The African continent’s vast energy-related resources have the potential to forge a prosperous path for the continent.
This is according to Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa’s written notes for his address at the African Energy Week (AEW), which is underway at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
AEW brings together Africa’s leaders in energy, investors and executives in the sector.
“Africa’s path forward lies in seizing control of our energy destiny. Our continent’s vast resources, rich potential, and resilience make us capable not just of fueling our homes and industries but of powering a new African century.
“But this will require unity of purpose, a commitment to innovation, and a collective resolve to harness Africa’s energy to serve African needs,” Ramokgopa said.
Powering the future
The Minister insisted that the continent – despite its challenges, including energy poverty – has the “potential to lead the world in renewable energy and innovative energy solutions”.
“Africa’s potential for renewable energy is unmatched globally. The continent is rich in diverse renewable resources, each offering a path toward sustainable growth that is less dependent on fossil fuels and more aligned with global climate commitments,” Ramokgopa said.
Going further, the Minister cited the number of renewable energy sources available to the continent including solar and wind energy and hydropower.
“With vast stretches of land bathed in sunlight year-round, Africa has some of the highest solar irradiation levels in the world, especially across regions in the Sahara and Sub-Saharan Africa. Solar energy has the potential to power communities, businesses, and industrial zones, especially in off-grid and rural areas.
“From the coastal winds of Egypt to the strong inland gusts in Kenya and Ethiopia, Africa’s wind corridors hold immense potential for generating clean electricity. Expanding wind energy capacity offers not only a path to sustainability but also an opportunity for job creation in turbine manufacturing and maintenance.
“Africa has significant untapped potential, especially in countries with major rivers, such as the Congo, Nile, and Zambezi. Hydropower projects, when sustainably managed, can provide baseload power to support industrialisation and rural electrification, helping reduce energy costs for industries,” the Minister explained.
African Energy Agenda
Ramokgopa told the conference that as South Africa takes up its leadership of the G20 later this year, it is “positioned to champion Africa’s energy priorities on a global platform”.
“South Africa will advocate for energy policies that bridge the development gap, recognising the continent’s need for clean energy and affordable access. In leading the G20, South Africa will focus on strategic interventions to address Africa’s unique energy needs and support a resilient, inclusive future,” he said.
In relation to this, Ramokgopa emphasised that solutions to Africa’s energy challenges must “accelerate sustainable growth, while considering African economies’ unique challenges”.
“Through our G20 leadership, South Africa is committed to championing an African energy agenda that is bold, just, and rooted in an African value system. Together, let us light up Africa with power and the promise of progress, sovereignty, and sustainable prosperity for every African citizen.
“As South Africa leads the G20, we are dedicated to championing an African energy agenda that addresses our challenges, harnesses our resources, and reflects our vision for self-reliance and prosperity.
“Let us seize this moment to build an energy secure Africa, where every community is empowered, every economy is strengthened, and our shared commitment to the future is unwavering. Together, we can light up Africa not just with power, but with the promise of a brighter, more equitable future for all,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za
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