PwC's 28th Annual Global CEO Survey: Sub-Saharan Africa perspective

Climate resilience

Women working on a sustainability project.

Publication
4 minute read
March 27, 2025

As we move through 2025, the global emphasis on climate and sustainability is intensifying, driving innovation and reshaping industries. In Sub-Saharan Africa, climate change significantly impacts agriculture, water resources and economic stability. Despite challenges like extreme weather vulnerability and limited adaptive capacity, there are substantial opportunities for growth through climate-smart investments.

Key insights from PwC’s 28th Annual Global CEO Survey include:

Over 50% of Sub-Saharan Africa CEOs are entering new sectors, boosting revenues.

Most CEOs view these investments as strategic opportunities, and 49% report minimal impact on business costs, with some seeing cost efficiencies.

32% of CEOs report increased revenue from climate-friendly investments, which also enhance brand reputation, customer loyalty and regulatory compliance.

Limited government incentives, regulatory complexity and lack of stakeholder demand are significant barriers. Despite this, 68% of CEOs link personal incentive compensation to sustainability metrics.

These insights highlight a proactive approach among Sub-Saharan Africa CEOs, who see climate action as a strategic opportunity. By investing in sustainable initiatives, they aim to mitigate risks, drive innovation and unlock new revenue streams, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to achieving long-term success in the face of climate change.

The climate seems to be right for investing

Most CEOs in Sub-Saharan Africa have initiated climate-friendly investments in the last five years. While 58% report little to no change in revenue, 32% have experienced a net increase in revenue from these investments.

49%

report little to no impact on overall business costs, with some seeing cost efficiencies.

While 58% report little to no change in revenue, 32% have experienced a net increase in revenue from these investments.

It’s not just about increasing revenues

Climate-friendly initiatives yield significant benefits beyond revenue, such as enhanced brand reputation, increased customer loyalty and improved regulatory compliance. These investments can attract further investment and financing, reduce supply chain disruptions and align with changing customer preferences.

Limited government incentives, regulatory complexity and lack of stakeholder demand curtail investment

Nearly 70% of Sub-Saharan Africa CEOs perceive little impact from government incentives. The primary reasons for not initiating climate-friendly investments include a perceived lack of demand from external stakeholders (45%) and regulatory complexity (43%).

68%

of regional CEOs tie a portion of their personal incentive compensation to sustainability metrics, demonstrating a mature approach to integrating climate goals.

What does this really mean?

Sub-Saharan Africa CEOs are increasingly recognising the importance of integrating climate-related risks and opportunities into their business strategies. Despite challenges, many leaders are proactively investing in climate-friendly initiatives to mitigate risks and unlock opportunities. For businesses that haven’t invested in these solutions, it is crucial to perform an analysis to understand potential impacts.

CEOs should work with their teams to understand the indirect impacts of these investments, including reputation, investor confidence and business continuity.

Next steps for businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa

Businesses must act now to integrate climate measures into their operations. Conduct a climate impact analysis, evaluate indirect impacts, align incentives and engage stakeholders to drive meaningful action and foster a culture of accountability and transparency.