From policy to progress: UN deputy chief Mohammed outlines path for Africa’s clean energy transformation

“Access to electricity is not just a matter of convenience; it is a fundamental human right that underpins economic growth, education, healthcare, and gender equality,” Ms. Mohammed told African Heads of State attending the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.  

The Summit brought together African leaders and development partners to discuss Mission 300, an initiative by the African Development Bank and the World Bank. The initiative addresses energy access challenges and aims to create jobs for Africa's youth and support future development.

“We must work together, with a sense of urgency and commitment, to ensure that no one is left behind in this transformative journey,” Ms. Mohammed, stressed.

Africa’s energy landscape presents a paradox. Despite being rich in renewable resources, the continent grapples with one of the lowest levels of energy access globally. As the UN deputy chief pointed out, nearly 600 million Africans lack access to electricity, making it essential to leverage the continent’s abundant renewable energy resources and critical minerals.

Unlocking Africa’s potential

“Africa has immense potential to show the world what a new economic development paradigm grounded in sustainability, resilience, justice, and inclusivity can look like,” Ms. Mohammed stated, and underscored the interconnectedness of enhanced energy access with broader development goals, such as health, education, and gender equality.

“By advancing long-term energy security and sovereignty, we can foster peace, create green jobs, and build resilient livelihoods – paving the way for improved stability and prosperity across the continent,” she said.

She highlighted that with renewable energy now being the cheapest source of new electricity, the Mission 300 initiative represents a transformative opportunity for Africa.

A shining example: Tanzania’s progress

Ms. Mohammed praised Tanzania as a beacon of success, showcasing how rural electrification and off-grid renewable energy solutions can transform lives, particularly in remote and underserved areas.  

“The country has made remarkable strides, with electricity access increasing from just 14 per cent in 2011 to 46 per cent in 2022,” she noted. This progress has led to over one million new connections, driving the rural electrification rate to 72 per cent.

“This progress means that more boys and girls in remote areas can now study in well-lit classrooms, health workers can deliver life-saving services to off-grid populations, and rural businesses can thrive with reliable power,” said the UN deputy chief, emphasizing that energy access is not just about electricity – it’s about opportunity, equity, and the foundation of a brighter future.

Policies and reforms for transforming African energy

In a panel discussion that was held Monday on the theme Policies and Reforms for Transforming African Energy, Ms. Mohammed reiterated the need for comprehensive reforms to accelerate electrification across the continent. She stressed the role of renewable energy in driving sustainable development and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

“Africa is rich in renewable energy resources, from solar and wind to hydro and geothermal power,” she said. “By harnessing these resources, we can not only provide electricity to millions but also create green jobs, improve health outcomes, and protect the environment.”

The Deputy Secretary-General highlighted three key areas for policymakers to focus on: fostering policy coherence, mobilizing finance and support, and enhancing transparent international cooperation.

Fostering policy coherence

Ms. Mohammed underscored the importance of coherent and aligned policies with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), the individual climate action plans submitted by each country under the Paris Agreement.  

“Policy makers and the international institutions need to strive to ensure sector-wide plans are coherent and aligned with the achievement of the SDGs due in 2030, while investors need robust regulatory laws in place to ensure business can operate aligned with them,” she stressed.

She added that “NDCs must coordinate the transition from fossil fuels with scaling of renewables and grid modernization and expansion, ensuring energy security and affordability.”  

Ms. Mohammed also emphasized that NDCs represent a unique opportunity for all countries to align their new climate plans and energy strategies, together with addressing adaptation needs.

Mobilizing finance and support

While private sector investments are crucial, Ms. Mohammed stressed the importance of public financing, especially in modernizing grid infrastructure to expand access and integrate renewables. “Blending concessional public funds with commercial funds can help multiply renewable energy investments in developing countries,” she noted.

“We must work to strengthen the health of Africa’s public finances and tackle unsustainable debt burdens that are crowding out essential public investments,” the UN deputy chief added, calling for long-term concessional finance and the implementation of the $1.3 trillion roadmap agreed last year at the UN climate conference in Baku.

Transparent international cooperation

Ms. Mohammed went on to emphasize the importance of international investments and cross-border partnerships in delivering electricity projects at a massive scale. “Public private partnerships need to be subject to stable and transparent public procurement rules throughout the whole project cycle,” she said.

“Transparency and accountability should be a hallmark of Mission 300 and set a new standard for cooperation across the continent,” she concluded.

African Heads of State commit to energy reforms

The summit saw African Heads of State commit to concrete reforms and actions to expand access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity. The Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration, endorsed by the summit, outlines the commitments and practical actions needed to achieve the Mission 300 goals.

“Today, we have taken a significant step towards transforming Africa's energy landscape,” said President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania. “By working together and implementing these reforms, we can ensure that our citizens have access to clean and affordable energy, which is essential for their well-being and economic prosperity.”

Africa can lead clean energy transition

In her closing remarks, Ms. Mohammed expressed optimism about Africa's potential to lead the global clean energy transition.  

“With the right policies and reforms, Africa can become a model for sustainable development and resilience,” she said. “Let us seize this opportunity to create a brighter future for our continent and its people.” 

This article was first published by UN News.