SA Appoints New Climate Commission to Drive Data-Led Just Transition

The selection follows a public nomination process launched in August 2025, as required by the Climate Change Act.

 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the new cohort of 25 Commissioners who will serve on the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) for the 2026–2030 term, appointed under the Climate Change Act, 2024.

The new commissioners represent a cross-section of South African society — spanning business, labour, civil society, academia, traditional leadership, youth, and the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) — reinforcing the PCC’s mandate as a multi-stakeholder, evidence-driven climate governance body.

Diverse Expertise Anchored in Climate, Energy and Development

The Presidency said the commissioners bring expertise in:

• Climate and environmental policy

• Sustainable and economic development

• Energy transitions

• Social justice

• Just transition implementation

Appointments were made with explicit consideration for gender balance, youth representation, geographic diversity, and alignment with national transformation goals.

The selection follows a public nomination process launched in August 2025, as required by the Climate Change Act.

Continuity and Momentum for South Africa’s Just Transition

Established after the 2018 Presidential Jobs Summit, the PCC has been a central institution in guiding South Africa’s pathway to a low-carbon, climate-resilient, and equitable economy.

President Ramaphosa thanked the outgoing commissioners for their leadership in shaping:

• Domestic climate policy

• Just transition frameworks

• Inclusive national dialogue

• South Africa’s global climate diplomacy

He urged the new cohort to continue delivering independent, evidence-based advice, facilitate consensus-building, and accelerate implementation of the just transition framework.

The President will announce the Deputy Chairperson in the Commission’s first 2026 meeting, along with strategic priorities for the next five years.

Appointed Commissioners (2026–2030)

1. Dr Phindile Masangane

2. Dr Ntombifuthi Nxumalo

3. Ms Ndiambani Magadagela

4. Ms Shaamela Soobramoney

5. Dr Sarushen Pillay

6. Ms Catherine Constantinides

7. Ms Tracy-Lynn Field

8. Ms Khungeka Njobe

9. Ms Zaynab Sadan

10. Dr Dipak Patel

11. Dr Zwanani Titus Mathe

12. Cllr. Kenalemang Phukuntsi

13. Cllr. Dr Nasiphi Moya

14. Dr Moegamad Riedwaan Gallant

15. Mr Cecil Monnanyana Mahlangu

16. Queen Neo Mononelo Mopeli

17. Ms Thandile Zonke

18. Mr Errol Andile Mlambo

19. Prof Imraan Valodia

20. Prof Azwihangwisi Edward Nesamvuni

21. Ms Joanne Yawitch

22. Ms Boitumelo Molete

23. Mr Brandin Abdinor

24. Mr Waheed Hoosen

25. Ms Shamini Harrington

Call-to-Action: Opportunity for Climate-Tech Innovators

The new PCC term creates significant openings for:

• Carbon measurement and MRV platforms

• Transition finance tools

• Renewable energy optimisation technologies

• Climate adaptation analytics

• Emissions data modelling

• Early-warning climate systems

• Green skills development technologies

• ESG reporting and compliance automation

Startups, researchers, and industry leaders can collaborate with the PCC to develop scalable, evidence-based solutions that shape South Africa’s climate trajectory.

South Africa’s next transition phase will be data-intensive, innovation-driven, and implementation-focused—and early adopters now have a chance to help define the country’s climate and economic future.