South Africa targets $118B at landmark investment conference

Africa, Business

AFRICA, 31 March 2026 (SA News Agency ) — The South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) has opened in Sandton, with the government targeting R2 trillion ($118B) in new commitments.

The Sandton Convention Centre is abuzz as delegates arrive for the sixth edition of SAIC, South Africa’s flagship platform to position itself as a credible, competitive investment destination. More than 1,200 delegates are expected, including Cabinet Ministers, business leaders and global investors.

Held under the theme ‘Invest. Partner. Prosper’, the conference brings together government, investors, development finance institutions and strategic partners to advance investment-led growth and strengthen South Africa’s role as a gateway into Africa. The event aligns with commitments made by President Cyril Ramaphosa in the 2026 State of the Nation Address, setting a more ambitious medium-term investment target.

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SAIC is structured to move from reform credibility to investor confidence, aligning domestic priorities with international interests. Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya noted that investment mobilisation is continuous, with international delegations recognising South Africa as a viable business destination.

The 2026 conference marks a shift from planning to implementation, as the government accelerates delivery on existing commitments. An additional R2 trillion in pledges is targeted over the next five years, building on R1.5 trillion secured at previous conferences, of which R600 billion has already been invested. These investments have supported new factories, mines and industrial facilities, contributing to job creation and poverty reduction.

Under the “3Ds” framework — Digitisation, Decarbonisation and Diversification — the conference highlights opportunities in technology, clean energy and expanded trade. It also launches South Africa’s Second Investment Drive, aligned with the priorities of the 7th Administration: inclusive growth, employment, infrastructure and reform.

Launched in 2018 by President Ramaphosa, SAIC has become central to attracting investors. The 2026 edition takes place amid improved confidence, supported by progress in structural reforms, enhanced energy reliability and broader recovery initiatives. – SAnews.gov.za