa's sophisticated business ambitions and global potential, contrasting sharply with Trump's political stance; many US businesses attend despite the boycott. A memorandum of understanding on critical minerals was signed between South Africa and the EU. The handover to the US for the next G20 in Florida is uncertain, with South Africa planning a symbolic phone call or requiring US officials to collect the declaration in Pretoria. The episode ends with a historical anecdote about a reckless biker and promotions for related content.