In a bold step toward redefining Africa’s energy and agricultural future, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has been appointed sole financial adviser to the R31.5-billion SUISO coal-to-fertiliser project. This landmark partnership signals growing international confidence in South Africa’s capacity to lead a just energy transition that fosters job creation, food security, and green industrialisation.
A Game-Changer for Fertiliser Production in Africa
Set to begin construction in 2026 and launch operations by 2029, SUISO is poised to become one of Africa’s most advanced nitrogen fertiliser plants, with a capacity of 1.5 million tons of urea annually. This will replace 1.2 million tons of imported urea, reducing dependency on global supply chains and strengthening South Africa’s economic sovereignty.
Currently, the continent has only five fertiliser plants serving over a billion people. SUISO addresses this gap while saving foreign exchange and providing import-parity pricing for local farmers.
Global Partnerships, African Leadership
The project has already secured global collaboration:
- Engineering by Sinopec Ningbo Engineering, a Fortune 500 company
- Production licensing from Stamicarbon
- Collaboration with the Council for Geoscience to map critical minerals and explore carbon storage
These partnerships, combined with Afreximbank’s capital mobilisation and advisory role, place SUISO on solid footing for delivery and international investment.
“The appointment of Afreximbank is not only a financial mandate — it’s a global vote of confidence in South Africa’s capacity to lead a just energy transition,” said Paul Erskine, SUISO founder.
A Just Transition for Mpumalanga
With South Africa’s coal sector employing over 90,000 people, the project offers a sustainable reinvention model. Communities in Mpumalanga, historically reliant on coal, stand to benefit from:
- 4,000 construction jobs
- 981 permanent roles
- The Gerhard Potgieter Engineering Training College, which will upskill 400 workers for a green economy
Future-Facing Technology Meets Policy Compliance
SUISO plans to use advanced gasification and hydrogen synthesis to produce zero-sulphur blue methanol, aligning with the country’s 2027 Fuel Act. It’s also assessing the feasibility of powering the plant through a 15-year renewable energy agreement, reinforcing its low-carbon credentials.
A Blueprint for African Industrial Growth
The appointment of Afreximbank cements SUISO’s status as more than just a fertiliser plant—it is a continental benchmark for innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development. As construction nears, SUISO is expected to catalyse investment, boost industrial capacity, and anchor South Africa’s leadership in green transformation and agro-industrial development.
