Gauteng is poised to become a central hub for Africa's economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The province's economic strengths position it to lead in manufacturing, logistics, and innovation across the continent. Opinion leaders highlight the need for strategic initiatives to unlock this potential.
Africa's economic landscape is shifting toward greater integration, with the AfCFTA serving as a key framework. Signed by 54 countries, it targets a market of 1.3 billion people and could expand intra-African trade to US$3.4 trillion (R57 trillion) upon full implementation. Projections indicate that tariff reductions might boost trade in industrial goods and services by over 50%, fostering manufacturing and diversified exports beyond raw materials.
This aligns with Agenda 2063, emphasizing inclusive growth. Africa's nine fastest-growing economies, young population of 1.4 billion—projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050—and rapid urbanization, where over 70% of global urban growth will occur, drive demand in sectors like infrastructure, digital services, and green energy. Annual infrastructure needs stand at USD 170–210 billion, while the digital economy grows at more than 20% yearly. Emerging areas include electric vehicles, expanding from USD 15.6 billion to over USD 28 billion by 2030; digital payments surpassing USD 5 trillion; and tourism reaching USD 8 billion.
Gauteng, contributing 34% to South Africa's GDP and 40% of manufacturing, exported over R1.4 trillion to African markets from 2020 to 2024. It handles 55–60% of the nation's African exports and nearly half of foreign direct investment projects, attracting USD 45–50 billion continent-wide annually. The Gauteng Growth and Development Agency manages a R25 billion investment pipeline in advanced manufacturing, new energy vehicles, and digital services. The inaugural Gauteng Investment Conference secured R312 billion in pledges.
Challenges include regulatory hurdles, but initiatives like a One-Stop Shop aim to enhance predictability. Gauteng's strategy, 'Growing Africa Together 2030,' focuses on trade diplomacy with countries like Egypt, Morocco, and Nigeria, integrating small and medium enterprises into value chains. Authors Muzi Mathema and Sabelo Ndlangisa argue that Gauteng can anchor Africa's transformation into an industrial powerhouse.
Africa's growth is forecasted at 3.8% annually from 2026, outpacing South Africa's 1.5%, underscoring the province's pivotal role.