Cape town: President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on participants at the Africa Energy Indaba to use the platform to unite to realize an 'Africa that meets its needs for reliable and cost-effective energy'. The annual indaba, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, brings together the continent's energy leaders, policymakers, investors, and development partners to advance energy security, regional integration, and investment across the continent.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of the indaba as an opportunity to harness collective efforts towards achieving energy security and sustainability in Africa. He pointed out the continent's abundant natural resources that hold immense potential for energy generation, despite the prevailing energy poverty. The International Energy Agency notes that approximately 600 million Africans lack access to electricity, leading to lost production, interrupted services, and constrained investment opportunities.
In addressing these challenges, President Ramaphosa proposed the development of an energy system that connects Africa internally and supports collective economic growth. This vision aligns with the African Union's Agenda 2063, which emphasizes the importance of modern infrastructure and integrated energy systems for the continent's development. The President highlighted the Ten-Year Africa Energy Infrastructure Investment Plan, initiated under South Africa's G20 Presidency, as a crucial step toward realizing this vision.
He acknowledged the need for a coherent pipeline of bankable investments, supported by credible institutions and partnerships, to meet Africa's energy demands. While public finance alone cannot fulfill the continent's infrastructure needs, it can play a catalytic role in project preparation and risk reduction.
The indaba is taking place amidst volatile global energy markets, with the continent already feeling the impact of conflicts in the Middle East, leading to strained supply chains and higher energy prices. The President noted that these challenges underscore the need for regional and continental energy security and diversification, positioning the indaba as a timely and strategic opportunity.
President Ramaphosa expressed confidence in Africa's ability to succeed, given its resources, people, and growing institutions. He called for unity and partnerships to shift from potential to delivery, translating plans into projects and ensuring reliable power to support industry and jobs. The President concluded with optimism, stating that the indaba would strengthen cooperation, accelerate investment, and contribute to building energy systems that support Africa's promising future.