President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday announced that the European Union (EU) will invest an additional €11.5 billion to support South Africa’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
Speaking in Brussels after bilateral talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Ramaphosa said the investment package would accelerate the country’s just transition, create jobs, and strengthen supply chains across Africa.
“This investment will help to build the economy of the future in the South Africa of the present,” Ramaphosa stated, noting that the package includes support for critical minerals, e-battery production, green hydrogen, renewable energy, and vaccine development.
The announcement builds on commitments made during the South Africa–EU Summit in Cape Town in March, where both parties agreed to establish a Clean Trade and Investment Partnership aimed at advancing cooperation in clean energy, technology transfer, and sustainable industrial growth.
South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Investment Plan, supported by the EU, Germany, France, the UK, and the US, outlines a multi-billion-dollar roadmap to modernize infrastructure, expand renewable energy, and promote green industries while ensuring a fair transition for affected workers and communities.
The EU remains South Africa’s largest foreign investor, accounting for 41% of total foreign direct investment. Over 2,000 EU companies operate in the country, supporting more than 500,000 jobs.
Ramaphosa said the new investment would deepen the strategic partnership and bolster Africa’s role as a hub for clean global production. He also welcomed the EU’s backing for South Africa’s upcoming G20 Presidency, which will prioritize solidarity, sustainability, and global governance reform.
Von der Leyen is expected to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg next month.
Source:Africa Publicity
