Africa’s Green Economy Summit 2026 set to turn policy momentum into green investments

Africa’s Green Economy Summit 2026 opens next week at a critical juncture for South Africa’s economic trajectory. The gathering follows the recent State of the Nation Address by Cyril Ramaphosa and comes just ahead of the National Budget Speech.

The timing places the spotlight firmly on delivery. With infrastructure reform, energy expansion and water security back on the national agenda, the summit aims to convert policy momentum into investable green projects.

Reforms across energy, water and logistics were highlighted in SONA as essential to restoring growth and competitiveness. Expanding generation capacity, stabilising water systems and enabling stronger private-sector participation have been identified as urgent priorities.

For leaders convening at AGES 2026, the shift from ambition to execution presents both pressure and opportunity. The focus is now on accelerating resilient, green infrastructure investment that can unlock long-term growth.

Turning ambition into investable projects

“Africa’s Green Economy Summit coincides with a critical moment on our continent,” said James Vos of the City of Cape Town. He pointed to the dual challenge of meeting surging energy demand while confronting climate change risks.

With the National Budget Speech scheduled for 25 February, the summit’s discussions are expected to closely examine how fiscal policy can reinforce infrastructure delivery. Organisers say the event will also explore ways to crowd in private capital and strengthen South Africa’s green growth pathway.

AGES 2026 is positioning itself as an implementation-focused platform. Conversations will centre on unlocking bankable opportunities, supporting green entrepreneurs and mobilising capital for clean energy and sustainable infrastructure.

Shameela Soobramoney of the National Business Initiative stressed that environmental sustainability and economic progress must advance together. The summit’s framework is built on the idea that green transition and economic competitiveness are deeply interconnected.

Western Cape pushes green growth agenda

South Africa’s positioning as a gateway for green investment in Africa is becoming clearer as public and private priorities align. However, stakeholders emphasise that success will depend heavily on sustained collaboration and disciplined execution.

The Western Cape is also reinforcing this growth narrative. Wrenelle Stander said Wesgro continues to focus on attracting investment into export-priority sectors such as green energy and manufacturing.

Reinforcing its continental mandate, Africa’s Green Economy Summit 2026 is hosted by the African Union with support from Global Affairs Canada and the Global Green Growth Institute. The collaboration aligns the summit with broader efforts to accelerate climate and nature finance across Africa.

The event also highlights growing private-sector participation. Title Sponsor Sanlam Investments and Gold Sponsor Standard Bank underscore the increasing role of capital markets in driving the continent’s green transition.

Additional partners include the Coega Development Corporation, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the Development Bank of Southern Africa and the Gauteng Economic Development Department.

“The 2026 AGES represents exactly the kind of platform Africa needs,” said Soneni Phiri, noting the summit’s role in turning climate ambition into bankable reality.

Hosted by VUKA Group, Africa’s Green Economy Summit 2026 will bring together policymakers, investors and innovators with a shared goal: moving from discussion to delivery in Africa’s green transition.