Faith Birol, the Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), addressed an assembly of global leaders in Rome at the ‘Partnering with Africa’ summit, underscoring Africa’s potential to take the helm as a global nexus for the clean energy revolution.
Acknowledging the paradox of the continent’s abundant natural resources standing in stark contrast to widespread energy poverty, Birol called for a revision of traditional strategies. According to him, two-thirds of the world’s population denied access to clean cooking facilities resides in Africa, the continent that also reports the lowest worldwide rate of electricity access.
Fundamentally addressing this disparity, he urged economically advantaged nations to invest in vital African energy infrastructure projects, primarily through a proposed model of effective public-private partnerships. Birol identified vulnerabilities in the existing model that leans heavily on foreign aid, warning it was an unsustainable long-term solution for delivering energy access.
Speaking to the assembled leaders, Birol highlighted: “No country has yet boosted growth, reduced poverty, and increased social outcomes without first securing widespread access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy. African energy investments can provide a high return with a high impact on economic growth and development.”
The executive director underscored the reciprocal benefits of investing in African energy. In addition to addressing energy poverty on the continent, such investments will assist in global efforts to contain rising temperatures through the proliferation of clean energy.
“Africa’s energy future is a matter of global urgency, not only on a climate level but also on a human level. With the right policies and investments today, it can be the continent of clean energy opportunities tomorrow,” stated Birol appositely.
‘Partnering with Africa’ is a convocation of forward-facing leaders who gather to explore and actualize partnership opportunities for bolstered economic growth and sustainable development in Africa. A key focal point this year was the development of a robust, sustainable energy infrastructure across the continent that can catalyze economic growth and elevate living standards.
In conclusion, Birol urged: “It’s time to reverse the vicious cycle of energy and economic poverty. It’s time to turn it into a virtuous cycle of energy prosperity.”
