World Bank Approves USD 1.5 Billion Loan to South Africa for Infrastructure and Green Energy Transition

The World Bank has approved a USD 1.5 billion loan for South Africa to enhance its transportation infrastructure and support its shift towards a low-carbon economy, according to the country's National Treasury. South Africa's rail systems, congested ports, and frequent power outages have been major obstacles for key industries like mining and automotive manufacturing, slowing economic growth over the past decade.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and his coalition government are committed to addressing corruption and poor management that have plagued the country for years. They aim to implement reforms to boost the economy and reduce the high unemployment rate. The government anticipates that the World Bank loan will promote inclusive economic growth and job creation by alleviating infrastructure bottlenecks, particularly in energy and freight transportation sectors.

World Bank Loan Conditions

The National Treasury stated, "This agreement reinforces the strong and constructive collaboration between the World Bank and the government of South Africa." It marks an important step in tackling South Africa's economic challenges of low growth and high unemployment. The loan offers more favourable terms than traditional borrowing, including a three-year grace period, which should help lower rising debt-service costs.

South Africa's budget for 2025-26 has earmarked over R1 trillion for essential infrastructure projects in transportation, energy, water, and sanitation over the next three years. This investment aims to improve access to basic services. However, due to a worsening global outlook and persistent logistics issues, the Finance Ministry revised the real GDP growth forecast for 2025 down to 1.4% from an earlier estimate of 1.9% made in March.

Economic Challenges and Budget Allocations

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana noted that government debt is expected to stabilize at 77.4% of GDP by 2025/26. Earlier this year, South Africa faced a significant funding shortfall when the Trump administration dismantled USAID, cutting around USD 436 million annually for HIV treatment and prevention programs. This cut jeopardized thousands of healthcare jobs and support for one of the world's largest HIV-positive populations.

Godongwana highlighted that South Africa lacks the resources to cover the over USD 430 million gap left by these foreign aid cuts. The reduction in funding threatens the extensive network supporting HIV-positive individuals in the country.

The World Bank loan is seen as a crucial step towards addressing South Africa's pressing economic issues while providing much-needed relief in infrastructure development. The partnership between the World Bank and South Africa aims to foster sustainable growth and improve living conditions across the nation.

With inputs from PTI