Deputy Minister to Open Africa’s Premier Sustainability Summit in Johannesburg

South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environmental Affairs, Bernice Swarts, will open the fifth annual Sustainability Summit Africa on 16 September 2025 at the Indaba Hotel, Johannesburg.

Hosted in partnership with Deloitte and forming part of the Smart Procurement World Indaba, the event is recognised as Africa’s leading environmental, social and governance (ESG) platform. Under the 2025 theme “Global Goals, Local Impact”, the summit will explore how global sustainability targets can be translated into actionable, African-specific solutions.

Local Solutions for Global Sustainability Goals

According to Smart Procurement CEO Debbie Tagg, the ESG agenda must be tailored to Africa’s unique socio-economic, geopolitical, and environmental realities. “We cannot simply cut and paste globalised ESG frameworks into African situations,” she says. “We need strategies that address local challenges and opportunities, building resilience and creating value for communities.”

The programme will feature thought-provoking keynotes, panel discussions, and case studies covering:

• Renewable energy and net-zero transitions.
• Climate-resilient agriculture and food security.
• Sustainable transport and e-mobility.
• Green manufacturing and industrial decarbonisation.
• Innovative financing for the green economy.

Energy Transition in Focus

The opening keynote by Raksha Sunderlall, Head Advisor on Sustainability at Sasol, will examine South Africa’s policy landscape for energy transition, the scaling of renewable energy to meet national emission targets, and the socio-economic opportunities linked to a low-carbon future.

A high-level panel will explore the role of solar, wind, and hydro in replacing coal, policy incentives for energy producers and consumers, and the balance between energy security and decarbonisation.

Practical Insights and Real-World Case Studies

Delegates will benefit from tangible examples, including:

• Water-wise farming and sustainable land use.
• Electric and hydrogen-powered transport innovations.
• Energy-efficient manufacturing and mining technologies.
• Green bonds and blended finance models for sustainable growth.

Go Green Zone: Showcasing Sustainable Innovation

The Go Green Zone exhibition will spotlight eco-friendly procurement and innovation, with solutions ranging from alternative energy sources to waste reduction strategies. It offers a platform for suppliers, innovators, and experts to connect with decision-makers committed to sustainable transformation.