Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, met with the Chief Executive Officer of ADNOC Distribution, Eng. Bader Saeed Al Lamki, and his delegation on 13 July 2026 following the company’s announcement of its proposed USD 1 billion investment in South Africa through the acquisition of Shell Downstream South Africa, subject to the necessary regulatory approvals.
The high-level engagement reflects the growing strategic economic partnership between South Africa and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and underscores investor confidence in South Africa as a key destination for international investment.
Strengthening South Africa-UAE Economic Cooperation
During the meeting, Minister Lamola and the ADNOC Distribution delegation discussed opportunities to deepen bilateral economic cooperation and expand long-term investment between South Africa and the UAE.
The discussions highlighted ADNOC Distribution’s long-term investment strategy in South Africa, with particular emphasis on supporting the country’s evolving energy sector while contributing to sustainable economic development.
The engagement forms part of South Africa’s broader efforts to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), strengthen international partnerships, and promote inclusive economic growth.
Supporting South Africa’s Energy Transition
A key focus of the discussions was South Africa’s energy transition and the opportunities available for investment in emerging energy infrastructure.
ADNOC Distribution expressed interest in supporting the country’s transition through potential investments in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, aligning with its long-term strategy to diversify energy solutions and contribute to cleaner mobility across South Africa.
Such investments are expected to complement South Africa’s efforts to modernise its energy landscape while enhancing sustainable transport infrastructure.
Commitment to Localisation and Inclusive Growth
Minister Lamola welcomed ADNOC Distribution’s commitment to localisation, including plans to promote Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) participation and employee ownership as part of its investment approach.
He encouraged the company to continue exploring opportunities that will contribute to:
- Economic growth
- Job creation
- Skills development
- Increased local participation in the energy sector
- Expanded investment across South Africa
The Minister also emphasised South Africa’s strategic position as a gateway to African markets, highlighting the country’s advanced infrastructure, financial sector, and regional trade connections.
Boosting Foreign Investment in South Africa
The proposed acquisition of Shell Downstream South Africa represents one of the most significant recent investment announcements in the country’s energy sector.
If approved by the relevant regulatory authorities, the transaction is expected to reinforce South Africa’s attractiveness as an investment destination while strengthening commercial relations between South Africa and the UAE.
The meeting reaffirmed both parties’ commitment to expanding economic cooperation, promoting sustainable investment, and supporting South Africa’s long-term development objectives through strategic international partnerships.
