African leaders have pledged to deliver affordable electricity to 300 million people across the continent over the next five years.
The pledge was announced on Tuesday during the Africa Energy Summit held in Tanzania, according to the Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration seen by APA on Wednesday.
The summit highlighted the urgent need to address Africa’s energy deficit.
“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 across the continent.”
The summit committed to undertaking reforms and actions to expand access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to speed up economic growth, improve quality of life and drive job creation across the continent.
On the occasion, what are called “Mission 300 partners” pledged more than $50 billion in support of increasing energy access across Africa.
The summit, which was attended by 25 African presidents and 1,000 delegates, underscored the need to focus on investments in renewable energy, including solar and hydroelectric power and promised to improve infrastructure and implement policies to attract private sector involvement.
The Dar es Salaam Declaration also outlined strategies to lower electricity costs, reduce dependence on firewood, and boost clean energy production.
MG/jn/APA