CAPE TOWN – President Cyril Ramaphosa has invited US President-elect Donald Trump to South Africa for a state visit during the country’s G20 presidency in 2024, despite concerns over Trump’s stance toward Africa.

Trump, who never visited Africa during his first term, is expected among 40 heads of state attending G20 meetings. As incoming G20 president after South Africa, the US will work closely with Ramaphosa in the leadership troika.

“Work will ensue in seeing how best that can be achieved, but we do expect him to attend as the United States is the next President of the G20,” Ramaphosa said, adding he might suggest rounds at South African golf courses for business discussions.

Ramaphosa remains committed to South Africa’s developmental G20 agenda despite Trump’s “America-first” approach, which has raised fears about potential cuts to African aid and trade benefits.

“All the wonderful decisions will rub off on those that will follow. So, I see very little room for any major break with what the G20 would have concluded,” Ramaphosa said.