As the global energy landscape rapidly evolves through digital transformation, Africa is emerging not merely as a participant but as a pioneering force in energy innovation.
On November 21, in Johannesburg at the Protea Hotel by Marriott, Balalaika Sandton, the G20 African Energy Investment Forum will bring together government officials, investors, and industry leaders to chart the continent’s path toward a smarter, cleaner energy future.
At the heart of the forum is the high-level panel discussion, “Investing in Africa’s Future Energy Mix,” which will explore how strategic public-private partnerships can propel Africa into the forefront of digital energy innovation. The conversation aims to unlock new opportunities for harnessing artificial intelligence, digitalization, and green technologies to expand energy access, build resilient infrastructure, and foster economic growth.
Leading voices like Nzan Ogbe, CEO of Levene Energy; Simon Karikari, CEO of Vodacom Mozambique; Stan Pillay, Regional Carbon and Innovation Lead at Anglo American; Nick Rowley, Managing Director of Green Asset Exchange; and Maxwell Msabala, Senior Manager of Nuclear New Build at Eskom Koeberg Nuclear Power Station will share insights on how Africa can leverage these technologies to develop the next generation of clean, intelligent energy systems.
A key focus will be on financing innovation—exploring how blended finance, green bonds, and carbon markets can catalyze investments in sustainable energy projects across the continent. Experts will discuss strategies to deepen digitalization for energy access, strengthen indigenous capacity in AI and data analytics, and develop green data centers that support economic growth while combating energy poverty.
As G20 nations emphasize sustainable development and inclusive growth, this forum offers Africa a critical platform to attract global capital, shape supportive policy frameworks, and position itself as a leader in the global energy transition.
“The G20 platform gives Africa the visibility and partnerships it needs to define its own energy future,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “By investing in digital innovation, AI, and clean technologies, we can ensure Africa is not left behind but instead leads the transition on our own terms.”
Aligned with the G20’s mission to promote climate resilience and inclusive development, the forum highlights Africa’s role as a hub of innovation and investment.
Its leadership in digitalization and clean energy will accelerate sustainable growth and help shape a more balanced, resilient, and environmentally responsible global energy future.