Seeds of Opportunity: The African Growth Series
November 2024 | Issue 1
In this week's issue, you will learn more about:
- AFRICA OPPORTUNITY: Digital Transformation in African Manufacturing
- Africa Opportunity: Sustainability is Shaping South Africa’s Chemical Industry
- AFRICA TREND: Middle Eastern Investment in African Mining
- AFRICA TREND: Africa’s Green Investment Shift is Accelerating
- UPCOMING EVENT: Critical Minerals Africa Summit 2024 | Cape Town, South Africa
- UPCOMING EVENT: Africa’s Green Economy Summit 2025 | Cape Town, South Africa
AFRICA OPPORTUNITY: Digital Transformation in African Manufacturing
African manufacturers are embracing digital technologies like AI, IoT, and automation to boost efficiency and stay competitive. The global smart manufacturing market is projected to grow at a staggering CAGR of 27% from 2024 to 2031, opening up significant opportunities for African industries to modernise their operations. Companies investing in this shift can enhance productivity while contributing to sustainability goals.
Africa Opportunity: Sustainability is Shaping South Africa’s Chemical Industry
South Africa, Africa’s largest chemical producer, is on a growth trajectory with rising global exports. However, as environmental concerns take centre stage, the industry faces disruptions. In response, businesses are embracing greener practices and innovative solutions to stay competitive and compliant with regulations.
The South African government is implementing initiatives to assess chemical and waste management, pushing for sustainability through stricter measures and industry partnerships. With this shift, opportunities are emerging, including using digital technologies to optimise logistics and reduce waste.
The future of South Africa’s chemical industry lies in balancing growth with sustainability.
AFRICA TREND: Middle Eastern Investment in African Mining
Gulf states have invested over USD 100bn in Africa for the past decade. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have each invested USD 25.6bn and USD 59.4bn, respectively. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are increasing investments in Africa as part of their Vision 2030 (Saudi Arabia) and 'We the UAE 2031' (UAE). These strategies aim to decrease their reliance on petroleum as a growth driver. Given critical minerals' rising importance, mining is expected to receive much of this investment. Examples showing this include Saudi-based Manara Minerals buying a stake in First Quantum Minerals' Zambian operations, the UAE-based International Resources Holding acquiring a 51% share of Zambia's Mopani Copper Mines, and it being in advanced talks with South Africa's Public Investment Corporation to bolster mining in the country. Closer ties between the regions are helping bring much-needed investment and will be key to unlocking African mining's full potential. Ultimately, this trend promises growth and prosperity throughout the continent.
AFRICA TREND: Africa’s Green Investment Shift is Accelerating
Despite global venture capital slowdowns, Africa's green deals are thriving, making up 43% of venture capital activity in the first half of 2024. A USD 176M investment into d.light’s off-grid solar solutions across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda exemplify this momentum. The region’s energy transition is not only a business imperative but a developmental one—expanding access to over half a billion Africans who lack electricity.
UPCOMING EVENT: Critical Minerals Africa Summit 2024 | Cape Town, South Africa
Looking forward to seeing you at the Critical Minerals Africa Summit next week, from 6 to 7 November, at the CTICC in Cape Town.
The summit serves as the African critical minerals dealmaking space, standing at the intersection of energy and mining, linking global consumers and producers, and bringing global capital to African projects.
There is still time to purchase your ticket!
🔗 Book your delegate pass: https://bit.ly/3XVVVjl
🔗 For sponsorship, exhibition, and delegate inquiries, get in touch: https://bit.ly/3YcInRM
UPCOMING EVENT: Africa’s Green Economy Summit 2025 | Cape Town, South Africa
🚨 Early Bird Prices Now Available! 🚨
🌱 Secure your spot at Africa's Green Economy Summit 2025 with our exclusive early bird rates! This is your opportunity to join the continent’s leading event for sustainable development, green finance, and innovative environmental solutions at a reduced price.
Our early bird pricing is available until 1st December 2024, so don't miss out on the chance to engage with global thought leaders, explore groundbreaking projects, and network with key stakeholders shaping Africa’s green future. With over 60 projects and an investment pipeline of $3 billion, this event will be held in 2025!
🌍 Event Dates: 19th to 21st February 2025
📅 Pre-Con Day: 18th February 2025
🎯 Content pillars include: Green reforms, climate finance, resilient cities, green industrialisation, biodiversity, and nature.
🌿 Register HERE today and take advantage of early bird rates before they end!
To find out more about opportunities in Africa, please get in touch with Lynne Martin.
