- The president says South Africa would use its abundant solar and wind resources to reach the forefront of the clean energy transition.
- The energy transition needs to take place alongside increased investment in smart, digital and efficient green technologies.
South Africa’s President, Cyril Ramaphosa, has called on the international community to support African countries to increase their renewable energy security. This was contained in the president’s weekly newsletter published on Tuesday, focused on the need to tackle climate change.
According to him, the transformation of the energy landscape in Africa is a priority. But the continent cannot do it alone and needs the support of more developed countries. President Cyril Ramaphosa noted that the energy transition needs to take place alongside increased investment in smart, digital and efficient green technologies. He said this must materialise in carbon-intensive sectors such as transportation, industry and electricity.
He explained that the move to low-carbon economies and societies must be just and inclusive, and it must also be appropriate to the country’s national circumstances and development plans. The president further disclosed that South Africa wants to use its abundant solar and wind resources to place the country at the forefront of the clean energy transition.
He added, “As African countries, we cannot be bystanders to our own development. We are putting the necessary measures in place to decarbonise our respective economies while pursuing sustainable development.”