Environmental activists say greenwashing is becoming a major battleground in Africa's climate fight. As of March 2026, scrutiny is intensifying, with tighter legal frameworks and growing pressure on companies accused of overstating their environmental credentials. Much of that focus is on fossil fuel expansion and advertising campaigns that portray polluting industries as climate-friendly.
A new report by the Fossil Ad Ban campaign, part of Fossil Free South Africa, suggests some of the biggest energy companies operating in South Africa are spending heavily on advertising that highlights community projects and sustainability messaging while continuing to invest in fossil fuels. To unpack what the report reveals about greenwashing, influence, and climate accountability, Tsepiso Makwetla spoke to Lazola Kati, climate change activist and coordinator of the Fossil Ad Ban campaign