African countries are leveraging policy reform to strengthen their respective investment environments, seeking to address market challenges such as capital limitations and low energy access. Implemented policies in 2024 set the continent up for accelerated energy growth in 2025 and beyond.
Namibia: National Upstream Local Content Policy
Namibia’s Cabinet approved the National Upstream Local Content Policy in December 2024. The policy aims to enhance local capacity development while facilitating greater participation by Namibian companies in the upstream oil and gas sector. The policy seeks to integrate Namibian businesses and workers into the emerging oil and gas value chain, from exploration and production to service delivery and technology provision. Specifically, the policy requires oil operators to submit detailed ‘Local Content Plans’ when applying for licenses. These plans outline commitments related to hiring, service provision and training.
Angola: Incremental Production Initiative
Angola introduced its Incremental Production Decree in November 2024 to facilitate new investments in mature oil and gas blocks. The law introduces special incentives encouraging reinvestment in producing assets, including a specialized legal and tax framework. The decree aligns with Angola’s strategy to maintain production above one million barrels per day through 2027.
Mauritania: Hydrogen Code
Mauritania’s Parliament approved its Hydrogen Code in September 2024 to attract investments and expedite its green hydrogen economy. Developed in partnership with the European Union, the code aims to lower investment risks within the sector and position the country as a green hydrogen hub for regional and international markets. Mauritania plans to produce 12.5 million tons of green hydrogen per annum by 2035 through the deployment of large-scale projects with global players including Conjuncta, CWP and Chariot.
South Africa: Electricity Regulation Amendment Act
South Africa signed its Electricity Regulation Amendment Act into law in August 2024 to bolster the competitiveness of the electricity market. The law targets a reduction in electricity costs, an increase in electricity generation and transmission investments and the expedition of industry liberalization. The country will use the law to create a new and fully independent Transmission System Operator within five years and a new market code to oversee the competitiveness of the sector.
Zambia: Electricity (Open Access) Regulations
Zambia adopted the Electricity (Open Access) Regulations in July 2024 to diversify its energy sector and address supply challenges. The law empowers independent power producers to bypass state utility the Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation and sell electricity directly to consumers. Energy regulator the Energy Regulation Board will grant firms with licenses to develop and operate projects with a minimum of 1 MW. The policy aims to address hydropower generation constraints due to low rainfall experienced in southern Africa over the past two years.
