South Africa has announced a new agreement with Germany aimed at strengthening cooperation in critical minerals and renewable energy, reflecting growing efforts to support the country’s energy transition.
South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said after talks in Berlin with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul that Germany has approved a €200 million concessional climate loan (about $234 million). The funding will support investment in South Africa’s electricity grid and expand renewable energy capacity.
Lamola added that both countries also agreed to extend German and European Union financing for green hydrogen projects and cooperation in battery value chains by more than €270 million.
The minister highlighted Germany’s continued support despite tensions in South Africa’s relations with the United States during President Donald Trump’s second term, which included diplomatic friction and criticism over domestic and foreign policy issues, as well as Washington’s decision to exclude South Africa from certain G20 engagements.
Lamola said South Africa “feels part of the G20 thanks to the support received from Germany and other member states,” underscoring the importance of international partnerships in maintaining the country’s global standing.