On Thursday, 24 July 2025, Agbiz attended the Y20 public engagement event titled “Rethinking International Solidarity after the U.S. Withdrawal” hosted at Dibukafé in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. The event, organised by the French Embassy and the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS), marked an important moment for global youth diplomacy and international cooperation, as South Africa prepares to chair the G20 in 2025.

The gathering featured keynote remarks by Thani Mohamed-Soilihi, the French Minister Delegate for Francophonie and International Partnerships, who underscored the importance of strengthening global solidarity in an increasingly fragmented international system. He called for a multilateral agenda that unites over 70 countries, anchored in peace, inclusion, and shared responsibility.

Professor Achille Mbembe, esteemed historian and political theorist from the University of the Witwatersrand, offered critical reflections on the historical underpinnings of international solidarity and the urgent need to reimagine global governance beyond war and domination. The discussion was enriched by youth voices, particularly from Y20 South Africa 2025 delegate, Tshegofasto Nxumalo, a B.A. graduate with a passion for human rights and social justice, involved with the Y20, and working on advancing human rights and social justice, who spoke powerfully on sustainability and the future of multilateralism.

Speaking to Agbiz at the event, Y20 South Africa President Raymond Matlala emphasised that his primary aim for convening dialogues of this nature is to "foster real, lasting change". He stressed the importance of creating inclusive and action-oriented spaces where young people can influence international policy frameworks and offer practical solutions to shared global challenges.

In alignment with Agbiz’s commitment to youth empowerment and inclusive dialogue, the organisation welcomed the opportunity to engage in high-level conversations around the role of young people in shaping a fairer, greener international order. Delegates echoed Minister Mohamed-Soilihi’s sentiment that the youth must not be sidelined in decision-making spaces. Instead, young leaders must be central to negotiations, especially on critical tracks such as climate action, sustainable development, and conflict resolution.

The event explored the potential of facilitative processes in fostering meaningful youth participation and driving inclusive multilateral outcomes. A key takeaway was the recognition that sustainable solutions require not only technical input but also platforms that value lived experience, collaboration, and diversity of thought.

As Agbiz continues its work across the agricultural and agribusiness sectors, participation in events like these reinforces our belief in the power of inclusive global governance and the importance of supporting platforms that elevate youth voices.

By Temba Msiza, Agbiz