Trump Can Keep His America; We Keep Our South Africa, they say

As South Africa prepares to host the G20 Summit, a striking message has taken hold across the country. Many South Africans are not disappointed that United States president Donald Trump will not attend.

Instead, they say they are relieved. The phrase that now captures the public mood has been repeated on radio shows, in community forums, and across social media: ''Trump can keep his America; we keep our South Africa.''

For many officials and analysts, the sentiment is understandable. While the government remains polite in its formal statements, several planners involved in the high-level event say the atmosphere has become noticeably lighter.

Organisers no longer need to brace for sudden shifts in tone or last-minute political drama that often follow Trump at major international gatherings. Without that looming uncertainty, South Africa believes the summit can stay more focused on its strategic goals.

These goals are central to the identity of South Africa’s G20 presidency. They include new approaches to development financing, fairer reform of the global financial system, clean energy transitions, improved support for vulnerable economies, and a stronger voice for the Global South. Officials believe these priorities will receive more attention with Trump absent, since past summits have sometimes seen United States controversies overshadow the agenda.

Political observers say this absence offers South Africa a rare chance to guide the global conversation without being drowned out by American headlines. It creates space for Pretoria to deepen cooperation across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Europe, and to elevate issues that matter most to developing nations. Some analysts have even described the moment as an opportunity to show the world that South Africa can lead with confidence and stability.

Public opinion has been far more candid than official statements. Many South Africans still remember Trump’s past comments about African countries, and they say his absence removes a source of tension. “This summit will feel more respectful and more serious without him,” said one commentator online, repeating the now familiar slogan that celebrates national pride.

Experts caution that the United States remains influential, and its empty chair will be felt in economic discussions. Even so, many South Africans believe Trump’s decision has simplified the path forward. God bless South Africa.