The MEC for Coghsta and Transport, Safety and Liaison, Bentley Vass, will serve as acting premier during Zamani Saul’s absence. Picture: Supplied
PREMIER Zamani Saul is leading a Northern Cape delegation on a working visit to Tokyo, Japan, from December 6-12, to showcase the Province’s green hydrogen project in Boegoebaai.
The delegation includes the MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, Venus Blennies-Magage, and the acting CEO of the Northern Cape Economic Development Agency (Nceda), Shawn Modise. They are part of a high-level group being led by the Minister for Electricity and Energy, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, and includes an Eastern Cape delegation led by Premier Cape Oscar Mabuyane.
Northern Cape Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs spokesperson Tebogo Monyo said the delegation would engage with key Japanese companies and institutions recognised as global leaders in infrastructure development, energy transition, and financing.
“These engagements align with the Northern Cape’s vision to position itself as a global hub for green hydrogen production, renewable energy, and industrial corridor development, particularly through the Boegoebaai project,” said Monyo.
He highlighted that key discussions included trade opportunities, technological partnerships and investment facilitation to support the Northern Cape Green Hydrogen Master Plan and broader industrial ambitions.
“The MEC for the Department of Coghsta and Transport, Safety and Liaison, Bentley Vass, will be the acting premier for the duration of the working visit,” Monyo added.
The Northern Cape is pivotal in South Africa's green hydrogen strategy, with flagship projects like the Boegoebaai Green Hydrogen Development Programme. This initiative plans to develop a green hydrogen and derivatives hub on the Province's west coast, targeting an initial 1.2 GW electrolyser capacity by 2028, scaling up to 5 GW by 2035, and reaching between 10 GW and 20 GW by 2050.
The Boegoebaai project is expected to capitalise on the Northern Cape's abundant solar and wind resources, producing competitively priced green hydrogen and ammonia for international markets, including Japan. The development includes plans for a deep-water port and a Special Economic Zone to facilitate export activities.
The Northern Cape's commitment to green hydrogen positions it as a leader in South Africa's energy transition, aiming to contribute significantly to the country's goal of achieving a 40 GW electrolysis capacity by 2050.