South African officials renewed their call for a balanced approach to energy transition on Tuesday, emphasizing that economic development and environmental protection must go hand in hand.
At the Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Mineral and Energy Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe stated, “We must be allowed to integrate the two,” stressing that Africa should not have to sacrifice its economy to preserve ecology.
Mantashe criticized the global imbalance in climate responsibilities, noting that while Africa contributes the least to global greenhouse gas emissions, it faces disproportionate pressure to decarbonize. He pointed out the unfairness of carbon taxes imposed on African countries while major emitters like the U.S., China, and Russia are not subject to similar penalties.
South Africa, which holds the G20 presidency until November, has used its term to advocate for financing solutions that support both climate goals and economic growth, under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.”
Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister in the Presidency, also highlighted that Africa’s energy transition must first address basic needs. With 600 million Africans lacking reliable electricity, he argued, “We transition, you don’t transition in darkness.” Ramokgopa stressed that the focus should be on lifting people out of poverty and creating jobs before engaging in higher-level energy debates.
The Africa CEO Forum, which concluded on Tuesday, brought together finance ministers, business leaders, and investors to discuss key investment strategies and development priorities across the continent.