The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a $474.6 million loan to South Africa aimed at upgrading the country’s transport and energy infrastructure.
This funding, based on Reuters report, marks the second major infrastructure loan extended to South Africa in recent weeks, following a $1.5 billion agreement with the World Bank in June.
According to the AfDB, the loan will support efforts to improve energy efficiency, overhaul the struggling rail network, and implement broader infrastructure reforms.
South Africa has long faced persistent growth challenges due to rolling blackouts, deteriorating rail systems, and congested ports—conditions that have hindered key sectors such as mining and automotive manufacturing.
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The AfDB loan forms part of a larger international financing package designed to support South Africa’s infrastructure recovery.
In addition to the World Bank’s contribution, the package includes €500 million from Germany’s KfW development bank, up to $200 million from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and $150 million from the OPEC Fund for International Development.
These coordinated efforts underscore the growing international commitment to help revitalize Africa’s most industrialized economy amid ongoing structural challenges.
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