President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged global partners, particularly Japan, to move from giving aid to making investments in Africa. He delivered the message at the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD).
Speaking at the economic plenary session, Ramaphosa stated that Africa is ready to shape its own future and is seeking partners who believe in mutual growth and sustainable development, not just aid.
He outlined South Africa’s economic reforms, including stabilizing its energy supply, modernizing infrastructure, and opening its ports and rail networks to private investment. These efforts are part of a broader plan to re-industrialize the country with a focus on green energy, local production, and regional integration.
Ramaphosa highlighted key growth sectors for investment, such as electric vehicle manufacturing, green hydrogen, health products, and digital infrastructure.
He also emphasized the role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), positioning South Africa as a gateway for Japanese companies to access the entire African market. The country is working to finalize trade protocols for key industries like automotive, agro-processing, and pharmaceuticals to make continental trade easier and more efficient.