In February 2025, Her Excellency Lerato Dorothy Mataboge assumed the role of African Union (AU) Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, marking a new chapter for the continent’s development ambitions under Agenda 2063. A seasoned South African trade, infrastructure, and investment expert, Mataboge now leads the AU’s Department of Infrastructure and Energy (DIE) at a critical time when Africa’s infrastructure, energy access, and digital transformation are pivotal to sustainable growth.
A Proven Track Record
Before her appointment to the AU Commission, Mataboge held the position of Deputy Director-General at South Africa’s Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic). She founded and led Trade Invest Africa, a platform designed to foster strategic partnerships between African governments and the private sector, specifically targeting trade and investment in infrastructure and energy.
Her diplomatic acumen was honed during her tenure as Minister: Economic at the South African Embassy in Washington, D.C., where she played a central role in facilitating U.S. investments into South Africa and championed the extension of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
With an active presence in multilateral forums — including BRICS, IORA, G20/B20, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) — Mataboge has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to Africa’s economic integration and global competitiveness.
Expanding Africa’s Infrastructure and Digital Landscape
As Commissioner, Mataboge’s portfolio is expansive, encompassing several flagship initiatives:
- The Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM): Aiming to liberalize air transport across the continent.
- The African Single Electricity Market (AfSEM): Facilitating integrated, reliable, and affordable electricity supply.
- The Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa: Accelerating the continent’s innovation and competitiveness in the global digital economy.
- The Integrated High-Speed Rail Network: Enhancing regional connectivity and trade.
- The Grand Inga Dam Project: Tapping into one of the world’s largest hydropower potentials.
- Cybersecurity and ICT Infrastructure Development: Building a secure and robust digital environment for African citizens and businesses.
Championing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)
In line with her commitment to digital transformation, Mataboge has become a significant voice in promoting Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) across Africa. DPI refers to foundational technology systems—such as digital identity, digital payments, and trusted data exchange—that enable essential services and markets to function efficiently.
Under her leadership, the AU’s infrastructure and energy agenda places strong emphasis on:
- Supporting member states in developing scalable DPI systems.
- Facilitating cross-border digital services, aligned with AfCFTA’s vision.
- Promoting secure, inclusive, and interoperable digital ecosystems to spur innovation, entrepreneurship, and socio-economic development.
Her approach recognizes that without robust DPI, Africa risks being left behind in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Mataboge is positioning the AU to ensure that Africa not only participates but leads in shaping future global digital norms.
Vision for the Future
Mataboge’s strategic goals are clear:
- Doubling Annual Infrastructure Investment: From the current $77 billion to $150 billion, through innovative financing and public-private partnerships.
- Accelerating Industrialization: By prioritizing energy access, regional connectivity, and digital readiness.
- Building Resilience: Ensuring that African infrastructure is sustainable, climate-resilient, and inclusive.
- Strengthening the African Union: Enhancing institutional capacity to coordinate, monitor, and deliver development programs effectively.
A Catalyst for African Self-Reliance
Through her leadership, Mataboge envisions an Africa that leverages its natural resources, youthful population, and technological innovations to become an integrated, self-sufficient continent. Her mandate is not just about laying physical roads, but about building the digital highways, energy corridors, and policy frameworks that will carry Africa into a prosperous future.
Her tenure represents a bold step forward — a commitment to bridge historical gaps, harness Africa’s vast potential, and establish a foundation for future generations to thrive.
