South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is in Côte d’Ivoire this week for a high-level Working Visit, where he will take part in the 12th Africa CEO Forum, an annual gathering of the continent’s top business and political leaders.
Hosted in Abidjan on 12–13 May, the Forum will explore the evolving relationship between governments and the private sector under the theme: “Can a New Deal Between State and Private Sector Deliver the Continent a Winning Hand?” This year’s edition focuses on how collaboration between public and private institutions can unlock Africa’s development goals through infrastructure and industrial expansion.
Ramaphosa’s visit, made at the invitation of Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara, comes at a time when South Africa is strengthening its diplomatic and economic footprint across West Africa. Officials say the trip aims to deepen bilateral relations and promote South Africa as a prime destination for investment, especially as the country prepares to assume the G20 Presidency.
Côte d’Ivoire, a strategic partner for Pretoria, has become a focal point for South African companies seeking opportunities in the region. Firms such as MTN, Multichoice, Sanlam, Nedbank, Absa, Rand Merchant Bank, and Investec have all established operations in the country, reflecting a growing economic bond between the two nations.
High-level engagement between the two governments has intensified in recent years. Ramaphosa paid a State Visit to Abidjan in December 2021, followed by Ouattara’s official visit to Pretoria in July 2022. Both leaders have since reaffirmed commitments to expand cooperation in sectors such as finance, energy, and aviation.
Alongside his participation in the Forum, Ramaphosa will attend a special “Invest South Africa” session organised by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition in partnership with Brand South Africa. The event, held on the sidelines of the summit, is expected to highlight investment-ready sectors and showcase South Africa’s role as a regional economic anchor.
The President is accompanied by two key ministers: Gwede Mantashe, Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, and Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity and Energy. Their presence signals Pretoria’s intention to engage in substantive dialogue around energy policy, investment, and regional cooperation in infrastructure development.
The Africa CEO Forum has grown into one of the most influential business events on the continent. Since its launch, it has provided a platform for senior executives, policymakers, and financiers to forge partnerships, exchange ideas, and shape the economic future of Africa.
As the continent pushes toward deeper economic integration and structural transformation, Ramaphosa’s trip signals South Africa’s readiness to play a leading role in driving collaborative solutions for Africa’s development.