CAPE TOWN, South Africa (Bantu Gazette)— South Africa’s G20 presidency in 2025 presents a key opportunity to drive investment into Africa’s energy sector and influence global economic and energy policies, according to a media release by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) on Wednesday.
As Africa’s most industrialized nation, South Africa can leverage its leadership role to advocate for increased energy financing, particularly for natural gas projects, which are critical for the continent’s energy security and economic growth.
While renewable energy expands across Africa, coal, oil and natural gas remain essential to meet growing demand.
The AEC said natural gas, considered a cleaner transitional fuel, has attracted significant investment from G20 nations.
According to the statement, financing from institutions such as the U.S. Export-Import Bank, U.K. Export Finance, and Japan Bank for International Cooperation has supported major projects like TotalEnergies’ $20 billion Mozambique LNG development.
Additional investments from Italy’s Eni, Norway’s Equinor and ExxonMobil highlight the role of G20 countries in Africa’s gas industry.
Beyond fossil fuels, South Africa’s experience with large-scale energy projects, including its Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Program, can serve as a model for blending gas and renewable energy investments.
Encouraging mixed financing could help Africa meet its energy needs while transitioning toward greener alternatives.
South Africa can also push for improved financing conditions, such as debt relief or concessional loans, to help African nations invest in energy infrastructure.
Collaborating with institutions like the World Bank and BRICS Bank could further unlock critical funding.
“With South Africa’s G20 presidency presenting a unique opportunity to secure crucial investments in Africa’s energy sector,” the AEC said the 2025 African Energy Week in Cape Town will play a crucial role in fostering discussions among G20 nations, financial institutions and energy stakeholders to secure Africa’s energy future.
