AFRICAN leaders have pledged to provide affordable and reliable electricity to 300 million people across the continent within five years. The ambitious commitment, known as the Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration, was unveiled during the Africa Energy Summit held at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre in Tanzania.
The summit, attended by 25 African heads of state and over 1,000 delegates, centred on ‘Mission 300,’ a campaign to tackle Africa’s energy deficit. Despite significant economic potential, 71 million people in Africa still lack access to electricity, hindering development and poverty alleviation efforts.
Tanzanian president leads call for action
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, hosting the summit, declared the initiative a turning point for the continent’s energy future. ‘This declaration is a commitment to deliver affordable, reliable electricity that will transform lives and economies,’ she said.
The plan prioritises investments in renewable energy sources such as solar and hydroelectric power while promoting private sector involvement. Leaders agreed to improve energy infrastructure, intro
duce supportive policies, and foster regional collaborations like the East African Power Pool.
Tanzania, a key player in the initiative, aims to boost its electricity generation capacity by 2,463 megawatts by 2030. Achieving this goal will require an estimated $13bn in funding, highlighting the scale of the challenge.
Major backing from development banks
The Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration has garnered strong financial backing, with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the World Bank pledging $40bn to support the initiative. AfDB President Dr Akinw
umi Adesina underscored the importance of universal energy access for economic transformation, stating, ‘Energy is the foundation for sustainable growth. Without it, Africa cannot thrive.’
Renewable energy at the forefront
The declaration outlines a comprehensive strategy to lower electricity costs, increase clean energy production, and reduce dependence on firewood, a major contributor to deforestation and health risks. Leaders also emphasised the importance of expanding access to rural areas, where the energy deficit is most pronounced.
Renewable energy projects, particularly in solar and hydroelectric power, are expected to play a crucial role in bridging the energy gap. The declaration envisions Africa as a global leader in sustainable energy, with the potential to export surplus power to other regions.
A brighter future for Africa
If successful, the Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration could transform the lives of millions by creating jobs, improving healthcare delivery, and boosting education through reliable electricity access. By addressing the continent’s energy deficit, Africa is taking a critical step toward achieving its development goals and enhancing its global competitiveness.
The Africa Energy Summit has set the stage for a collaborative and determined push to electrify the continent, offering hope for a brighter, more sustainable future for millions across Africa.
