South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for collaboration with Nigeria to harness its lithium resources as part of efforts to advance the green energy transition and support the production of electric vehicle (EV) batteries.
Speaking on Tuesday at the Nigeria-South Africa Business Roundtable in Cape Town, Ramaphosa highlighted Nigeria’s vast lithium reserves as a critical resource for industrializing Africa’s EV sector. His remarks were shared in a statement by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
Ramaphosa urged private sector players and development finance institutions to invest in infrastructure and manufacturing capabilities to scale up green energy initiatives.
“Our two countries are well-positioned to benefit from the rapid growth of clean energy manufacturing industries. South Africa has developed a Just Transition Framework and Investment Plan that anticipates massive renewable energy and green economy investments,” he said.
Ramaphosa emphasized leveraging Africa’s natural resources for green industrialization, particularly in minerals processing. He also called for beneficiation of critical minerals at their source to maximize value and urged businesses to support these efforts.
Support for Nigeria’s G20 Membership Bid
Ramaphosa also expressed support for Nigeria’s bid to join the G20, promising to advocate for its inclusion. He made this pledge during the inauguration of South Africa’s presidency of the G20 in Cape Town, shortly before co-chairing the 11th Bi-National Commission (BNC) with President Bola Tinubu.
South Africa and the African Union currently represent the continent in the G20. Ramaphosa stressed the importance of admitting more African nations to amplify the continent’s voice in global economic discussions.
“We have a presence, and Africa will be the biggest growth story in years to come. Our population growth will make us a significant force, and we must ensure this influence is recognized within the G20,” he said.
The Nigeria-South Africa Business Roundtable and the BNC emphasized mutual benefits in clean energy, pharmaceuticals, and industrial cooperation, underscoring the need for robust partnerships to unlock Africa’s economic potential.
