SACOFF applauds call at G20 Summit for debt relief for poor nations

A matter of particular significance and applause at the G20 Summit in South Africa last weekend was the call for debt relief for impoverished nations weighed down by unsustainable and unjust financial burdens, says the South African Community of Faith-Based Fraternals and Federations (SACOFF) in a media statement.

“Millions across the Global South remain enslaved not by military occupation but by economic chains. The call for debt restructuring and relief is not just a financial matter — it is a moral, humanitarian, and justice mandate,” said Pastor Bert Pretorius president of SACOFF.

SACOFF says in the statement tat it welcomes and strongly supports the announcement that SA will host the upcoming Debt Reform Summit, believing it presents a historic opportunity for collaborative African solutions and renewed global economic fairness,

“The future of Africa must not be one of dependency, but one of dignity. Divided, we fall — but united, we will rise, build, and succeed. Where there is team, there is conquest,” said Pretorius.

SACOFF says it will continue championing unity, ethical leadership, and the strengthening of faith–government partnerships for the sake of national and continental flourishing.

Congratulating SA for its hosting of the summit, SACOFF commended “the President of the Republic of South Africa, Cabinet Ministers, and the full Organising Committee for their steadfast leadership and successful hosting of critical diplomatic engagements during a highly pressured global moment”.

In an environment marked by heightened political tension, competing interests, and international scrutiny, the SA delegation displayed composure, strategic clarity, and principled resolve. The decisions taken were not easy, yet they were handled with dignity and prudence, reflective of a nation that understands both its sovereign responsibility and its continental influence, says the statement.

Pretorius said: “South Africa is home to many cultures, languages, and histories — and yes, as a diverse nation, we may debate and disagree as family. But when the moment calls for unity, South Africa stands shoulder to shoulder. We reject any narrative — local or foreign — that seeks to fracture our common identity or exploit our differences.”

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In the statement SACOFF also notes that “while constructive critique is part of democracy, several local and international voices attempted to derail or discredit national progress by magnifying division and painting SA with a single negative brushstroke. This does not reflect the true picture of our nation”.

SA continues to demonstrate resilience, innovation, and leadership on the African continent and beyond, says SACOFF.

“There is more good happening in South Africa than what is wrong. We continue to see integrity, progress, and partnership across sectors — from faith and community development, to education and economic reform,” said Pretorius.