Africa's Clean Energy Sector Shines Amid Decrease in Foreign Investment in 2023
Key Ideas
  • Foreign direct investment in Africa fell by 3% to $53 billion in 2023, with a significant portion allocated to the clean energy sector.
  • Despite the overall decrease in investment flows, Africa attracted global greenfield megaprojects, including a $34 billion green hydrogen project in Mauritania.
  • The continent received substantial project finance for wind, solar electricity production, and electric vehicle value chains, indicating a shift towards sustainable energy solutions.
  • Various subregions in Africa experienced fluctuations in FDI flows, with Central Africa showing a decline and East Africa indicating potential for growth in the coming years.
In 2023, foreign direct investment (FDI) flows to Africa decreased by 3% to $53 billion, as reported in the latest World Investment Report. Despite this overall decline, the clean energy sector emerged as a positive highlight, attracting significant investments. The continent saw a reduction in the value of international project finance deals, but it also welcomed a growing number of global greenfield megaprojects, with a notable $34 billion green hydrogen project in Mauritania. Additionally, Africa received over $10 billion in project finance for wind and solar electricity production, with major projects in Egypt, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. The region also witnessed investments in electric vehicle value chains, such as a $6.4-billion facility in Morocco. While FDI flows varied across subregions, Central Africa experienced a 17% decline, while West Africa saw a modest 1% decrease. In contrast, East Africa showed potential for growth despite a 3% dip in FDI inflows, with increased greenfield projects and project finance deals. Southern Africa faced fluctuations, with South Africa receiving lower investments. Overall, the report highlighted the resilience and attractiveness of Africa's clean energy sector amid a slight decrease in foreign investment.
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