Just Transition: South Africa Appoints 25 Climate Commissioners

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed 25 new members to the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) to serve for the 2026–2030 term, strengthening the country’s climate governance framework.

The PCC is a multi-stakeholder advisory body responsible for guiding South Africa’s transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy, with a focus on ensuring a just and inclusive transition.

The newly appointed commissioners include representatives from business, labour, civil society, traditional leadership, youth, and local government, reflecting a broad cross-section of South African society.

In a statement, the Presidency said the appointments were made with strong consideration for diversity in gender, age, geographic spread, and professional background, noting that the commissioners bring expertise in climate change, environmental policy, sustainable development, energy, economic development, and social justice.

President Ramaphosa commended the outgoing commissioners for their role in shaping domestic climate policy, fostering inclusive dialogue, and strengthening South Africa’s climate diplomacy.

He urged the incoming members to provide independent, evidence-based advice and to advance the country’s just transition framework as climate and energy challenges intensify.

The Presidential Climate Commission was established following the 2018 Presidential Jobs Summit, where social partners agreed to create a coordinated platform to guide South Africa’s climate and development transition.

Since then, the commission has played a central role in advising government on climate policy, balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability, and ensuring that vulnerable communities are included in the transition. Its mandate includes facilitating national consensus on climate and development issues, monitoring progress, and advising on strategies to meet South Africa’s international commitments under the Paris Agreement.

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