The Vice President, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, expressed deep concern that despite Africa’s vast oil and gas resources, a significant portion of the continent’s population lacks access to electricity.
She made this statement at the 2nd Africa Energy Technology Conference in Accra, which was themed “Innovate, Invest, and Implement: Revolutionized Financing for Sustainable Energy Sector in Africa.”
The 3-day conference aimed to drive Africa’s energy transformation by providing a platform for policymakers, investors, and industry players to discuss financing and technology opportunities in the energy sector. The key objectives included:
Innovation in Technology by exploring new technologies and innovations in the energy sector to enhance efficiency and sustainability
Attracting diverse investment through discussing new financial mechanisms to attract investment in energy projects and stimulate economic growth
It will also discuss effective implementation by ensuring effective implementation of energy projects across the continent to achieve tangible results
Speaking on behalf of the Vice President, Dr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofu emphasized that the conference provides a valuable platform for collaboration and reflection towards a future that is energy-secured and sustainable, with African leadership at the helm.
He noted that Africa is not energy-poor, but rather energy-rich, with abundant sunlight, powerful rivers, critical minerals, and natural resources.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Nigeria, -Ekperikpe Ekpo highlighted that Africa is at a critical juncture in its energy development, striving to advance large-scale energy projects while reducing carbon emissions.
He emphasized the need for greater investment across the energy value chain to unlock Africa’s energy potential.
Deputy Managing Director of Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) Olakunle Osobu, suggested that Africa could employ Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accelerate development, focusing on affordable and reliable energy and leveraging AI-driven technology.
He noted that Africa could derive significant benefits from the digital economy, with the potential to generate around $18 billion in revenue.
The conference underscored the need for Africa to harness its energy resources to drive economic growth and development.
With over 600 million people living without access to electricity and 900 million people living without access to clean cooking solutions, the continent requires significant investment in the energy sector. By leveraging innovation, technology, and intra-African collaboration, Africa can unlock its energy potential and create a brighter future for its people.
The conference emphasized the importance of African-led solutions and sustainable energy development to achieve a prosperous and energy-secured future for the continent.
Godfred Sey/ Ahotoronline.com
