In a historic commitment, African leaders pledged Tuesday to provide affordable electricity to 300 million people across the continent within the next five years.
The announcement was made during the Africa Energy Summit at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Center in Dar es Salaam. This declaration, named the Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration, seeks to tackle Africa’s pressing energy deficit.
Leaders from 25 African nations gathered with over 1,000 delegates, highlighting the urgent need to address the continent’s electricity shortages through the “Mission 300” initiative. At present, 71 million people remain without access to electricity, hindering economic growth across the region.
“This declaration represents a turning point for Africa’s energy future,” said Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan. “We are committed to delivering affordable, reliable electricity to transform lives and economies.”
The declaration focuses on boosting investments in renewable energy sources, particularly solar and hydroelectric power. Leaders also pledged to enhance infrastructure and introduce policies to encourage private sector participation in the energy sector.
Tanzania, a leading player in the East African Power Pool, plans to expand electricity production by 2,463 megawatts by 2030. The ambitious plan requires $13 billion in funding, with $40 billion in backing from the African Development Bank and the World Bank.
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, emphasized that universal energy access is key to Africa’s economic transformation. The declaration aims to reduce electricity costs, cut dependence on firewood, and increase clean energy production, paving the way for a sustainable future.
