The Northern Cape hosted its first-ever G20 Planning Summit on 12 - 13 June 2025, marking a historic moment for inclusive, long-term development planning in South Africa. Held at Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley, the summit brought together national government leaders, academics, civil society, youth, and international development partners.

Themed “Charting South Africa’s Future: A Call for Collaborative Long-Term Planning as a Foundation for Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability,” the summit placed the Northern Cape at the heart of the national agenda in the lead-up to G20 South Africa 2025.

Premier Dr. Zamani Saul opened the summit by highlighting the importance of forging a shared national vision, grounded in local realities and global commitments. “It is here, in the provinces, where real development must happen,” he noted. “Planning for the long-term cannot remain a national task alone - it must be a collective, participatory effort.”

Sol Plaatje University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Prof Paul Green, echoed this sentiment in his message of support:

“It’s fitting that a summit on inclusive, long-term planning is held at an institution rooted in transformation and democratic ideals. As an anchor institution in the Northern Cape, SPU drives spatial transformation, innovation, job creation and economic growth. We are fully committed to collaborative development.

”The Summit’s first day saw distinguished voices reflect on South Africa’s development priorities, exploring the role of education, climate justice, economic resilience, and youth empowerment in shaping a just transition.

As the discussions continue, the G20 Planning Summit sets the tone for how provincial and national actors can align policy, planning and partnerships for a shared, sustainable future.