South Africa Showcases Reform Progress and Investment Opportunities at WEF Davos 2026

South Africa Arrives in Davos with Strong Reform Message

A high-level South African delegation has arrived in Davos, Switzerland, for the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2026, which runs from January 19 to 23, 2026. Led by Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana, the delegation aims to project a renewed image of economic stability, reform momentum, and investment readiness, positioning South Africa as a credible and attractive investment destination. The WEF Annual Meeting is convening under the theme 'A Spirit of Dialogue'.

Key Achievements and Structural Reforms Highlighted

The South African contingent is showcasing significant progress across various sectors, underscoring the country's commitment to economic recovery and growth. Key achievements being presented include:

• The stabilisation of electricity supply, with over 300 consecutive days without load shedding.
• South Africa's removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) greylist.
• An upgrade of the country's sovereign credit rating by S&P Global in November 2025, marking the first such improvement in nearly two decades.
• The European Union's decision to remove South Africa from its list of high-risk third country jurisdictions, effective January 29, 2026.

These developments are part of a broader structural reform agenda, known as Operation Vulindlela, which is unlocking bottlenecks across the economy. Reforms span critical areas such as energy, logistics, water infrastructure, digital communications, and support for small businesses. Notable progress includes a pipeline of 220 GW of private-sector renewable energy projects, with 72 GW in advanced stages, and digital reforms that have reduced data costs by 51%.

Showcasing Investment Potential and Regional Leadership

The delegation, which also includes Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola, Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille, Minister of Small Business Development Stella Tembisa Ndabeni, and Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau, is actively engaging with global business leaders and investors. They are presenting a pipeline of investment-ready infrastructure projects, such as the Gauteng-Durban high-speed rail, expansions at the Ports of Durban and Cape Town, and utility-scale solar farms, many of which have achieved 'ready-to-build' status. The country's presence at the forum, operating from 'South Africa House' at 49 Promenade, Davos, also emphasizes its role as a regional leader in Sub-Saharan Africa and its commitment to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). South Africa exported R571 billion worth of goods to the rest of the continent in 2024, and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange remains Africa's largest and most liquid capital market.

Strategic Engagement for Sustainable Growth

Through ministerial engagements, investment promotion activities, and targeted dialogues, Team South Africa aims to convert the forum's discussions into sustainable investments that will underpin the country's growth trajectory. The delegation's message is clear: South Africa is 'bold by nature, focused on delivery, and ready for global partnerships.' This strategic engagement at Davos is intended to reinforce macroeconomic stability, accelerate structural reforms, assert regional leadership, and forge partnerships that unlock investment and growth, ultimately aiming for inclusive and sustainable development.