Key points:
- Power Africa, launched in 2013, aimed to expand electricity in Africa
- The US government has terminated most of its programs and staff
- Remaining initiatives may be restructured under different agencies
A MAJOR US initiative to expand electricity access across Africa has been dismantled by President Donald Trump’s administration, ending over a decade of investment in energy development, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday, citing sources familiar with the matter.
The Power Africa initiative, launched in 2013 under President Barack Obama, was designed to bring electricity to tens of millions of African households. However, according to Bloomberg’s report, nearly all programmes under Power Africa have been terminated, and most of its staff laid off.
Why the programme was shut down
Power Africa was operated under USAID, the US government’s international development agency. The move to end the initiative is reportedly part of a broader effort to cut federal spending, led by billionaire Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, according to Bloomberg News.
A State Department spokesperson told Bloomberg that the government is currently reviewing all foreign assistance programs to ensure they align with US national interests. ‘Programmes that serve our nation’s interests will continue. However, programs that aren’t aligned with our national interest will not,’ an official stated in response to Bloomberg’s inquiries.
Some elements of Power Africa, particularly those that connect African energy projects with US companies, may be absorbed into other US agencies. However, the majority of initiatives have been scrapped.
The impact of Power Africa’s termination
Since its launch in 2013, Power Africa had attracted billions of dollars in investment, aiming to increase electricity generation and expand energy infrastructure across Africa. The programme partnered with private investors, African governments, and international institutions to accelerate access to power.
With most of its programmes now dismantled, analysts warn that the withdrawal of US support could slow energy development efforts in regions still struggling with limited electricity access.
The State Department has yet to provide additional comments, and requests for clarification went unanswered, according to Bloomberg News.
As the US shifts its development priorities, the future of American engagement in Africa’s energy sector remains uncertain.
