The newly established South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC) has announced its plans to stabilize operations and enhance the country’s energy security by reducing reliance on imported petroleum products.

Formed through the merger of three state-owned entities—PetroSA, the Strategic Fuel Fund (SFF), and the Central Energy Fund’s petroleum assets—SANPC aims to become a leading energy champion in Southern Africa. The company was officially launched at a media briefing where assets and funding worth 5 billion rand were transferred to begin operations.

SANPC CEO Godfrey Moagi emphasized the company’s mandate to secure energy supply while expanding regional partnerships. “We’re building a champion that will operate across Southern Africa, including Namibia, Mozambique, Angola, and the DRC,” he said. The company will focus on optimizing resources, improving governance, and addressing legacy challenges from the merged entities.

Initially, 402 employees from the three legacy organizations have been integrated into SANPC, with plans to transition remaining staff and assets in phases. Moagi stressed the importance of stabilizing operations before pursuing growth, ensuring no “leakages” in governance or efficiency.

The move comes as South Africa seeks to strengthen its energy independence and secure sustainable fuel supplies. SANPC will also explore partnerships to revive dormant assets, such as the Mossel Bay gas-to-liquid (GTL) refinery.

As the company takes its first steps, stakeholders will be watching closely to see if it can deliver on its promise of a more secure and efficient energy future for South Africa.