South Africa hunts for U.K infrastructure investors

South Africa's Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Minister Zikalala, recently addressed the Global Africa Trade Conference in London, focusing on attracting international investment in South Africa's infrastructure projects. Minister Zikalala highlighted the country's efforts to engage with global investors and create opportunities for private sector participation in infrastructure development. He emphasized the importance of infrastructure as a key driver of economic recovery and growth in South Africa. The minister also discussed addressing concerns around procurement procedures and tender processes to make the investment environment more conducive for foreign investors. During his visit to London, Minister Zikalala presented a pipeline of projects in energy, water, transport, and rail network developments to potential investors. He outlined the government's commitment to implementing public-private partnerships to stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities. The minister underscored the significance of infrastructure financing to prepare projects for investment and make them bankable for interested parties. One of the key topics of discussion was the establishment of the infrastructure finance and implementation support agency announced in the medium-term budget. This agency aims to provide funding for project preparations, including feasibility studies and business plans, to attract foreign investment in infrastructure projects. Minister Zikalala highlighted the importance of policy reforms to create an enabling environment for foreign investors, with a focus on developing treasury regulations to streamline the investment process. In terms of potential market connections and partnerships, the minister acknowledged the UK's expertise in logistical systems, particularly in the rail sector. He emphasized the opportunities for collaboration in improving South Africa's rail infrastructure and leveraging the UK's experience in funding mega-projects. Minister Zikalala also expressed confidence in growing investor interest in key sectors such as energy, green hydrogen, and rail and logistics. The minister highlighted the positive responses from investors during his engagements in the UK, with commitments from various financial institutions eager to support South Africa's infrastructure projects. Energy generation, green hydrogen initiatives, and rail and logistics developments emerged as attractive sectors for potential investors. Minister Zikalala reiterated the government's commitment to fostering investor confidence and ensuring mutual benefits for both South Africa and its investment partners. Overall, the minister's visit to London aimed to showcase South Africa's infrastructure investment opportunities, address investor concerns, and secure commitments from international partners. Through strategic partnerships and policy reforms, Minister Zikalala is paving the way for increased foreign investment in key infrastructure projects essential for driving economic growth and development in South Africa.