South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to deliver the keynote address at a Landmark ceremony on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, when the Republic formally signs its Instrument of Accession to the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank) Establishment Agreement, signalling its transition to Class A Shareholder status in the pan‑African multilateral financial institution.
The signing event, to be held in Johannesburg, marks a strategic deepening of South Africa’s partnership with Afreximbank — a pivotal player in financing intra‑African and extra‑African trade, industrial development and economic integration — and reflects Pretoria’s commitment to industrial
competitiveness, export‑led growth and broader continental trade integration.
Sovereign membership is expected to unlock more competitive trade finance, expanded funding Under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and opportunities for South African companies, commercial banks and state‑owned enterprises, while fostering greater cooperation with other African
financial institutions.
In his address, Ramaphosa is anticipated to outline the nation’s vision for industrialisation, export diversification, decarbonisation and digitisation, and affirm South Africa’s role in advancing Africa’s economic integration in alignment with Afreximbank’s strategic mandate. The ceremony will be
attended by senior government officials, members of the Afreximbank Board and management, industry leaders and diplomatic representatives.