South Africa Plans R1 Trillion Infrastructure Investment Boost

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasized infrastructure development as the key driver for economic growth and job creation, unveiling a plan to invest over R1 trillion in public infrastructure over the next three years. At a recent infrastructure symposium in Cape Town, Ramaphosa highlighted a new construction pipeline featuring around 250 projects valued at more than R238 billion, spanning sectors such as energy, roads, and water. The government aims to attract an additional R3 trillion from private sector investment, with reforms underway to simplify and accelerate public-private partnerships, particularly for projects under R2 billion. Ramaphosa described the initiative as a move from ideas to execution, positioning South Africa as an attractive destination for investors while addressing the country’s significant infrastructure backlog caused by years of underinvestment and mismanagement. The government plans to prioritize seven major projects, including port and water infrastructure, to support economic recovery and improve living standards. However, challenges remain in mobilizing private investment despite the substantial public funding and reform efforts.