South Africa could provide a destination for UK firms seeking an alternative to depleted North Sea reserves, one of the country’s most senior law figures has claimed.
Noor Kapdi, managing partner of KapdiTwala, says the country offers a “distinct opportunity” for established energy companies looking to get a foothold on sub-Saharan Africa.
Kapdi has closely worked with the Aberdeen petroleum market for the last 10 years, providing advice on South African investment to such companies as Weatherford, FMC Technologies, Expro and Tullow.
“What we have seen happening in Aberdeen, we’ve grown fantastic companies, really excellent capabilities – the next question is: where do we take those companies in order to grow these businesses? My proposition is that South Africa presents such a base from which to work in Africa,” Kapdi said.
“Southern African region is the fastest growing regional economy in Africa and, indeed, the second fastest in the world – second only to China. So it would probably be the best place to start considering your investment,” he added.
Watch our exclusive interview with Noor Kapdi below.