Green Ammonia and E-Fertiliser in South Africa and the SADC Region

Currently, South Africa relies heavily on imported fossil fuel-based ammonia fertilisers, which are produced using energy- and emissions-intensive processes. However, South Africa is particularly well-positioned to leverage the growing interest and demand for green ammonia and e-fertiliser. The country is already a regional trade and production hub for nitrogenous fertiliser in the Southern African Development Community (SADC). In 2024, South Africa exported nitrogenous fertilisers to Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Botswana. In fact, almost half of the fertiliser imported into the SADC region arrives via South Africa, mostly via road and rail transport.

This study explores these opportunities for green ammonia and e-fertiliser production in South Africa for the domestic and regional SADC markets, and explores policy options for the increased production and consumption of e-fertiliser in South Africa.

The publication was launched in a webinar on July 24, 2025 with an ensuing panel discussion. The recording is accessible here.