Sub-Saharan Africa is entering a decisive decade for climate action and green growth. The region offers vast renewable energy potential and critical mineral resources essential for the clean energy transition. However, unlocking this potential requires large-scale investment that many countries cannot mobilise domestically. Gulf states, meanwhile, are emerging as important partners in climate finance. Their sovereign wealth funds, development banks, and private investors are increasingly drawn to Africa as part of broader economic diversification strategies, their commitments to climate action, and efforts to secure long-term food and energy security.
Convened by the Rihla Initiative for Green Economic Growth in partnership with the South African Institute of International Affairs and supported by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Pretoria, this event will examine how Gulf capital can accelerate Africa’s green transition, with South Africa as the entry point for regional scaling.
While Gulf financing spans the continent, certain countries have already emerged as front-runners. South Africa is increasingly seen as a hub for utility-scale renewable energy and green hydrogen, and its strong financial markets, infrastructure base, and policy frameworks make it a natural gateway for Gulf investment into the wider region.
- What are the main drivers behind Gulf financing in Sub-Saharan Africa, and how do they intersect with climate objectives?
- How can South Africa’s experience as a key country for Gulf-backed renewable energy and hydrogen projects inform wider regional strategies?
- Which financing and policy frameworks are best suited to deepen Gulf-Africa cooperation while ensuring inclusive and sustainable development?
Speakers
- Alex Benkenstein, Head: Climate and Natural Resources Programme, SAIIA
- Mehran Haghirian, Director: Rihla Initiative for Green Economic Growth
- Vuyiswa Hlongwane, Rihla Coordinator for Sub-Saharan Africa
- Kudakwashe Manjonjo, Rihla Sub-Saharan Africa Policy Council
- Humza Sheikh, Rihla Gulf Committee
- Jordan Mc Lean, Researcher: Climate and Natural Resources Programme, SAIIA
- Kirsten Pearson, Senior Researcher: Climate Finance, SAIIA
We look forward to your participation.
