Johannesburg to host AU infrastructure Summit

SAnews.gov.za
  • 3 Hours Ago

South Africa will host the fifth session of the African Union’s committee on transport and energy next week, positioning the country at the heart of continental policy-making.


The summit, running from 27 to 30 April in Johannesburg, brings together technical experts and ministers to map out the future of African connectivity and power. Elizabeth Marabwa, chief director at the Department of Electricity and Energy, said the event highlights South Africa’s "leadership role in driving continental development."


"It positions South Africa at the centre of discussions that will shape infrastructure investment and policy across the continent," Marabwa said.


The agenda will focus on the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), alongside specific reforms for aviation, maritime, and rail networks. On the energy front, talks will pivot toward the African Single Electricity Market and emerging sectors such as green hydrogen.


Marabwa noted that while the talks are high-level, the goals are practical. "Better transport systems mean safer roads and improved trade. Stronger energy systems mean more reliable electricity... the outcomes directly impact service delivery and job creation."


The meeting concludes with a Ministerial Session on 30 April to adopt formal declarations. Originally established under the 1994 Abuja Treaty, the body was recently streamlined in 2024 to focus exclusively on transport and energy. It meets every two years to oversee the strategic integration of Africa’s infrastructure.