During the Global Gateway Forum held in Brussels, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, announced a package of 618 million euros aimed at strengthening the energy transition in Africa.
The initiative is part of the Scaling up Renewables in Africa campaign, launched in 2024 with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during the G-20 Summit in Brazil.
“Africa has everything it needs to become a global leader in clean energy: vision, talent, and abundant natural resources,” von der Leyen stated.
Strategic projects in eight African countries
The European investment will be allocated to rural electrification, network modernization, and renewable storage.
Among the countries benefiting from the package are:
- Zambia-Tanzania: 30 million euros to strengthen the regional power corridor
- Cape Verde: 39 million to expand the wind farm and storage capacity of Cabeolica
- Uganda: 60 million for rural electrification, benefiting over 250,000 people
- Democratic Republic of the Congo: 90 million to electrify Kisangani and surrounding areas
- Mauritania: 125 million to develop a regional transmission corridor
- Togo: 199 million for a renewable energy and storage project in Kpalimé
The EU allocates 618 million to energy transition in eight African countries for clean energy
A continent with resources, but insufficient investment
Africa holds 60% of global solar potential but receives only 4% of global energy investment.
The International Energy Agency estimates that 600 million Africans live without access to electricity, and 1 billion cook with polluting methods, posing a direct threat to public health and the environment.
Keys to a fair and sustainable energy transition
Adequate financing, inclusive regulatory frameworks, and community participation are essential to avoid new inequalities. Taking the following measures is crucial:
- Investment and financing: public and private funds are needed for energy infrastructure
- Regulation: several countries are easing licenses and opening the market to independent producers
- Infrastructure: projects like the Gibe III dam in Ethiopia showcase regional integration potential
- Climate justice: it is crucial that the benefits and costs of the transition are distributed equitably
International cooperation as a driver of green development
The energy transition in Africa is an opportunity to industrialize with low emissions and improve quality of life.
The Scaling up Renewables in Africa campaign, coordinated by Global Citizen, aims to mobilize investments and raise global public awareness.
The strategy aims to build a clean energy future that combines economic development, environmental sustainability, and social equity.
