An injustice burns at the heart of the climate crisis: Africa accounts for just four percent of global emissions, but it suffers some of the worst effects of climate change.
In Nairobi this week, I renewed my call for the world to step up climate action, keep global promises to provide essential support and help Africa make a just and equitable transition to renewable energy.
I’m convinced that Africa can be a world leader in renewable energy and green growth.
This continent is home to 30 percent of the mineral reserves that are critical to renewable and low-carbon technologies, like solar power, electric vehicles, and battery storage.
To truly benefit all Africans, we must not repeat the mistakes of the past. The production and trade of these critical minerals must be sustainable, transparent, and just, with maximum added value produced in African countries.
Africa is also home to 60 percent of the world’s best solar resources — but only two percent of global investments in renewable energy over the last two decades.
Now is the time to bring together African countries with developed countries, financial institutions, and technology companies to create a true African Renewable Energy Alliance.
Renewables are already powering economies in the continent. Over 85 percent of electricity generation in the Greater Horn of Africa comes from renewables. Mozambique gets nearly 100 percent of its energy from green and sustainable sources. These efforts must be supported, strengthened, and scaled up.
With adequate access to financial resources at a reasonable cost and technological support, renewables could dramatically boost economies, grow new industries, create jobs, and drive development.
Let’s make Africa a renewable energy superpower.
