"South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said his country had ensured the Global South had been heard during its presidency of the G20, during his New Year address on Wednesday. “We can stand proud as South Africans that the legacy of our G20 presidency is that we ensured that the voice of our continent, Africa, and the Global South is recognised, reflected upon, and respected,” he said, speaking from Pretoria. Ramaphosa also acknowledged ongoing domestic challenges, including high living costs, unemployment, and gender-based violence, but said there had also been much success in addressing them. “Our success in addressing these challenges includes working together in partnership between the government, business, labor, civil society, and every citizen committed to the future of our country,” he added. "I call upon the men of South Africa to respect and honour the young girls and the women of South Africa, and desist from gender-based violence and femicide, wherever you may be, across our beautiful land." The president highlighted key economic milestones, including the first sovereign credit rating upgrade in 20 years, eased inflation, a stronger Rand, and months without power cuts. “Rooting out corruption is our overriding priority,” the South African leader added, noting billions recovered by the Special Investigating Unit and progress against illegal mining and organised crime. He also announced over R1 trillion in infrastructure investment for the next three years to improve ports, rail, and other sectors. “Despite the challenges that we face, our country is getting stronger. Our economy is improving. As we prepare to welcome a new year, let us remain united in building the South Africa of our dreams,” he said. "